In today's fast-paced world, we’re constantly bombarded by notifications, endless feeds, and digital noise. Our phones buzz with messages, emails, and invites, pulling our attention away from what truly matters: the people around us and the moments we share.
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about my habits around screens. Between work on my computer, answering emails, checking social media, and then unwinding with television in the evenings, my screen time easily adds up to 2–3 hours on my phone alone every day. With TV and computer its way beyond the 2-3 hours a day.
And it’s made me realize something that’s a bit hard to admit — sometimes, when Ville is in my arms or playing on the floor carpet, I catch myself feeling the pull of my phone. Even though he’s just six months old and doesn’t yet notice if I’m scrolling instead of looking at him, I do. It can leave me feeling guilty and sad because deep down I want to give him my full attention. The algorithm are created to keep our attention, but we must actively take a decision to stop.
That’s where tea becomes more than a drink for us. Every time we put on the kettle and brew a cup — especially when Cornelie and I decide to make it a ritual — it’s like a cue to put everything else down. No phones, no TV. Just us, a warm (or cold) cup of tea, and Ville. Even if he can’t play or talk yet, we know these quiet moments matter.
And research supports this need to slow down:
A 2024 study from the University of Southern Denmark showed that reducing recreational screen time to just three hours per week led to lower stress, less anxiety, and improved mental well-being in parents and children alike (source: SDU.dk).
Statens Institut for Folkesundhed also highlights how constant distractions can erode long-term connection — too much screen use can contribute to feelings of isolation and stress across all ages.
That’s why our ritual of making tea means so much. Every Yama Tea brew is a reminder that these small moments — making eye contact with Ville, feeling his hands in mine, sharing a quiet moment with Cornelie — matter more than anything on my phone.
When we slow down with tea, we create the space to truly be present. That’s the mission behind Yama Tea: to help all of us reconnect - with ourselves and with the people around us.
How do you make time to truly be present in your own daily life? Whether it’s a ritual like tea, a quiet walk, or simply turning off your phone for a few minutes — we’d love to hear your thoughts.
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