Enter tea—coffee's other show stealer.
I enjoy tea, tea drinkers, and the exciting conversations we have while sipping. While the shift from coffee to tea was challenging, my energy levels differed throughout the day. Often, I return to coffee because I like the flavor-fullness of the bean. However, I enjoy tea day and night and switch to herbal teas in the evening. I want to share with you several categories of teas. Just know that some teas carry an abundance of caffeine, making some people awake for days. Yes, days!
Here are the seven categories of teas:
Herbal: Infusion of plant material from flowers, fruit peels, and sometimes spices that helps with ailments. Some use herbal teas to unwind or fall asleep.
White: Young, minimally processed part of the Camellia Sinensis tea plant contains the most antioxidants.
Green: Mature part of the Camellia Sinensis tea plant, full of caffeinate
Black: Mature roasted part of the tea plant contains different amounts of caffeine
Oolong: Super oxidized, rolled leaves and buds of Camellia Sinensis plant
Matcha: Shade-grown green tea is available in three grades: Ceremonial, Premium, and Culinary. Ceremonial is not available in Japan. It is used for Buddhist temples to pay homage. Both Premium and Culinary grades are widely available.
Yerba Mate: "herb" tea with more caffeine than coffee keeps you awake for days.
Whether you enjoy coffee or tea, the best part is the company you keep. Enjoy a cup with a friend or family member and catch up. If you can't, spend "alone time" with a cup and watch the sunrise.