Lowering Anxiety with Matcha

For the unlucky among us who seem to be genetically predisposed to anxiety, or anyone else who falls prey to the perpetual “go-go-go”

rush of modern times, taking just a few minutes in the morning (or afternoon) to make a simple bowl of matcha is an excellent way to

center oneself.

Even though matcha has a decent amount of caffeine, it will not give you the jitters. On the contrary, matcha reduces anxiety because of

its high content of L-theanine. L-theanine is an amino acid, and the key phytonutrient in matcha, that helps promote calm instead of amping

up and increasing anxiety levels. There is no L-theanine in coffee, at all. It should also be noted that the L-theanine (also commonly called theanine )

in matcha occurs in greater quantities than other tea, because of the shading technique used in the final weeks of tea leaf growth; this removes

all sources of light to the plant, leading the plant to go into overdrive, producing more L-theanine and a whole lot of that bright green chlorophyll goodness.

Focus on each step of the matcha making process at home (or work). Make it a mindful practice. As you get your tea powder, cup and gear ready,

how do things look? Feel? Smell? What are the colors you see? How do your hands, eyes, and feet feel as they are planted on the ground?

The chaos of everyday life can seem overwhelming — even in the best of times — but unpacking your anxiety with a cup of Matcha can

be the mindful moment you need to center yourself before forging ahead.