So, I wanted to share with you my favorite way to slow down and de-stress when a short break is needed. It is calming, easy, inexpensive, and can be done alone or with a friend. Are you at all curious about my secret de-stressor? Okay now, donÂ’t laugh. ItÂ’s sitting down for a nice, hot cup of tea! Tea is wonderfully relaxing, and I invite you to read through the following information designed to help you get the most out of your tea break.

The habit of a tea break has a long history dating back to the 1700Â’s in England. A duchess is credited with starting the tradition in order to subdue her hunger between meals, and I can certainly relate to needing a little pick-me-up between lunch and dinner! Having tea can be as elaborate as setting out fine china and finger sandwiches, or as simple as indulging in your favorite mug and some cookies or crackers. What is important is not the method, but the memories you will create as you share teatime with others. How many of you fondly remember childhood days of tea parties with favorite friends or stuffed animals and the carefree intensity that would go into the event? Well, taking time for tea may just bring back some of those wonderful feelings to rejuvenate you for the rest of your day!

Several years ago, my daughter Sara Beth and I started the tradition of having tea together when she arrived home from school. We had about 30 minutes before her younger little sister came home from school, so I decided to take the opportunity to devote that time just to her. That was four years ago, and even though both girls now come home together, Sara Beth and I have continued our tea tradition. Some days we have great conversations, and some days we donÂ’t talk much at all, but we are building lasting memories together that I know we will both treasure. After spending the day working on my business, I find myself really looking forward to our time together and the opportunity to focus on my kids.

Here are some tips for brewing a great cup of tea:

-Start with fresh, cold water in your teakettle.

-Add a teaspoon per cup of whole leaf tea to your teapot and when the water has just started to boil, pour it into the teapot.

-Let the tea steep for 3-5 minutes, then pour through a small strainer and enjoy with a little sugar or milk.

Tea shops are popping up in many towns and most of them carry whole leaf tea. If you have never experienced whole leaf tea, please try it; it makes a noticeable difference in the flavor of the tea. Comparing grocery store bagged tea to whole leaf tea is like comparing instant coffee to StarbuckÂ’s! The difference is noticeable and worth the extra time and effort it may take to purchase fine tea.

I think most people, and especially women, would agree that we spend too much time in the “hurry” mode and not enough time enjoying the present. So why not give teatime a try? Treat yourself (and hopefully a friend or two) to some relaxing moments appreciating what I consider some of the finer things in life: good tea, good relationships, and good memories. I’d love to hear your stories!

About the Author

Karen Deuschle is a work from home mother of 3 and an avid reader who lives in the Pittsburgh area. She loves to garden, spend time with friends, and host tea parties. After 20 years she left the nursing industry to start her own business and she is having a wonderful time! To learn more about her please visit her website at . http://www.scentsablelight.com .