Coffee used to be maligned as stress-inducing and spiking blood pressure. However, recent studies have hailed coffee as a good source of anti-oxidants. It boosts mood, memory, and focus; for most regular coffee drinkers there is no hike in blood pressure. Some researchers claim that coffee drinkers are less likely to get gallstones, Parkinson’s, type 2 diabetes and colon cancer. Coffee is a social thing and can mellow you out by generating positivism- a great de-stressor. 

You don’t need to read tea leaves to figure out who you are. There are coffee personalities; many of us don’t know who we are or what we want out of life. The coffee we like can provide a much-needed clue. The body doesn’t lie while the mind can rationalize anything.

According to Alan Hirsch, MD the Director of the Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation, “Today the type of coffee someone prefers really makes a social statement. With so many choices, it’s like we now have a coffee Rorschach test to gain insight into an individual’s personality.”

Since I am a people watcher who loves to drink coffee in cafes and specialty coffee shops, in addition to running stress management workshops where I listen attentively, I have conducted my own research. Here is what I have found based on my personal observation:

* Black coffee - This is for the ambitious, focused and goal-driven person who needs to get the job done.

* Cappuccino - This is for the aesthetic, witty and classy drinker.

* Steamed Latte – This is for the nurturer and often drunk by moms.

* Espresso – This is for the ultimate coffee drinker using a special cup conveying sophisticated power. Drinking espresso is a sensory experience and often follows a special meal.

* Iced coffee- This is for the laid back, spontaneous and flirty person.

* Frappachino – This is for an ice-cream lover who pretends to drink coffee - adventurous, flouts authority and is ready to enjoy.

Where do you fit in? And do you even need to fit in? I like to drink green tea too!