Mind My Matcha
Why I’ll Always Love This Green Elixir 🌱✨
If you’ve scrolled Instagram or TikTok lately, you’ve definitely noticed the explosion of matcha everywhere. From chic cafés serving creamy matcha lattes to influencers sharing their morning matcha recipes and serving it up in cute mugs, matcha is the drink right now. But for me, matcha isn’t just a trend, it’s something I fell in love with years ago when I lived in Japan.
Matcha isn’t about aesthetics or clout. It is tradition. It is culture. And it is connection. I remember sitting in quiet tea houses, watching how intentionally each cup was prepared, the whisking, the slowing down, the honoring of the moment. To this day, matcha still feels like a ritual of presence.
A Brief History of Matcha 🍵
Matcha traces back over 800 years to Japan, though its roots began in China during the Tang Dynasty. The practice of stone-grinding green tea leaves into a fine powder was brought to Japan by Buddhist monks, who used it to support meditation practices. Over time, matcha became a central part of Japanese tea ceremonies, symbolizing mindfulness, respect, and harmony.
It wasn’t just about drinking tea, it was about cultivating an experience. That’s part of why matcha feels so significant even today.
The Benefits of Matcha 🌿
Beyond its deep cultural roots, matcha is loaded with nutrients that make it a wellness powerhouse:
Sustained Energy (without the jitters): Matcha has caffeine, but it’s balanced with L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calm focus. No afternoon crash!
Antioxidant Boost: Matcha is rich in catechins, especially EGCG, which is linked to heart health and fighting inflammation.
Glow From Within: The chlorophyll gives it that rich green color and it’s also thought to help detoxify the body.
Supports Metabolism & Gut Health: Some studies suggest matcha may aid in fat metabolism and digestion.
It’s no wonder people are swapping their morning coffee for a vibrant matcha latte. Just lay off a little on the high sugar syrups 😅
My Current Matcha Picks 🍶
Over the years, I’ve tried everything from ceremonial-grade matcha prepared traditionally to café-style matcha lattes with oat milk. A few Iocals I enjoy:
Ippodo Tea (Kyoto): All-time favorite for authentic ceremonial matcha. Smooth, earthy, and rich.
ChaCha Matcha: where wellness meets play. With its tropical-pink interiors and pop-culture-inspired menu, the café makes sipping matcha feel less like a ritual and more like a lifestyle moment.
Buji Matcha: a black and woman owned ceremonial-grade matcha brand founded by Ari Davis of Stript. She hosts pop-ups around DC, pull up!
Jane Coffee and Matcha: a new coffee pop-up in the DMV that serves up your next cup of “Jane.” Fun drink combinations with a cool flair.
Matcha Panda Cafe: had to add this one! while in Philly I stopped by this cafe. The gelato was creamy, earthy, and just the right balance of sweet + bold. If you’re a dessert girlie, this is a must.
For me, each cup feels like a bridge between my time in Japan and my life now~ a small ritual of self-care, a reminder to pause and savor.
Final Sip 💚
Matcha may be trending now, but its magic runs deeper than an aesthetic. It’s history, mindfulness, and health all in one. Whether you whisk it the traditional way or enjoy a frothy latte at your favorite café, matcha is an invitation to slow down and nourish yourself. Would love to know your favorites!
Yours truly,
💋Courtney | stay in touch personally: @fabulouscoco__
In love and service- join us for a class or event : @flowwithcoco__
