Cozy Up with a Cup of Tea

Even coffee lovers know that there’s nothing better on a chilly, damp fall afternoon than sipping a big mug of tea by a cozy fire. It warms you up from the inside out and leaves you feeling rested and healthy.

What is it about tea that makes us feel so good? It turns out that green, black, and oolong tea are all packed with powerful antioxidants, those free radical fighters that can rev up our immune system and help it fight off colds, flu, and also some forms of cancer. So even if you think you’re not a tea drinker, give it a try!

Here’s how to make the perfect cup of hot tea:

Start with cold water in a kettle or pot. Bring just to a boil and then pour over a tea bag in your cup. (If you’re preparing green tea, let the boiled water sit for a minute before pouring it over your tea bag.) Let stand for 3 to 5 minutes to maximize your antioxidant dose. Remove the bag promptly to prevent bitterness from too much tannin. Then find a cozy spot by the fire, sip, and relax. Ahhhh…