To enjoy a cup of well-brewed aged Pu-erh tea, the 'awakening tea' process before brewing is a crucial step. Awakening tea involves changing the storage method of the tea to revive its quality and concentrate its aroma.

The first step is separating the tea, breaking the Pu-erh tea cake into pieces weighing a few grams each. For very old tea cakes, the tea body is often already loose and can be gently shaken or pulled apart by hand. For teas aged one or two decades, which are still relatively compact, a tea knife is usually needed. When separating, avoid breaking the tea into too fine pieces, as overly fragmented tea can easily clog the teapot spout and cause the tea liquor to release too quickly, affecting the stability of the infusion's taste and concentration.

The next step is airing and ventilating. Spread the separated tea leaves in a clean, shaded place to air for several days, allowing any storage odors to dissipate. The duration of ventilation depends on the condition of the tea. For teas stored in humid environments, one to two weeks may be needed, while clean tea products may only require two to three days.

Finally, place the ventilated Pu-erh tea into a purple clay or ceramic jar. Purple clay offers good insulation, light protection, and some breathability, helping to regulate and maintain relatively stable temperature and humidity inside the container. Storing Pu-erh tea in such an environment can enhance its efficacy and benefits, allowing the tea's quality and aroma to concentrate quickly.