Written by: Ashley Tan

Matcha is more than just a trendy drink, it's a powerhouse of health benefits that can easily become a part of your daily routine. From its ability to improve focus and energy levels to its potential for supporting weight loss and heart health, matcha offers a variety of reasons to make it a daily habit. Here’s how I incorporate matcha into my busy life as a researcher, ensuring it aligns with my health goals and busy schedule.

1. Morning Usucha: A Gentle Start to the Day

I kickstart my day with a cup of usucha, a thin matcha tea that’s light, energizing, and simple to prepare. Usucha was deliberately chosen over a matcha latte to avoid milk which can upset my stomach early in the morning.

Matcha’s health benefits for increased energy and focus are perfect for mornings when I need amental boost to dive into my work. I have a dreadful 2-hour commute where I use this time to read up on some research papers and having this simple cup of usucha in the morning does wonders to my concentration even in the over-stimulated commute environment.

Using a bamboo whisk paired with a hand-made ceramic bowl to prepare usucha at home adds a touch of tradition to the process, making my mornings feel intentional and grounded. This simple ritual sets the tone for a productive day.

2. Midday Matcha Latte: A Protein Boost

As a researcher, my schedule can be unpredictable, often causing me to miss meals. To keep myself energized, I make a quick matcha latte using a handheld frother. This tool is compact, easy to clean, and perfect for whipping up a drink in a pinch.

For added benefits, I use a protein-enriched matcha powder from Matcha Masta that contains 5g of protein per serving, which not only fuels me through the day but also supports my weight loss goals. Matcha is known for its ability to boost metabolism and energy levels, making it an excellent addition to my lifestyle. Whether you're looking for a pre-workout boost or just a mid-afternoon energy lift, this quick latte is a lifesaver.

Key Health Benefits of Matcha

Unlike green tea, matcha is more potent because it uses the entire tea leaf, making it a nutrient-rich option. Drinking matcha daily has numerous benefits, from providing sustained energy without the jitters of coffee to promoting better skin and hair. It also makes for a versatile ingredient—you can use it to create your own matcha drinks or include it in recipes for matcha-based foods. Matcha can even be part of a detox routine, helping to cleanse and reset your body.

If you're new to matcha, here are different ways to incorporate matcha:

• A morning daily dose of matcha to kickstart your day.
• A healthy matcha drink recipe, such as a matcha smoothie or latte, can replace your midday snack.
• Use a stainless-steel scoop for precise measurements and opt for a stainless-steel sieve to remove any clumps for a smoother drinking experience.

The Simple Joy of Routine

For me, the act of making matcha, whether it’s whisking usucha in the morning or blending a latte during a busy day, has become more than just a habit. It’s a moment of mindfulness that I genuinely look forward to. The key health benefits of matcha, such as improved heart health and support for weight loss, are an added bonus to the joy it brings me daily.

Whether you're seeking ways to incorporate matcha into your routine or exploring its potential as a drink for focus and clarity, matcha is a wonderful addition to any lifestyle. Take a few minutes each day to prepare and enjoy it—you might just discover your new favorite ritual!