Join us in Brighton (UK) for Live Gongfu Tea !
Multiple tea tables, people, amazing tea, deep conversation, people come from all over the UK (and abroad) for this and for a good reason, the energy of the live meeting is quite extraordinary, the people you meet become good friends and you can get a lot of inspiration for your own tea practice.
***** These are the guidelines for the event, please make sure that you've read them all and agree before registering. (Updated June 2023) *****
Please take the time to read slowly and really take it in.
Forget time
We're here to experience some peaceful, connected, content time. Like being a tea tree, unconcerned with status, wealth, image and all the usual rushing to and fro of mankind. Leave all these behind for a few hours.
Turn off your phone
Even if you wish to take a picture, turn your phone off (off, not silent) straight after
Join a table
Ask freely to join an existing table or start a new one.
Bring your cup or if you need to borrow one, keep hold of it during the day.
Please, no food at tea tables, there are special areas for sharing food. Bring your own food or order takeout.
Which tea?
When drinking multiple teas in a day, it's best to use the really high quality ones, because otherwise it can be a bit harsh on the body and mind. You may want to bring some of your very best tea, or you can try sample sizes of various world-class Puerh.
Metta (the “loving kindness” dog)
We have a lovely golden retriever who will come to sniff you, and perhaps lie down at your feet.
Please do not feed her.
Close doors when entering and leaving the house, as she's an escape artist.
On communication
Humble invitations to make the most of these day
1) Be interested in the other
Ask questions and try to understand them (as opposed to the common 'waiting for one's turn to talk'), particularly listen to the quiet ones, avoid interruptions, leave a lot of space before speaking.
2) Talk about the here and now
Avoid topics like politics, covid, jobs (unless it really moves you).
Take the occasion to connect deeper, leaving contentious and usual topics of conversation for other more appropriate settings.
3) One conversation at each table
There is beauty and depth in silence, particularly when it happens naturally.
Resist the temptation to “fill the gaps”, allow some quiet space to be and time to think, you'll be rewarded with peace.
4) People are actually really friendly...
...when we quieten our minds.
We wish to see the real you, no need to hide or perform.
***** These are the guidelines for the event, please make sure that you've read them all and agree before registering. *****
To register please input your email below. You will receive an email which contains a link you need to click on to register
A few words from past participants:
"I'm very new to the world of puerh tea and honestly wasn't sure if it was worth the hype. I was curious to come to the ceremony, though this was mostly to meet new people. At first I was confused by the enthusiasm everyone had for the tea and it seemed a little over the top, though I wanted to honour it and give it a try. Paolo was very welcoming and the atmosphere was relaxed and friendly. I felt at ease as I sat around my first table and soaked in this new environment. As we started to drink the tea I was surprised by the effects. I worked as an energetic and spiritual healer, and soon felt the tea opening my energy channels in a relaxing, enjoyable and potent way. I felt a communion with the spirit of the tea, and felt her downloading her knowledge into me. It was a beautiful experience and I soon realised why there was so much hype around these sacred teas. I highly recommend trying them out and joining the ceremony for the pleasant and relaxed social environment." (Jack, UK)
"The slow tea event at Paolo's tea palace was brilliant! Lovely people, incredible tea and a great atmosphere. A good friend of mine who was a tea novice came along to try it out and was amazed that tea could be experienced in this way. Many thanks to Paolo for being a great host as always and a special thanks to Ermanno for his excellent, meditative ceremony that led the whole table into a wonderful, almost psychedelic state of presence that gave way to deep, alive, nourishing conversation. Myself and my friend look forward to returning again soon!" (Paul, UK)
"Such a Joy to spend a day with so many wonderful tea enthusiasts and fine palates. It has been a privilege to participate. Different stories and styles, sharing the same passion with authenticity, in a whole, rich, biodiverse, and friendly togetherness. What a bright day! Thank you all from the deepest of my heart." (Ermanno/Phoenix, UK)
Please feel free to send yours for inclusion by writing a comment or via email!