Today’s Tea
Spring Base · Cold Spring
We're 5 days past the shift to Summer, but the weather still carries Spring patterns. We're holding the Spring base while applying the current solar term's guidance on top.
Steep for 10–15 minutes in hot water (not boiling — about 185–195°F). Can be resteeped 2–3 times.
The calendar says Spring, but winter's chill is still lingering in the air. Your body is caught between wanting to open up and still needing to stay warm — a common tension this time of year. Today marks 立夏 (lì xià) — the Beginning of Summer. Your body's energy is expanding outward now, fully committed to the warm season. The heart and circulation become the systems to watch.
It's only 56°F — cooler than your body expects for this time of year. When cold catches you off guard, your surface tightens up and your circulation can feel constrained. A little gentle warmth goes a long way.
So today's tea leans on fresh ginger (shēng jiāng) and perilla leaf (zǐ sū yè) — gently warms your body's surface and helps release the tight, contracted feeling that cold and wind create. The base is green tea (lǜ chá), which is cooling and lightly bitter — it helps clear heat without being harsh on your digestion.
- iced drinks
- excessive cooling herbs
- overdressing once weather warms
- suppressing mild exterior release
- overheating
- emotional overexcitement
- overeating
- excessive spicy foods