What is the story with Matcha and is it really better for us?
I go through these phases of where I try to switch out coffee for a healthier alternative. One of my switches tends to be matcha. It took me a little time to get used to it and to figure out how i most enjoyed it but one thing is for sure is that it has many benefits.
The ritual of Matcha
I love a good ritual and matcha provides just that. It isn’t just a bang in the cup and go type of drink and that has all the more draw for me – a person who is constantly looking at what is next in the day. The preparation or what I should say is the recommended preparation of matcha takes some time. A really great article is at the following link: https://keichamatcha.com/blogs/tea-news/how-to-prepare-matcha
In Japanese culture, the making of (matcha) tea requires patience and respect. Whilst the western world has most definitely left much of the ritual behind, there are a few steps easily built in that help to bring that pause to your day. When making matcha, it is made with a bamboo whisk known as a chasen. Taking the extra time to whisk the matcha helps to blend and bring a smoother flavour. When done correctly, this takes a little time. Then the hot water is poured in slowly and whisked. Traditionally it is served without milk but the modern day world has made it popular to match with your preferred plant milk.
Taking a break away from the day
The earthy feel to matcha and the time that goes into its preparation is a good signal to allow yourself the time (and break from life!) it deserves to sit and enjoy. The preparation is all about the ritual. A matcha is at its best when you have a little time to stop and take a break from the world.
Plentiful health benefits
It is likely by now that you have heard bits about how this drink offers many health benefits. Matcha provides antioxidants may help to prevent cell damage and lower the risk of several chronic diseases. There are an amount of studies on how it boosts brain function.
What does it replace
This all depends on how you use matcha. You might end up adding it into your day on top of your other choice beverages however a great option is to maybe use it to replace coffee given it can reduce the crash that can follow caffeine. This is due to L-theanine, a compound which matcha contains, which alters the effects of caffeine allowing for less of a crash.
Calmer
There are studies that show matcha reduces stress. Anything that even possibly helps with this perks my interest. For me, it is all in the preparation and break away from the regular run of events that helps bring a sense of calm. Obviously, if you are under pressure there is nothing that will bring the calm but if you do have a few minutes to focus on your matcha and disconnect from all around you then it will certainly help.
Conclusion
Matcha has been around since the 12th century and can bring a lot to our lives. Like all great traditions, we have probably overlooked the best aspects of it with the passing of time but it definitely stands true that it is a great way to switch some of our coffees (that cause many of us jitters and that feared anxious feelings) out and sub in something with a little more added benefits. The benefits of matcha are certainly food for thought when we look to reach for our next cup of joe!
