About a year ago (maybe longer), I decided that I would make an effort to not just gulp down my daily cups of tea without a second though. That instead, I would enjoy the simple pleasure of sipping said brew from my growing stockpile of vintage teacups and pretty mugs. It was an act in patience and intentional slowing down more than anything else. Much of my life feels like it is about maximizing, rushing, and deadlines (real or imagined), so of course a diminutive cup of tea isn't always as practical as a giant mug-full is...but it is, I've found, a lot more enjoyable. I challenge you to try it and see for yourself just how much more pleasurable those sips of tea become when they are drunk from something more than your ordinary mug.
As a wee gift to myself, I recently added a lovely little vessel by KevinOsheaDesigns to my teacup shelf and it alone has taken my love of tea to new levels (I didn't even know that was possible). I love the hand-drawn elements and it has such a wonderful feeling of glossy earthiness (not sure if that even makes sense) while pressed inside my palm. Do you have any small pleasures that take the rush out of your day and help to bring more enjoyment to your life? I'd love to know. xo Ez