The Cup of Tea That Taught Me Presence

This morning, I made a cup of tea and, for once, didn’t rush it.
No phone in hand. No multitasking. Just the slow ritual — boiling water, watching the steam rise, waiting as the color deepened in the cup.

It struck me how rarely I do one thing at a time. Even something as simple as making tea often happens in the background, while my mind runs ahead to the next task. But this time, I stayed still.

As I sat, sipping slowly, the world seemed to soften. The warmth of the mug, the quiet of the room, the faint aroma in the air — all small details I’d normally miss.

That’s the thing about presence: it doesn’t require hours of meditation or a perfect morning routine. It begins with paying attention — to the simple, ordinary moments that ground us in the here and now.

Today, find your version of that cup of tea. A mindful pause. A small act done slowly. You’ll be surprised by how much peace it holds.


Tags: #mindfulness #presence #selfgrowth #reflection #calm

If this resonated, follow for one mindful insight each day — reflections to help you slow down, notice, and live with gentle awareness.

Raymond, Big Issue vendor

Support Raymond Year-Round

Raymond Brian Duggan, Immingham
Subscribe today and we'll share 50% of the profits directly with Raymond, meaning they can earn up to £75 per year from your subscription. Every time your subscription renews, they'll continue receiving this income — support that lasts for life.

1 Year £199.99
Every week, The Big Issue reports on the biggest issues facing people in the UK and the world, brings exclusive interviews with cultural heavyweights, challenges orthodoxy, and gives a voice to the marginalised.
Free weekly delivery of your magazine.

Comments