Student Development
12 Jun 2025

Tasting the Present: Mindfulness through Coffee Brewing

Hot water gently pours over the coffee grounds, releasing aroma with each rising steam. Every step is a moment of mindful brewing.

As the soft aftertaste of Arabica lingered on their palates, participants closed their eyes, letting quiet reflection wash over them, attuned to the gentle rhythm of the rain outside.

On a rainy afternoon, UC students gathered for the heartwarming Coffee Healing Workshop, a blend of mindfulness and coffee brewing, organised by the College Student Wellness Programme.


Students attentively observe each step of the brewing process, appreciating the care behind every perfect cup.

The session began with an introduction to mindfulness, guiding participants to slow down, focus on the present moment, and observe their thoughts and emotions without judgment. This was followed by a brief exploration of coffee and a hand-brewing demonstration.

From listening to the rhythmic pour of water, feeling the warmth of the cup, noticing the rich hues of the brew, to inhaling the aroma and savoring the nuanced flavors, each step encouraged participants to embrace the present. Through this sensory journey, they gently turned inward, quietly connecting with their emotions, and attuning to the subtle needs of body and mind.

As the final slurp of coffee left a gentle aftertaste, participants were guided into a mindfulness practice, anchoring themselves in the moment. The workshop concluded with a reflective session, where participants expressed their thoughts and feelings. One participant shared,

“I used to think slowing down was a waste of time, but today, I realized how meaningful and serene it can be.”

United College extends hearfelt thanks to LoveXpress, a charitable organisation dedicated to nurturing and empowering autistic individuals to integrate into society, for hosting this meaningful experience for UC students.


Participants shared their mindfulness journey through a hand-drawn visual, capturing the thoughts and emotions that surfaced during coffee brewing.

Whether you joined as a coffee enthusiast or simply sought a moment of calm, we hope each participant left with a sense of serenity—gentle yet lasting, much like the lingering aroma of a perfectly brewed coffee.