Person pouring hot water into a white bowl with tea leaves inside, on a wooden tray, with a jar in the foreground and a glass to the side.

Gather for Tea: The Living Art of Gong Fu Cha

First Saturdays, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

In the meditation room at our clinic · $25

Slow down and spend a Saturday morning steeped in the ancient art of Gong Fu Cha. In this small, welcoming gathering, Brad will guide you through a traditional Chinese tea ceremony — brewing and tasting fine teas the way they've been enjoyed for centuries, one small cup at a time.

No experience needed. Whether you're a longtime tea lover, curious about mindfulness, or simply looking for a peaceful way to start your weekend, you'll leave feeling calm, connected, and maybe a little tea-obsessed.

What to expect:

  • A guided tasting of several premium teas from China, Japan and Taiwan

  • The story and philosophy behind Gong Fu Cha ("making tea with skill")

  • A quiet, meditative pace — a natural way to practice mindfulness without sitting in silence

  • Good conversation and community in a cozy group of no more than 7

Everything is provided — just bring yourself. Great to attend solo or with a friend.

Brad has been a tea enthusiast and educator since 1999, when he discovered and began working at Far Leaves Tea in Berkeley, CA. He shares Far Leaves’ philosophy of using the practice of tea to help slow down, pay attention, and savor life.

During his time practicing Zen and Taoist meditation with a Korean Zen master in the early 1990s, Brad learned of the deep historical connection between tea and the meditative arts. Even after all these years immersed in the craft tea world, Brad remains as passionate as ever about this wonderful beverage and its culture.

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“The weekly meditation and tea ceremony with Brad and Ozben has become my sanctuary and refuge from the busyness of the world. I highly recommend this experience as a way to slow down, be present, and connect with oneself and others. Plus, I have learned an incredible amount about the art of tea making in China and Taiwan!”

— Ramona

Why Tea?

We are deeply committed to supporting holistic health and healing within our community. We believe that true wellness encompasses the mind, body, and spirit, and that cultivating a mindful lifestyle is key to achieving balance and vitality. Through our Gong Fu Cha tea tastings, we aim to provide a peaceful space for individuals to slow down, connect with community, and experience the simple ritual of sharing tea together.

The ceremonial style of tea invites presence, mindfulness, and relaxation, offering a gentle antidote to the pace of daily life. By creating opportunities to gather around tea, we hope to nurture our community's well-being in a thoughtful and holistic way.

    • Relaxation and Calming Effect: The process of preparing and drinking ceremonial tea is slow and intentional, creating a meditative experience that encourages mindfulness and relaxation.

    • Improved Digestion: Teas can aid digestion, soothe the stomach, and promote gut health.

    • Rich in Antioxidants: Many ceremonial teas, especially green tea, are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body from free radical damage and support overall health.

    • Mental Clarity and Focus: The caffeine in ceremonial teas provides a more sustained and gentle energy boost than coffee, enhancing focus and concentration without the jitters.

    • Nourishment for the Body and Spirit: Drinking tea in a ceremonial style encourages presence and appreciation for the moment, fostering mindfulness and a deeper connection to the practice of self-care.