Conversations Over Tea: Colin Hudon

Conversations Over Tea is an ongoing series of interviews between our founder, Rose Goodman, and people who inspire her.

with Colin Hudon

Colin Hudon is an herbalist, acupuncturist, Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner, tea master, and founder of Living Tea, a tea and medicinal herb company. Through his work with Living Tea Colin shares old-growth, rare teas, hand-made teaware, and traditional tea ceremonies. An inspired traveler, he trots the globe exploring the ancient art and science of tea craft. Wherever he is, he spends time in nature gathering and studying plants, hiking, camping, and exploring.

List three things you can’t live without:

Time in Nature. Connection. Music.

And one that’s highly overrated:

Social media.

Share one ritual or routine you do everyday:

Drink tea mindfully.

What’s your definition of excellent health?

Harmony with one’s life and purpose.

What’s your favorite Apothecai blend?

I like Deep Wave Sleep. I’m a bit of a minimalist and this feels like an elegant and effective formula.

Draw your self portrait.

What truly connects people?

People connect on different levels depending on where they’re at in life. What truly connects people is authenticity, vulnerability, curiosity and listening deeply.  Ultimately, however, the great connector is presence. When we are reverential of another and able to fully be with them, to give them our full attention, they feel heard, seen and acknowledged. This elicits openness, and in this space we can connect in a meaningful, lasting way.

What’s your relationship with fear?

It has taken me a long time, and a lot of trial and error, but I have a healthy, respectful relationship with fear. In Classical Chinese Medicine, we are taught that by delving deeply into our fears we discover the source of our wisdom. When I feel contracted in life, I’ve conditioned myself to ask, “What am I afraid of here?” This practice has significantly contributed to my understanding of my strengths and weakness. By leaning into my fear, I’ve been able to find my edges and limitations and grow beyond them.

Sum up your personal ethos in one line:

Just because you can’t do everything doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do anything. Do more. The world need us to show up, all of us, to our full capacity. This is not a time in history for complacency. Our words and actions matter.

Follow Colin and Living Tea on Instagram.

Photos courtesy of Colin Hudon