I will now talk about 2 things that I like, and in which I found some similarities: tea and Bowen therapy :)
In no way do I want to put 2 ceremonies with such different importance on the same level, not least because the tea ceremony served as an inspiration to various movements and cultures.But it is undeniable that both on a physical and psychological level there are some similar benefits, also sharing the philosophy that favors time and reflection.
Tea has been considered a therapy for many centuries, and even with medicinal effects.On a physiological level, it regulates temperature and the body, and has antioxidants that bring benefits to various body organs; On a psychological level, it regulates the central nervous system, with its stimulating and calming properties.In addition to the drink itself, the act of preparing tea has its own philosophy that invites you to pause and reflect, where you discover sensations, change your mood and can think more clearly.
And even the infusion temperatures and times have their balance according to the tea we want to prepare.
A basic rule of the masters to prepare tea correctly was the following:
1- boil water;
2- prepare the tea;
3- drink/taste the tea.
Whether it's a creative block or a tense situation, there are visible benefits in just a few minutes. Time seems to pass in a different way, at the rhythm of a tea leaf floating in hot water.
In Bowen therapy I was able to find the following similarities:
- Regulates the organism, both physically and psychologically, by acting on certain organs and at the level of the nervous system;
- Privileges the break time for the body's recovery/regeneration;
- In Bowen therapy, the preparation is adapted to each person, according to their situation, in the same way that each type of tea requires a different preparation of temperature and time (safeguarding the complexities of each subject);
- the way of appreciating also has similarities, as there are rituals and recommendations to follow: a greater awareness of sensations leads to the creation of new habits. And if there are those who like it hotter/colderer, stronger/weaker, sweeter/bitter, Bowen therapy also recommends that the person adapt their daily activity to what they like.
And deep down, both fit more into the category of well-being and lifestyle than medicine or cure. They make us feel good every day and learnto live better with our body and with what surrounds us :)
When in doubt about something, before Googling it, stop and have a cup of tea... (and/or book a Bowen therapy session where you can have a free cup of tea :))
Reference: 'El arte de llevar una vida creativa' - Frank Berzbach
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