As temperatures drop, hot tea has gradually become a comforting companion in our daily lives. But why is it that only the Chinese seem to have a penchant for hot beverages? Is it merely due to the colder climate in China? The answer lies in a blend of cultural beliefs, traditional Chinese medicine, and the long-standing practice of enjoying hot tea.
1. The Concept of “Wen Yang”: Chinese people’s preference for hot water is deeply rooted in the concept of “wen yang” or warming the body’s yang energy. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) philosophy, the balance of yin and yang, mirroring the balance in nature, is crucial for maintaining health. Yang energy is associated with warmth, vitality, and activity, and preserving this balance is considered essential for longevity.
Coldwater is deemed as “extremely cold.” Consuming cold beverages can lower the temperature of internal organs, allowing cold energy to penetrate the body, leading to internal coldness. This imbalance can disrupt the harmony of yin and yang, potentially causing symptoms like excessive sweating, vulnerability to external cold, and more.
TCM emphasizes the importance of “tonifying yang,” maintaining warmth within the body. Drinking hot water, in contrast to cold, helps sustain the body’s yang energy, promoting overall well-being.
2. Connection with Traditional Chinese Medicine: In the realm of TCM, water nourishes yin, and heat warms yang. Hot water, therefore, encapsulates both yin-nourishing and yang-warming properties, making it an ideal choice for maintaining health and preventing various ailments. The regular consumption of hot water aligns with the principles of TCM, serving as a preventive measure against a multitude of health issues.
3. Tea Culture Influence: The rich history of Chinese tea culture also contributes to the preference for hot beverages. Tea, an integral part of Chinese culture dating back to ancient times, is traditionally brewed with hot water to extract its flavors and benefits effectively. Whether it’s a steaming cup of green tea, fragrant oolong, or robust black tea, the process of brewing tea inherently involves using hot water.
In the winter, many Chinese people turn to hot teas to keep warm. Notably, traditional Chinese herbal teas, such as Fosenyuan cooling tea, are enjoyed hot during the colder months. This cultural practice has influenced the perception that hot beverages, particularly tea, are essential for comfort and well-being.
4. Cultural Practices from Childhood: Chinese children are often encouraged to drink hot water from a young age. Parents believe that consuming cold beverages may lead to gastrointestinal issues in children. The cultural influence, combined with the belief that hot water is beneficial, results in many children being accustomed to drinking warm water throughout their lives.
Additionally, the Chinese tradition of using hot water as a remedy extends beyond childhood. For various ailments, from upset stomachs to colds, menstrual pain to stomach issues in the elderly, a cup of hot water is often seen as a simple yet effective solution.
5. Cultural Divide: As more Chinese people travel abroad, the cultural preference for hot water has become more apparent. Hotels in foreign countries frequented by Chinese tourists now often provide electric kettles for hot water, recognizing the cultural habits of their guests. This illustrates how the tradition of drinking hot water has become synonymous with the Chinese way of life.
In conclusion, the preference for hot tea and water among the Chinese is deeply intertwined with cultural beliefs, traditional medicine, and historical practices. It serves as more than just a means of staying warm; it is a reflection of the holistic approach to health that has been ingrained in Chinese culture for centuries. So, the next time you see someone sipping on a steaming cup of tea in China, remember that it’s not just about the weather; it’s a cultural and health-conscious choice that spans generations.
