Even though I currently live in a city, I have certain parks and locations I can go to whenever I feel the desire to submerge myself in nature. One of my favorite things to do on my days off is to sit under a tree while streaming quiet music; allowing myself to just be present in that moment. And although I've lived in cities most of my life, I feel extremely comfortable being out in the countryside. I guess you could call me a city/country boy because I feel completely at home in both environments. In fact, I've gone on several 4-day and even 7-day solo nature retreats, spending most of that time walking outside; enjoying the earth.
Particularly the trees.
Whenever I look at a tree, I feel many things.
Foremost, I feel its power and wisdom.
I feel its strength. Yet, I feel its gentle compassion.
I feel how grounded and stable it is. Yet, I can feel its ability to remain flexible; determined to survive by adapting to all conditions.
The symbolism associated with trees across many cultures is plentiful. In some, trees are mystical and majestic and are considered ancient living beings with energy and wisdom believed to flow through them. They symbolize rebirth.
And I sincerely believe those things as well, because whenever I'm in the presence of trees, I feel stronger, grounded, and much more adaptable. I also feel more clear-minded, relaxed, energized, and balanced.
I truly believe that trees can heal by teaching us many things.
Here is something I found online that I thought was very informative:
"Indeed, research shows that trees really do have healing powers. For one thing, they release antimicrobial essential oils, called phytoncides, that protect trees from germs and have a host of health benefits for people. The oils boost mood and immune system function; reduce blood pressure, heart rate, stress, anxiety, and confusion; improve sleep and creativity; and may even help fight cancer and depression."
And yes, corny as this may sound, I'm a tree hugger. Whenever I sit under a tree, before I leave, I hug it and softly say, "Thank you. I love you."
And do you know what's magical?
I can literally feel the tree love me back.
You can actually communicate with trees. If you just listen.
-Health Benefits of Tree Hugging
Tree hugging has been shown to soothe and strengthen body and mind. Simply seeing trees makes us feel calmer, leading to lower heart rate and blood pressure. The Japanese practice of forest bathing (essentially, spending time in a forest), helps you relax and fight off disease. In Blinded by Science, Matthew Silverstone explains that every atom vibrates, and different vibrations affect behavior. A tree’s vibrational patterns have a healing, revitalizing effect, which can help us feel more grounded. Plus, hugging a tree (just like hugging a human) increases levels of oxytocin, aka the love hormone, which reduces stress and increases happiness.
So go hug a tree, breathe in the fresh air it filters for you, and notice how much calmer and stronger you feel. Spend time in nature as much as possible. It's good for you.
Below are several gorgeous photographs I found on Unsplash.
Please enjoy the beauty and healing power of trees...
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