Connecting With Trees

Allow yourself to be guided to a tree.  When you approach it, greet it.  This shows respect , because remember all living things are consciousness and a part of the whole.  Then slowly walk around the tree and see where you feel to be.  Either place your palms on the tree or rest with your back against it.  Relax your body, and allow the tension to dissipate.  Keep your knees soft, not locked and feel your feet firmly on the ground. You can also sit on the ground if you prefer. You may close your eyes if you find it easier to focus. Begin by taking a few deep breaths, in and out through the nose, pushing your belly out as you breathe in and pulling it in as you breathe out.  Then go back to your normal breathing.

Notice how your body changes as you relax.  Notice how aches and pains begin to disappear, how your digestive tract moves more freely.  You may find you start burping as you release.  Trees have a profound effect on your inner state.  Spend a little while connecting with the tree, placing your attention on your palms or your spine against the tree.  You may be able to feel how the tree moves.  If so allow your body to move with it.  Observe and enjoy all the beauty and gifts that nature offers.  Focus on using all your senses.  Listen to the sounds, smell, feel, taste.  Do your best to keep in the present moment as much as possible.  When you notice your mind has wandered, just gently bring it back.   Very quickly you are going to feel more peaceful, more calm and in general much better.

The whole effect comes from merging your energy field with the tree.  Each tree contains a certain kind of energy and this energy varies from one kind to another.  For example you may come to a pine tree feeling exhausted and leave full of energy, or come to a beech tree in turmoil, full of doubt and leave with a quiet mind.   Some encourage fluidity, another might be gentleness or openness. 

Nature really does heal you.  The best way to learn is through experience.  This is the door through which you gradually discover the truth about yourself and your world.  Entering the domain of the trees is a wonderful way to reconnect with the life force within and around you. 

When you are ready to leave, thank the tree for assisting you in healing.  It is important to acknowledge the gifts they have shared.

Share this knowledge with friends.  The more time people spend in nature communicating with it, the more peace people will have and in turn the more respect and concern for the environment they will have.

Kay Proudfoot