The search for perfection in a teacup
I have to admit – I discovered tea quite recently. A few years ago, when I tasted properly prepared green tea brought from Japan by friends, when I felt that unexpected sweet umami taste in my mouth and an inner peace that flooded me and gave me energy, I realized that I had found it. I found a new passion – Japanese tea, which brought me to Japan, introduced me to the rich history of tea, its drinking culture, and its perfectly imperfect aesthetics, and all of this paved the way for me to find myself.
My passion for Japanese tea is more than just a fascination with the drink. It is my journey from struggling to enjoy tea to discovering a full-fledged passion for it, it is my journey through the flavors, aromas and subtleties of Japanese tea growing and production, its history and culture. It is a search for balance, peace and time for myself.
When I decided that the name of our imported Japanese tea would include the Japanese word ikigai , a Japanese friend of mine said: “ ikigai ? – I know this word is difficult to translate into other languages, but I’m sure – a brand that conveys the spirit of ikigai through tea is truly amazing!”
I'll try to explain what it means - Ikigai is those few things: a huge drive to do what you are good at, what brings you great satisfaction, what is needed in the world, and what gives your life meaning.
IKIGAI TEA was born from this philosophy – I believe that daily rituals can give meaning, and making tea is one way to find peace, enjoy the moment, and strengthen our connection with ourselves. Let's create our own personal ikigai experience with each cup.
Yolanda,
Founder of IKIGAI TEA, GJTeA certified Japanese tea master