A Morning Ritual: Starting Your Day with Tea

My dears,

There is something undeniably grounding about starting the day with a cup of tea. As the world stirs awake, and the sun begins its slow rise, taking a moment to sip tea invites a quiet pause—an act of self-care before the day unfolds. For me, a warm cup of Earl Grey tea, softened with a splash of milk and a drizzle of honey, is as much a ritual as it is a comfort.

Tea has long been a cherished morning companion for some of history’s most iconic figures. Queen Elizabeth II herself began her mornings with Earl Grey, accompanied by biscuits—a tradition as timeless as the monarchy. Whether you prefer the citrusy notes of Earl Grey or the spicy notes of a Chai Latte, tea is a versatile and elegant way to greet the day.

Choosing the Perfect Tea for Your Morning

At The Mayfair Hall, we offer a selection of teas that transform a simple morning cup into an experience. Here are a few favorites:

• Earl Grey Supreme by Harney & Sons
  A refined blend of black tea and bergamot, perfect with milk and honey. This classic tea is my personal favorite and a delightful nod to tradition.

• Hot Cinnamon Spice by Harney & Sons
  For those who enjoy a bit of warmth, this tea combines black tea with sweet and spicy cinnamon notes.

• English Breakfast by Harney & Sons
  Bold and full-bodied, this tea is an ideal way to energize your morning.

Elevating Your Tea Ritual: Cups and Mugs

A beautiful cup adds another layer of joy to your tea ritual. I believe that the vessel matters just as much as the tea itself.

• For Elegance: The Vista Alegre Domo Gold teacup exudes sophistication with its delicate gilded rim. Perfect for those mornings when you want to feel a little extra.
• For Heritage: The Vista Alegre Paco Real tea set carries a timeless charm that pairs beautifully with the tradition of tea drinking.
• For Everyday Comfort: A well-crafted mug, such as the Green Cabbage Mug by Bordallo Pinheiro, adds coziness to your morning.

The Proper Way to Make Tea

Perfect tea is about patience and precision. Here’s how I prepare my morning cup:

1. Warm the Teapot or Mug
   Pour a little boiling water into your teapot or mug to warm it. Discard the water before adding your tea.

2. Measure Your Tea
   Use one teaspoon of loose-leaf tea (or one teabag) per cup. For stronger tea, add an extra spoonful “for the pot.”

3. Boil the Water
   Use freshly drawn water and bring it to a boil. For black teas like Earl Grey, allow the water to reach a rolling boil; for delicate green or white teas, cool the water slightly before pouring.

4. Steep with Care
   Pour the hot water over the tea and steep for 3–5 minutes, depending on the tea’s instructions. Resist the urge to rush—good tea takes time.

5. Add Your Touches
   For Earl Grey, I add a splash of milk and a touch of honey for balance. Lemon, sugar, or no additions at all can also suit your mood.

6. Enjoy Slowly
   Hold your cup, breathe in the aroma, and savor each sip. This is your moment.

The Benefits of a Morning Tea Ritual

Starting your day with tea is more than just a habit; it’s a chance to reflect and reset. Tea encourages mindfulness, offering a quiet moment to breathe, plan (I have my Filofax with me), or simply enjoy the present. Studies show that teas like green tea are rich in antioxidants, while chamomile and other herbal blends can reduce stress.

For me, tea is a reminder to approach the day with intention and grace, to savor the beauty in small rituals, and to always leave room for a moment of peace.

Whether it’s the bold flavor of English Breakfast, the citrusy sophistication of Earl Grey, or a calming herbal infusion, let your morning tea become a treasured part of your routine. Explore our collection of teas and teacups at The Mayfair Hall to find your perfect match.

Here’s to mornings filled with warmth, beauty, and intention,
Mrs. Mayfair