My touring ritual: A magic cup of tea
Hello there,
As you might have noticed, I’ve been on the road recently, touring with the illustrious Bellowhead and their support band, The Longest Johns. My partner, Andy, is the banjo player and vocalist for TLJs. The story of that journey is for another day!
Touring with a show is extraordinary, especially for someone who spent most of their career in an office. Each day begins in a new city, unpacking and setting up the entire production in a different venue. I am always lost in the labyrinth of backstage corridors during set up before the doors open and thousands pour in. I greet them at the merch desk, chatting away and selling wares.
Every show feels unique, its energy shaped by the audience, the acoustics, the day of the week, and even the weather. The ensemble, band and crew alike, bring their absolute best, night after night. It’s exhilarating and exhausting in equal measure. And amidst it all, I like to do my part by whipping up cups of magic tea to keep the team going.
Magic tea is a comforting blend of ingredients and it smells like Christmas in a cup, softening even the hardiest roadies. It’s flexible, so you don’t need every ingredient to create something delicious. My most recent addition has been rosemary. I'm sure I'll add something new next time; someone recently suggested peppercorns.
Touring can make it tricky to stay grounded in my spiritual practice, but this simple ritual and offering to the crew always makes me feel good. Here’s how I made it during this tour:
Fresh Ingredients:
Chilli: Nothing too fiery - just enough to bring a gentle warmth. (This one was Andy Day’s suggestion and has become a firm favourite.)
Rosemary: About a 4 cm sprig works perfectly.
Turmeric: If you find it fresh, scrape off the skin and add a small chunk. Pro tip: Wear gloves unless you fancy stained nails for days! Just a sprinkle of dried turmeric is enough.
Lemon, orange, and lime: Citrus is key! I squeeze lemon and orange into the cup, toss in their peels, and add the juice of a lime.
Dried Ingredients:
Cinnamon stick: One is plenty and adds a festive touch.
Star anise: While not everyone loves its flavour, it’s subtle and adds a soothing quality to sore throats. I sometimes add a full star or a couple of points, depending on how much I have available.
Cloves: Two or three per cup, watch out for these making their way into your mouth! Someone once 'did a shot' of my magic tea and inhaled a clove!
Ginger: A warming powerhouse addition. Scrape off the skin and add a good chunk to the cup.
Finally, I sweeten each cup with honey or maple syrup.
You can prepare these cups in advance too. Add the honey with the other ingredients - the flavours meld into the honey beautifully. When you’re ready, add hot water for a nourishing and soul-soothing drink.
Things get so hectic during this time of year. Everyone deserves a cup of magic tea. I welcome you to craft your version of this hot concoction, giving yourself and your loved ones a heart-warming boost. For extra magic, speak loving affirmations into the cups, stirring clockwise three times. Finish with a pentagram formation with the spoon, and voila, your magic cup is ready.
Enjoy x
