Friends of Chinatown YYC highlight a variety of workshops that take place in Calgary’s Chinatown. I recently saw the post for ‘Tea with a Doctor: Traditional Chinese Medicine Tea Experience’ and for $15 you can meet with a TCM Doctor and have your pulse read, and try three different herbal blends.
The event was held at the recently opened Today’s Special Cafe at 109 2nd Avenue SE. The event was hosted by Alice Lam (owner of the cafe/tea house), and included two TCM Doctors - Olivia, and Vivian Lau. The space has a cool vibe with vibrant colours, but a relaxing atmosphere. The cafe is self-described as being a place for coffee, tea, snacks and workshops.
Top to Bottom - Left to Right: Goji Berries, Jujube fruit, Licorice, Hawthorn Fruit; Butterfly Pea Flower, Chrysanthemum, Rose, Honeysuckle; Tangerine peel, Spearmint, Longan, Ginger and Lemongrass
The three blends of tea used the ingredients listed above and fell into three categories: Beauty Tea, Detox and Digestive. All were good (and healthy). After your quick visit with the TCM they recommended a tea that might be beneficial for your constitution. Afterwards the doctors applied ear seeds to three points in your ear, using Cassia Seeds (Jue Ming Zi). The points selected were Shenmen (calming), Liver and Lung.
Acupuncture points to help with stress, liver function and strengthen lungs for the
winter.
It was an interesting and pleasant way to spend a couple of hours. I met some new people and enjoyed the discussions.
I wish the best of luck on the opening of this new tea house. If you’re in Chinatown, stop by and pay a visit.
