The Way of Tea and Greetings
Repeating the traditional forms.
Through them, I come to know myself in each moment.
The Way of Tea
The Way of Tea has traditional forms that have been passed down through generations.
Taking up the bamboo ladle, handling the tea bowl, walking across the tatami.
As we carefully repeat each movement according to these forms, we may become aware of movements within ourselves — such as haste, hesitation, or tension — that often go unnoticed in everyday life.
Even when we repeat the same tea preparation, who we are in each moment is never quite the same.
The traditional forms are not merely a means of making our movements appear graceful. They also offer us time to encounter ourselves as we are in the present moment.
For me, the Way of Tea is not simply about learning traditional procedures. It is also a path toward coming to know myself.
In the tea room, there are seasonal flowers, hanging scrolls, and carefully chosen utensils.
Considering the weather, the season, and the guests we welcome when selecting and arranging the utensils is inseparable from the act of preparing tea.
The host's state of mind is reflected in each movement and every arrangement.
Host and guests come together, quietly receiving the care and consideration expressed by one another.
I believe that this shared moment is also an essential part of the Way of Tea.
A cup of tea
Things that connect
What We Value at Senshinan
At Senshinan, we cherish the spirit of the Omotesenke tradition of tea.
Beyond acquiring techniques and traditional skills, we value the time spent coming to know ourselves through the practice of tea, while maintaining a quiet and welcoming atmosphere.
As we continue our practice and deepen our understanding of the Way of Tea, the boundary between time spent in the tea room and everyday life gradually becomes less distinct.
The movements practiced in the tea room and the ordinary activities of daily life are no longer separate. They become part of one continuous Way of Tea.
I feel that this, too, is part of the profound depth of tea practice.
Those who are new to tea ceremony are warmly welcome.
It is my hope that the Way of Tea may bring a gentle light into your everyday life.
A Greeting from the Head Teacher
I teach the Omotesenke tradition of Japanese tea ceremony.
In our lessons, while learning traditional procedures and the handling of tea utensils, I also value what each person encounters within themselves in that moment.
The same words do not necessarily have the same effect on everyone.
I hope to offer guidance with care, attentive to each person and what is needed in that particular moment.
Whether you are beginning your journey in tea ceremony or have been practicing for many years, each person follows their own path.
It would be my pleasure to share moments of stillness with you and accompany you along that path.