As the saying goes, “Nourish in the Nine Colds of Winter, Preserve in the Dog Days of Summer.” The dog days mark the hottest period of the year and are also the most important time for health preservation.
The dog days have arrived, with scorching heat that seems to set the air ablaze. During this season, Drinking Tea becomes a popular choice for many to beat the heat, quench thirst, and maintain well-being. However, there are some considerations when drinking tea during the dog days. The right way to drink tea can help us better enjoy its delights and soothe the summer's dryness and heat.
First, we need to understand the climatic characteristics of the dog days. High temperatures, humidity, and stifling heat cause the body to sweat excessively, leading to the loss of water and electrolytes. Therefore, when choosing tea, it is best to opt for types that are cooling, hydrating, and refreshing in taste.
Green Tea is undoubtedly one of the top choices for the dog days. It is unfermented, preserving the natural components of the leaves, rich in polyphenols, vitamin C, and other nutrients.
In the sweltering heat of summer, brewing a cup of fresh green tea, such as Longjing or Biluochun, the tender green leaves unfurl in the water, infusing the cup with the vitality of spring. Sipping it, the freshness and aftertaste of the tea spread instantly in the mouth, making one feel refreshed and invigorated. For example, when feeling drowsy and listless in the afternoon, a fragrant cup of green tea can quickly awaken your spirits and restore your vitality.
White tea is also an excellent choice for the dog days. White tea is cool in nature and refreshing. Varieties like Silver Needle and Pai Mu Tan have beautiful leaf shapes and produce clear, light-Yellow Tea liquor. The simple production process preserves the natural flavor of the tea leaves, resulting in a light and sweet taste. Imagine sitting in the courtyard on a stifling evening, sipping a cup of white tea while feeling the breeze on your face. That comfort and pleasure are enough to dispel the weariness of the day.
When drinking tea during the dog days, there are some details to keep in mind. Avoid drinking strong tea, as it may burden the stomach and affect sleep. The timing of tea consumption is also important; try to avoid drinking tea before bed to prevent sleep disturbances. Additionally, due to increased sweating during the dog days, it is essential to replenish fluids appropriately when drinking tea and not rely solely on tea to quench thirst.
Furthermore, the method of drinking tea can be varied. Cold-brewed tea has become popular in recent years, where tea leaves are steeped in cold water for several hours until their flavors slowly release. Cold-brewed green tea, white tea, or oolong tea has a cool and sweet taste, making it very suitable for the dog days. You can also try making fruit teas by combining fresh fruits with tea, such as lemon green tea or peach oolong tea. This not only adds richness to the taste but also supplements vitamins.
Selecting the right tea and mastering the proper way to drink it can allow us to enjoy the coolness and comfort of tea during this hot season, leading to a healthy and pleasant experience of the dog days.
During these dog days, let us make tea our friend and feel the beauty of life in its aroma, welcoming every refreshing moment. May the tea in this cup serve as a cool comfort and a testament to our love and anticipation for life during the dog days.