Not only is it scientifically proven that some teas have a profound effect on physical health , it is also suggested that tea drinking will also help benefit mental health and wellbeing . Charity Samaritans , who provide emotional support to anyone in emotional distress , struggling to cope , or at risk of suicide throughout Great Britain and Ireland , have embraced tea and its benefits in a new campaign for January . Brew Monday 2022 ( www . samaritans . org / support-us / campaign / brew-monday ) will kick off on 17th January , the third Monday of the month , which is usually known as ‘ Blue Monday ’ and thought to be the hardest day of the year for many . ‘ We ’ ll be turning this day on its head and into something positive by encouraging people to get together over a warming virtual cuppa ’ says the charity , ‘ We are asking people to reach out to a friend , family member or colleague for a virtual brew and a chat . It doesn ’ t have to be a Monday or a cup of tea , just taking the time to really listen to another person could help them work through what ’ s on their mind .’
Of course , like most farmed commodities that are sought after in such bulk , tea does come with its price . Ethically sourced , fairtrade and sustainable tea is something all of us strive for when it comes to selecting our brew , no matter how we take it . A pioneer and shining example in this quest for more responsibly sourced tea is in fact a Kent native , Mr Ames ( www . mramestea . com ). Hand-packed in Kent , Mr Ames not only helps to provide jobs in the local community , but are most proud of their commitment to the ethical sourcing of ingredients from caring growers all around the world , with a keen eye on sustainability . Ethical sourcing is only the beginning for Mr . Ames too , with their tea coming in pyramids that are 100 % compostable as well as recyclable packaging . ‘ The flavour really is what counts ’ says the company , which was founded over 100 years ago in 1909 , by the original Mr . Ames himself . ‘ It is the small pleasures in life that make all the difference . A cup of our tea adds wonderful value to the everyday , and Mr Ames teas are loaded with flavour and created with the least impact on ourstunning planet , so that drinkers can really relish every sip ’ says the Tonbridgebased company .
Whether you are taking in afternoon tea at The Ritz , sampling a herbal remedy to give yourself a health kick , or simply crafting a honest cuppa to go alongside a biscuit , there is no denying that tea provides us with ultimate comfort and makes whatever situation we might find ourselves in that little bit more bearable , or , to quote the Twinings advert that has now stuck with me for over ten years since I first heard these words , ‘ helps you get back to you ’. So put the kettle on , sit back , and as you take that first sip , rejoice in the journey tea has taken all the way from Emperor Shen Nung ’ s tree , to the court of Catherine of Braganza through English history right up to the spirit of the Blitz and beyond , ending up right here in your cup – your own unique , brew .
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