A Walk Through Spring’s Canvas
As you enter Descanso Gardens, the colors immediately envelop you. The cherry blossoms sway like whispers in the wind, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and breathe in the moment. The soft trickle of a stream, paired with a traditional red bridge, sets the tone—this is not a place to rush through.
Each path leads to another floral surprise: vivid pink azaleas spill into view, Japanese maples blush in burnt orange and red, and camellias, with their intricate petals, seem almost too perfect to be real. Spring has truly arrived, and it’s showing off.
One of the highlights is the tulip and daffodil display. Bold pinks, sunny yellows, and creamy whites dance in harmony, filling the garden beds with optimism. These blooms are fleeting—an ephemeral gift that reminds us to slow down and savor the now.
Pause for Matcha: A Ritual of Calm
After immersing yourself in spring’s palette, it’s time to embrace another tradition rooted in serenity: sipping matcha.
In the garden café or from a local tea house, order a matcha latte—a rich, velvety blend of finely ground green tea leaves whisked into steamed milk. The color is stunning: a deep, earthy green topped with delicate latte art, echoing the garden's artistry.
Matcha isn't just beautiful—it's profoundly nourishing. This centuries-old Japanese tea is revered for its benefits to the mind-body connection. It is the perfect pairing for your day at Descanso.
The Science Behind the Calm
So, why does matcha make you feel so calm and focused?
The secret lies in its unique blend of bioactive compounds:
L-Theanine
This amino acid is abundant in matcha and is known to promote relaxation without drowsiness. It stimulates alpha brain waves, which are associated with a state of "alert calmness"—the same brain waves observed during meditation and flow states (Yokogoshi et al., 1998).
Caffeine
Matcha contains about 35 mg of caffeine per gram, offering a gentler boost than coffee. When combined with L-theanine, it delivers sustained focus and energy without the jittery crash (Camfield et al., 2014).
Catechins (EGCG)
These powerful antioxidants help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. In particular, Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has been studied for its role in reducing anxiety and improving cognitive function (Unno et al., 2018).
Together, these elements support clarity, mood stabilization, and even cardiovascular health.
Matcha as a Daily Ritual for Mental Wellness
Incorporating matcha into your daily life can be more than a beverage choice—it can become a grounding practice. Every step encourages mindfulness, from its earthy aroma to the calming ritual of whisking. Researchers have found that tea rituals, especially when involving matcha, can improve emotional regulation and reduce stress (Steptoe et al., 2007).
So the next time you feel overwhelmed, make yourself a matcha, close your eyes, and imagine those blooming gardens. Superfood Science Matcha packet-to-go makes it convenient, as you can take it with you and prepare a fresh, delicious, cold, or hot matcha green tea.
The Visual Bliss of Spring in LA
Your senses are not the only ones being treated—your camera will thank you, too.
In every corner of Descanso Gardens, there’s a photo-worthy scene. From the reflection of cherry blossoms in a still pond to the symmetrical perfection of a rose in bloom, it’s as if nature is posing just for you. The garden’s Japanese aesthetic, with its bridges and koi ponds, offers a peaceful contrast to LA’s urban energy.
Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just capturing moments on your phone, this spring escape is a visual feast.
Final Thoughts: Where Nature Meets Stillness
Spring at Descanso Gardens is more than a botanical show—it’s a reminder of the beauty in stillness. When you pair that serenity with a warm cup of matcha, you’re not just witnessing nature—you’re participating in its rhythm.
In a city that rarely slows down, this garden offers a sacred pause. So bring your camera, bring your favorite mug, and give yourself the gift of presence. Because here, among blossoms and matcha, the world slows down just enough to let you breathe.
References
- Camfield, D. A., Stough, C., Farrimond, J., & Scholey, A. B. (2014). Acute effects of tea constituents L-theanine, caffeine, and epigallocatechin gallate on cognitive performance and mood. Nutritional Neuroscience, 17(6), 262–270. https://doi.org/10.1179/1476830513Y.0000000074
- Steptoe, A., Gibson, E. L., Vounonvirta, R., Williams, E. D., Hamer, M., & Wardle, J. (2007). The effects of tea on psychophysiological stress responsivity and post-stress recovery: a randomised double-blind trial. Psychopharmacology, 190(1), 81–89. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-006-0573-2
- Unno, K., Suzuki, Y., Takamori, N., Takabayashi, F., & Maeda, K. (2018). L-Theanine, a Unique Amino Acid in Green Tea, and Its Relaxation Effect in Humans. Nutrients, 10(10), 1360. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10101360
- Yokogoshi, H., Kobayashi, M., Mochizuki, M., & Terashima, T. (1998). Effect of L-theanine on brain monoamines and striatal dopamine release in conscious rats. Neurochemical Research, 23(5), 667–673. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1022458625181