April Birth Tea
Birth Tea
Sencha
Sencha is one of Japan's most beloved green teas, with the new tea (first flush) harvested from April to May being particularly exceptional. During this period, tea leaves concentrate nutrients stored over winter into new buds, creating a soft and delicate flavor. New tea sencha contains less catechin and caffeine (sources of astringency and bitterness) while being rich in theanine (umami component), resulting in pronounced sweetness and umami. Its refreshing aroma reminiscent of fresh greenery embodies the very breath of spring. Tea picked on the 88th day from the beginning of spring is traditionally believed to ensure good health throughout the year, and sencha enjoyed at the start of the new fiscal year brings hope and vitality for new beginnings.
Features
- Vibrant green leaves and clear, translucent liquor color
- Fresh, grassy aroma characteristic of new buds
- Harmonious balance of umami, sweetness, and astringency
- Rich in nutrients including catechins, vitamin C, and theanine
- Delicate flavors extracted at optimal brewing temperature of around 70°C
Personality
- Possesses a fresh and positive temperament, granting courage to embrace new challenges
- Honest and straightforward character that reflects a pure, authentic heart
- Sociable yet dignified, bringing harmony to any situation
- Like patient new buds continuing to grow, encourages steady progress
Symbolic Meaning
- Symbol of new beginnings and hope, embodiment of spring's vitality
- Pure heart and clear state of mind, importance of beginner's spirit
- Fusion of Japanese tradition and innovation, flexibility to embrace change
- Focus and awakening, driving force toward goals
- Harmony with nature and gratitude, respect for seasonal blessings
Reason for Selection
- April marks the beginning of the new fiscal year when many people, including new students and employees, step into new environments
- Coincides with the start of new tea harvest, resonating April's energy with the 'freshness' and 'beginning' embodied in tea leaves
- As cherry blossoms fall and fresh greenery sprouts, sencha's verdant aroma helps transition body and mind
- Moderate caffeine content eases new life tensions while providing necessary focus
Protection & Effects
- Physical protection and immune system enhancement through antioxidant properties
- Gentle calming effects that protect the mind from stress and anxiety
- Enhanced sociability for smooth relationships in new environments
- Purifying effect that clears the mind from distracting thoughts
Trials & Growth
- Power to overcome adaptation challenges with flexibility and patience
- Challenge of nurturing confidence while maintaining beginner's humility
- Practice of maintaining natural alertness without excessive stimulation
- Cultivating balance between respecting tradition and embracing new values