It is often said that nurturing a purple clay Teapot requires dedication. But how should one go about it? And where to begin? Here are seven aspects, commonly referred to as the “Seven Hearts” of teapot care.
Happy Heart:
Treat it as an interest in your life. It can enrich your free time and help you learn more about Chinese traditional culture. Approach the art of purple clay with a positive attitude, leading a simple yet fulfilling life.
Cautious Heart:
Be mindful to prevent knocks and bumps. Purple clay Teapots are valuable, and any damage can significantly decrease their worth. Besides the financial loss, seeing a damaged teapot, even after repair, can be distressing.
Calm Heart:
Avoid being hasty or impatient. One day external care, the next internal care, one day Oolong Tea, the next black tea, will not yield good results. Personally, I believe that nurturing a teapot is a process, the main focus being on enjoying the experience and the sense of achievement as the teapot changes.
Ordinary Heart:
No matter its value, every purple clay teapot has practical use. Do not neglect a less expensive pot, treating it casually. Purple clay, even if abundant, is a non-renewable resource. By keeping a teapot, you are preserving wealth for future generations.
Sincere Heart:
Nurturing a purple clay teapot requires consistency. Using it for three days and then setting it aside for six months will not produce any effect. My conclusion is that the teapot will return what you give it.
Diligent Heart:
Attend to the details. Clean stains in crevices and hard-to-reach corners carefully; long-term neglect makes them difficult to clean. Keeping the teapot clean is beneficial for health, looks good, and boosts your mood.
Persistent Heart:
Be consistent. The effects of long-term brewing with tea are truly gratifying. Seeking quick results by boiling the teapot or applying oil produces unnatural outcomes without the sense of accomplishment. Nurturing a teapot is purely a form of self-entertainment.
Nurturing a teapot is like cultivating a sapling; rushing the process inevitably compromises the natural development. So, there is no need to rush. With regular use and proper care, a fine teapot will naturally come into being in your hands.