In celebration of International Tea Day, the Chinese Embassy in Singapore brought together guests for a tranquil evening of traditional tea rituals, mindfulness, and cultural exchange through the Shen Shi Tea Ceremony.
Singapore, 9 May 2025 – The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Singapore commemorated International Tea Day with the “Tea For Harmony Yaji Culture Salon,” featuring the elegant Shen Shi Tea Ceremony. The event, held at the Embassy, blended centuries-old tea traditions with mindful breathing practices, highlighting the meditative and cultural richness of Chinese tea culture.
Distinguished guests from diplomatic circles, cultural institutions, and the local community gathered to experience a serene and immersive programme. A guided breathing and posture exercise began the ceremony, inviting participants to relax their bodies and centre their minds—a rare moment of calm in a bustling city. Attendees followed instructions to align their spine, position their hands gently, and adopt abdominal breathing to prepare for the tea tasting experience.
A ceremonial narration guided the audience through mindful inhalation and exhalation, coupled with soft music and visualisation techniques designed to harmonise body and spirit. Participants were encouraged to “breathe thoroughly and deeply,” connecting to the rhythm of nature in preparation for the first cup of tea.
As the Shen Shi Tea Ceremony commenced, a soft voice invited guests to sip slowly, letting the tea gently pass through the lips, moistening the throat, and awakening the senses. Each sip served as both a spiritual and sensory experience, embodying the philosophy of peace, harmony, and well-being that defines the ancient Chinese tea tradition.
This cultural salon aimed not only to celebrate tea as a beverage but to deepen mutual understanding between cultures. Through the lens of tea, the event promoted dialogue, wellness, and respect—values at the heart of China’s cultural diplomacy.
Source: IN Diplomacy Reporter
