I think almost everyone in Japan has tried matcha-flavored desserts or drinks, but I guess that about half of us have never actually tasted proper matcha. I was one of those people until about ten years ago. My first experience with true matcha was at an event held at a nearby temple. I remember being amazed at how delicious it was — and even more surprised by its effect on me.

I have ADHD, so I tend to react strongly to any kind of drug, for better or worse. In a way, I think tea is a kind of drug too. After drinking that first cup of matcha, my mind suddenly felt clear, my senses sharpened, and yet I was completely calm. It was a feeling of 明鏡止水 (meikyōshisui) — a phrase from the Chinese classics that means clear mirror — still water.

Since then, I’ve made a habit of whisking and drinking matcha regularly. I’ve never quite recaptured that initial experience. It seems like something that only happens the first time. However, I still get about 5% of that 明鏡止水 feeling whenever I drink it. Matcha isn’t cheap, but it’s my only luxury, so it's a simple pleasure I sometimes allow myself.