About Us
Our Mission
To create a sanctuary for tea enthusiasts and thinkers, fostering intellectual growth through the art of tea.
Our Vision
To become the premier hub for tea culture and intellectual discourse within our university and beyond.
Our Values
- • Inclusivity and Diversity
- • Intellectual Curiosity
- • Cultural Appreciation
- • Mindfulness and Reflection
Thoughtful Events
Featured Event: Poetic Brew
Our literary gathering where tea and verses intertwine. Here's what to expect:
- Soft lighting for a cozy, intimate vibe
- A curated selection of teas to complement the mood
- Open mic for sharing poetry in any language
- Thoughtful discussions on literary themes and techniques
"Green tea leaves unfurl
Whispered verses take flight here
Minds steep in stillness."
— Sol Astri, Event Coordinator
At Thoughts and Tea, we believe that the tea drinking ritual is the perfect backdrop for intellectual growth and intercultural exchange. Our events are carefully moderated to stimulate both the mind and the palate, creating a space where ideas flow as freely as our carefully selected teas.
The Essence of Our Gatherings
Each event type is designed to foster a specific aspect of personal and communal growth, all while enjoying the finest teas:
Gōngfū Chá Ceremonies
Explore the art of Chinese tea ceremony and connect with others.
Poetic Brew
Share poems in a candlelit atmosphere, fostering literary appreciation.
Film/TV Screenings
Discuss cultural themes over traditional teas.
Tea House Debates
Engage in structured debates on contemporary issues.
Tea Study Sessions
Focus on exam preparation with the perfect tea.
Global Tea Traditions
Experience diverse tea cultures from around the world.
Why Our Events Matter
In the fast-paced university environment, our events offer:
- A quiet shelter for mindful interaction and self-reflection
- Opportunities to learn from different backgrounds and experiences
- A unique blend of aromatic, tactile and intellectual stimulation
- A chance to build meaningful connections beyond academic boundaries
Gōngfū Chá: The Art of Tea
At Thoughts and Tea, we celebrate gōngfū chá as more than just a tea party — it's a cultural phenomenon that embodies mindfulness, precision, and appreciation for the finer things in life. This time‑honored Chinese practice is at the heart of our club's philosophy.
The Essence of Gōngfū Chá
Gōngfū chá (功夫茶), which translates to "tea with great skill" or "tea with effort," is a meticulous approach to tea preparation that emphasizes:
Why Gōngfū Chá Matters
In our fast-paced university life, gōngfū chá offers a chance to calm down and focus. It teaches us to:
- Appreciate the subtle nuances in flavor and aroma
- Cultivate patience and attention to detail
- Foster meaningful connections through shared experiences
Experience Gōngfū Chá
Join us for our weekly tea ceremonies where you can:
- Learn the intricacies of gōngfū chá
- Taste a variety of premium teas
- Practice mindfulness and reflection
- Connect with fellow tea enthusiasts
Our Tea Crew
Sol Astri
President & Event Coordinator
Sol is a talented organizer, a poet and a musician. He curates our events and ensures that every gathering is a memorable experience for our members.
Iaroslav Postovalov
VP & Chief Tea Officer
Iaroslav brings years of experience in tea ceremonies and a deep knowledge of tea, from its history to its varieties. His passion for sharing this tradition makes our gatherings unique.
Club Activities
We often hold tea ceremonies outdoors, such as on Campus Green
Ānjí bái (安吉白) tea leaves opened up beautifully after brewing at our ceremony
More Than Just Tea
At Thoughts and Tea, we're not just about drinking tea — we're about creating a cultural phenomenon. Our club is a space for intellectual discourse, cultural appreciation, and personal growth.
From our regular gōngfū chá sessions to our thought‑provoking discussions, we're building a community that values mindfulness, diversity, and the rich traditions of tea culture.
Join Our Circle
Become part of our vibrant community of tea lovers and thinkers. Experience the art of tea and engage in stimulating conversations.
How to Join
- Sign up in the official member list (Constructor University account needed)
- Complete our survey of members and join our chats for all announcements
- Expect to pay the semester membership fee (12 €)