The Hammond Regional Arts Center hosted a Japanese tea ceremony that is a part of the Zen Aesthetics program. The tea ceremony was held on Sunday, Sept. 29 from 1-3 p.m.

The Japanese tea ceremony showcased the traditions and cultures of tea ceremonies in Japan through a live demonstration and collaboration of the process.

During the ceremony, participants were able to experience Japanese culture for themselves by enjoying the tea and food that were served to them.

The narrator of the ceremony made multiple teas and explained what it was made with, as well as the culture and where it derived from. The tea that was popular amongst the participants was Matcha Tea, which is a powdered green tea that is commonly drank in Japan.

The purpose of a Japanese tea ceremony is to embrace the techniques of making the tea that brings one peace, harmony and purity.

Frank Cogswell, an attendee, expressed how he enjoyed the tea ceremony.

“I think it is just wonderful that the Hammond Regional Arts Center is introducing a bit of a Zen culture because it’s not something that we experience in our day-to-day lives,” said Cogswell. “I plan on attending more of the Zen Aesthetics events and incorporating these lessons into my life.”

To learn more about the upcoming events featured in the Zen Aesthetics program, visit the HRAC in downtown Hammond or visit HRAC’s website.