Harmony in a Cup

As I close out Mental Health Awareness Month at Harbour for the Arts, it’s a perfect time to spotlight one of the simplest yet most soothing rituals an opera singer can embrace: a warm cup of tea. Beyond its vocal benefits, tea offers a moment of calm in the often chaotic rhythm of rehearsals, auditions, and performances.

Herbal blends like chamomile, lavender, and lemon balm are known for their calming properties, helping singers unwind after a long day and settle nerves before stepping on stage. Just the act of brewing tea—measured, quiet, intentional—can become a mini meditation, grounding the mind and soothing the soul.

Tea also supports the physical and emotional demands of a singing career. Many opera singers turn to throat-soothing blends like licorice root, slippery elm, and ginger to reduce inflammation, hydrate the vocal cords, and ease performance anxiety. But the healing goes deeper than just the voice. Taking time to sip and breathe encourages mindfulness, helping artists reconnect with their bodies and emotions. In a profession that requires emotional openness and vocal precision, these quiet tea rituals become an essential part of self-care—helping singers protect not just their instruments, but their well-being too.

This soothing tea blend is designed to promote mental wellness and relaxation, making it the perfect companion for moments of stress relief and mindfulness.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of boiling water

• 1 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers

• 1 teaspoon dried lemon balm

• 1 teaspoon dried lavender

• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for sweetness)

• 1 slice of fresh lemon (for garnish)

  
  

Instructions

1. In a teapot or a heatproof cup, combine the chamomile, lemon balm, and lavender.

2. Pour the boiling water over the herbs and steep for about 5-7 minutes.

3. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the herbs.

4. Add honey if desired, and stir gently.

5. Garnish with a slice of fresh lemon.

6. Enjoy your "Harmony in a Cup" while listening to calming music or practicing mindfulness.

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