"Make a delicious bowl of tea: Lay out the wood charcoal to heat the water. Arrange the flowers as they are in the fields. In summer evoke coolness; in winter, warmth. Anticipate the time for everything. Be prepared for rain. Show the greatest attention to your guests." Sen Rikyu (1533-1591), Seven Rules of Tea. Tea Health      Tea is very healthy for you to drink on a daily basis. Tea contains antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Antioxidants include flavanoids, polyphenols and catechins; components which help protect against disease, by helping to repair damaged cells and keep cells healthy. Among the many health benefits, the antioxidants can protect against heart disease, by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. Research shows that drinking at least 4-5 cups per day may lower high blood pressure and cholesterol.       Antioxidants also protect cells against cancer. Free radicals can attack healthy cells causing damage and disease such as cancer. Drinking tea can help protect against free radicals.      Polyphenols contains small amounts of trace elements such as Magnesium, Manganese, Foliate, Potassium and Phosphorous. The tannins in tea are a flavanoid as well as an antioxidant. Tea also contains an amino acid called theanine, which helps with delaying the aging process, fight against viral and bacterial infections and helps the digestive and excretory systems.      Polyphenols contains small amounts of trace elements such as Magnesium, Manganese, Foliate, Potassium and Phosphorous. The tannins in tea are a flavanoid as well as an antioxidant. Tea also contains an amino acid called theanine, which helps with delaying the aging process, fight against viral and bacterial infections and helps the digestive and excretory systems.      Tea is comforting and soothing to one’s body and spirit, especially when dealing with stressful life events. Stress is damaging to one's body when not dealt with in a healthy and effective manner. The body needs antioxidants in which to keep the immune system healthy. Antioxidants also are contained within fruits and vegetables, nuts, healthy oils such as fish oils. Studies show that drinking tea everyday along with a healthy diet rich in antioxidants can guard against disease.      One cup of tea contains 30-50 mg of caffeine as compared to one cup of coffee which contains approximately 115mg of caffeine. Keep in mind that black tea contains a little more caffeine than green tea, and some teas contain very little caffeine. Decaffeinated tea is also an option.      Red tea, also called Rooibos, is caffeine free, and contains anti allergy properties, can relieve stomach upset, and has Alpha Hydroxyl Acid, which is soothing for the skin. Rooibos is excellent for nursing mothers as well.      Oolong Teas contain antioxidants, are low in caffeine, and are soothing and refreshing, white teas have the most antioxidants. Oolong teas are also found to reduce weight, and carry anti allergy and anti-inflammatory properties as well. White teas carry the most antioxidants as they are the less processed of the teas. Rejuvenate with black, green, white, oolong and red teas.        Drink your teas and enjoy the little things of life; sip your tea in a pretty garden or sit in a shop surrounded by happy people and beautiful teapots. Beauty surrounds us in so many forms. May beauty surround you and yours, always.  Note: Always check with your physician regarding your individual health.