I Did Not Expect That
As part of my wellness evolution, I have been reflecting on what brings me joy. It’s a part of health that people often overlook. It’s easy to focus on all the “must-dos” for health, but we forget to do the things that make us happy. Like I said before, I am focused on finding a good balance.
One of my favorite pastimes is attending afternoon tea. I love the ritual of the experience, and no two teas are ever quite the same. They range from formal to casual, and everything in between. I’ve had afternoon tea in historic homes, in fancy hotels like the Fairmont Empress and even at The Wolseley in England, where the desserts had edible gold and a high price tag.
I have been to whimsical tea rooms with a figure of Alice’s feet dangling from the Wonderland rabbit hole and Moaning Myrtle popping out of the wall in the Harry Potter themed bathroom. It was weird stepping into the stall and seeing part of a mannequin dressed in wizard robes. The walls also included instructions on how to “flush” yourself into the Ministry of Magic. Creative, but not exactly my cup of tea, every pun intended. I have also been in lovely English-style gardens and tea rooms that feel like a sweet grandmother’s house, all of them special in their own way.
The Best of the Best
Some of my best tea experiences were in surprising places. After climbing the 528 uneven steps to the Golden Gallery in St. Paul’s Cathedral, I had afternoon tea under the cathedral, not too far from the crypt. I was tempted to order one of the many cocktails on the menu, but it felt strange doing so in a church. My best friend and I even found ourselves enjoying afternoon tea at London’s Heathrow Airport as we were heading home. It may have been an “end of vacation” high, but I still think about that tea.
One of my absolute favorite tea rooms is a simple, local place that feels like a cozy little cottage. It is run by a British woman I have known for years, who reminds me of my grandmother. She’s kind and charming with a wicked sense of humor. She serves simple British tea with traditional sandwiches, and many of the items she uses in her kitchen are from the UK and are for sale in her shop. I visit her at least once a month and have even donned an apron to work in the tea room. Although I will admit, I love having afternoon tea more than I love serving it! 😀
My friends and family know I make it my mission to find an afternoon tea experience on every trip I take. I am always sad when I can’t. It doesn’t happen often, but it sometimes does. I’ve had tea in international places like Canada and Bermuda, and in almost every state I have visited. I’ve even hosted a few tea parties myself, including a “Quarentea” during the pandemic.
Finding Joy… in a Teacup
So why write a whole post about afternoon tea? Because it brings a smile to my face. It makes me happy and is a beloved pastime. When I go to tea, I can focus on my emotional and social health. It gives me time to relax, be calm, and take a break from my busy, neurodivergent mind.
There’s just something about a hot cup of sugary, milky tea and a scone slathered with cream and jam. It doesn’t have to be fancy, even though that’s nice too! I love enjoying small bites and lively conversation with friends without rushing, just taking the time to enjoy each other and the surroundings. Sometimes, some of my best tea experiences are just with my best friend, where we don’t even need to talk. We just eat tasty food, sip warm tea and enjoy being together.
Now, after all this talk of afternoon tea, I think I’ll make a reservation and take some time to focus on my well-being and find some joy. What about you? What activities bring you joy? If you need an idea, how about a cup of tea and a scone!
What a lovely tribute to tea. I love tea parties as well.
There is just something about a tea party! I always loved when you would bring some of your leftover tea party scones to share at the office too.