LAWAI — Tea, says Lynn Muramoto, helps people balance their lives. “It aligns the body, mind and spirit. That’s the only way to explain it,” said the president of the Lawai International Center. On Saturday, Kauai residents can take part
LAWAI — Tea, says Lynn Muramoto, helps people balance their lives.
“It aligns the body, mind and spirit. That’s the only way to explain it,” said the president of the Lawai International Center.
On Saturday, Kauai residents can take part in the third annual Japanese tea ceremony performed by the Urasenke Kauai Kyoutai Tea Association.
But the ceremony goes beyond tea, Muramoto said. It’s about heart.
“When people come to the tea ceremony, it’s about being in the moment,” she said. “The audience becomes part of the energy flow of the ceremony and the whole family.”
The ceremony will take place at the Hall of Compassion, which was built three years ago by volunteers. The hall was inspired by 13th-century temples in Japan, which are not open to the public. It is fitting that the centuries-old tradition will take place within those walls, Muramoto said.
The tea ceremony will feature a shakuhachi, a Japanese flute made from bamboo.
Ceremonies will take place at 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Seating is limited to 25 people per ceremony.
It is free but donations are welcome.
To reserve a spot, contact Dora Hong at 651-8893 or dorahong888@gmail.com.