Tea has been part of my wellness ritual for years. I grew up in a household, especially during visits to my grandparents, where afternoon tea was common, particularly on a chilly day. I also grew up watching lots of British television where characters had high tea set in English decadence, so perhaps that was a subconscious influence to my tea adventures. But what truly hooked me was a television interview with Hilary Swank circa 1990’s. When she spoke during the interview, she addressed her wellness journey combined with drinking green tea. I remember feeling moved by her message, her poise, and her beauty. From that moment on, I was inspired to add green tea to my daily routine. I was a teen at the time, but I was very aware of health and wellness due to my parents and grandparents’ values on healthcare. And today, 20-plus years later, I am still enjoying a daily cup of green tea.
As I type this post, I am literally sipping a cup of Yogi Tea. I love this brand for its wide variety of blends and perhaps most of all, the small affirmations printed on each tea bag. Sometimes, the message feels like it was written just for me. These little reminders have become part of my wellness routine, a soft and grounding voice in the middle of whatever my day may hold. Today’s affirmation says, “One who knows how to enjoy life does not need riches.” So, true that is!
As someone committed to realistic mindfulness, I enjoy tea not just for its warmth, but for its emotional benefits. Certain blends genuinely help me reset, breathe deeper, and feel more like myself, one sip at a time.
Below are five Yogi teas that are always on hand in my pantry:
Green Tea (Positive Energy or Super Antioxidant Blends)
While technically not an herbal tea, green tea, especially in Yogi’s emotional support blends, offer a glimmer of balance. I turn to their Positive Energy or Super Antioxidant mixes when I need a gentle boost without the intensity of coffee. The L-theanine property helps sooth the soul. But a huge proponent of green tea is that it helps flush the gut after a filling meal and relieves gastro discomfort.
Comforting Chamomile
Yogi’s Comforting Chamomile is a calming staple in my tea cabinet. I often reach for it at night when I need a little moment of chill time before bed. The aroma of chamomile helps me quiet the mind and prepare for rest. A very simple, but effective tea for downtime.
Honey Lavender Stress Relief
This tea is one of my emotional reset staples. This blend combines the calming power of lavender with a hint of honey to soften the moment. Much like Chamomile tea, I will pick this blend in the evening accompanied with a book or while sitting by the fireplace. The aroma is very gentle and encourages me to do a few rounds of mindful breathing while stretching my neck and shoulders.
Relaxed Mind
When I feel a tad overstimulated or need a “chill out” sesh, I reach for Relaxed Mind. This tea has lavender, sage and peppermint that magically calms the active brain. I often joke that this blend is a meditation class in a cup of tea. So, whether I am journaling or sitting in stillness, this tea helps me return to a quieter mental space from a busy day.
Peach Detox
Yogi’s Peach Detox is a favorite when I need a gentle internal refresh. I reach for this blend when I want to feel lighter. The peachy aroma and taste are both refreshing and rejuvenating, especially after a large meal. Similar to green tea, this blend help support my wellness goals and offers gentle ease for those with a delicate stomach.
Each of the teas mentioned are part of my realistic mindfulness practice. I do not always have time for a long meditations or an hour of yoga class, but I can usually find the time for a cup of tea in a quiet setting or with spa music in the background. So much of emotional wellness is about coming home to yourself in small, meaningful ways, that are simple and realistic. For me, that begins with making a cup of tea and giving myself permission to slow down without guilt. Side note, tea, while yum for the mind and body, is also de-hydrating, so be sure to drink a cup of water an hour or so afterwards.
Mindfully curated by Debra Gudema for Well&Co.
📸: Alex P