Paradise Wellness Co. Hosts Fall Afternoon Tea Blending Classes in Nassau

This past weekend, tea lovers in Nassau had the chance to dive deep into the world of spiced teas at the Fall Afternoon Tea Blending Classes hosted by Paradise Wellness Co. Led by Mykah Smith, the founder of @bahamahoopyogi, the two-session event offered a hands-on experience in crafting personalized masala chai blends. The sessions, held on Saturday, November 15 at West Hill by Best Brew and Sunday, November 16 at Showman Farmhouse Bistro, drew an eager crowd of tea enthusiasts looking to explore the rich flavors and aromas of this beloved spiced beverage.

Masala chai, often referred to as spiced tea, is a traditional drink known for its bold blend of spices. In this class, Mykah guided attendees through the essential spices that make up a masala chai blend. From the familiar green and black cardamom, fennel, and cloves to the more unusual spices like anise and allspice, Mykah encouraged the class to engage their senses by smelling each spice individually. Many of these spices had been handpicked during Mykah’s recent trip to Doha, adding a personal and authentic touch to the experience.

Participants learned how each spice contributes its own unique flavor profile to the masala chai—cardamom for its sweet and aromatic notes, black pepper for its warmth and heat, fennel for a slight sweetness, and cloves for a spicy kick. Mykah also shared insights into the traditional preparation of masala chai, noting that the tea is typically brewed in milk to create a creamy, comforting beverage that balances the spiciness with the richness of dairy.

Once the spices had been explored and understood, it was time for the fun part: blending. Each participant had the opportunity to mix their own custom blend, which would then be added to their provided black tea. Mykah offered guidance throughout the process, ensuring that each blend was tailored to individual tastes, whether someone preferred a more peppery chai or one with a lighter, sweeter profile.

After completing their first blend, the attendees were treated to a warm, soothing cup of West Hill’s own masala chai latte, a perfect complement to the cozy atmosphere of the venue. Alongside the tea, participants enjoyed light bites, including a selection of savory and sweet snacks that paired perfectly with the spices of the chai. It was an immersive experience that not only engaged the senses but also provided a relaxing and enjoyable afternoon.

The second part of the class focused on creating a unique orange-spiced black tea blend, which attendees could take home as a souvenir. Mykah walked the class through the process of adding orange zest and other complementary spices to create a fragrant and refreshing tea, perfect for the changing fall season. 

By the end of the sessions, each participant had two custom tea blends to take home, along with the knowledge to craft their own masala chai lattes whenever they wished. The event not only provided a deeper appreciation for the art of tea blending but also offered a sense of connection to the traditions of chai and to one another, as attendees shared their love for tea and learning.

The Fall Afternoon Tea Blending Classes were just the beginning of a series of exciting wellness experiences that Mykah has planned for the coming year. Looking ahead to 2025, she intends to host more wellness retreats and classes, furthering her mission to connect individuals with practices that promote health, mindfulness, and personal growth. Whether through more tea blending sessions, yoga retreats, or other immersive experiences, Mykah is committed to fostering a deeper sense of well-being and community.