My Journey to Matcha

I was not always a matcha lover. For years I would drink coffee every morning and my awareness was dulled when it came to matcha. However, I began to experience the negative side effects of coffee - anxious jitters, afternoon crashes then sleepless nights - and needed to make a change. 

Over the years I tried other coffee alternatives, but it wasn’t until I finally understood all that matcha had to offer that my life changed. I became enamoured with everything about it!  Matcha was readily available to me this entire time, yet I paid it little attention and certainly never knew about any of its powerful health benefits or that it’s a delicacy in Japan.

Matcha has a powerful ingredient, the amino acid L-theanine, which allow those who are caffeine sensitive to have the energy boost without the coffee downsides. L-theanine regulates the effects of caffeine in the blood stream and generates soothing alpha waves in the brain. The result is that famous Zen-like, focused-awareness accompanied by feelings of tranquil relaxation. It’s a smooth lift rather than a sharp jolt.

I’m now a devout matcha aficionado because of how good I feel when I drink it. I also love knowing that I'm nourishing my body with a good amount of EGCG, the super antioxidant predominantly found in matcha. My morning matcha ritual gives me an awesome daily boost with long-lasting energy and focused concentration but accompanied by a grounded feeling that comes from the L-theanine.

As a Japanese American I’m so happy to share all I can about the beautiful tradition and deep history of matcha in Japan, its numerous health benefits, and all the delicious ways to enjoy it. What I’ve discovered is that the world of matcha is vast if you just open your mind to the brilliant, humble and marvelous verdant green powder.

 

From the tea farmers and producers, we thank you.

Aiko, Owner