More Adventures With Trees

Another March Posts About Growing Things

Photo by Hannah Murrell on Unsplash

Today is another March post that explores growing things. In these challenging times it is good to remember the practices that keep us grounded and connected and growing. This post is about a simple but powerful practice I was introduced to several years ago and continue to practice regularly.

Several years ago I was invited to be present at a gathering in Mississippi that took place at a home and barn surrounded by miles of beautiful southern woods. My hosts were absolutely amazing people, actively engaged in environment preservation and educational justice, and one of the only people I’ve met that regularly and with great sincerity used the word “gobsmacked”- such a great expression! The day before the gathering, several friends arrived early to participate in an experience of forest bathing. Forest bathing is a Japanese practice. It involves spending time in nature, particularly forests, with the purpose of enhancing well-being by connecting with the natural world. On our experience our lovely guide took us on a long walk, stopping along the path to do a variety of practices that opened the senses and connected us more deeply with the natural world around us. At one bend on the trail, she asked us wander carefully in the surrounding forest. We were to take our time and look for an interesting tree. When we found a tree we felt drawn to, we were to approach the tree and introduce ourselves. After introducing ourselves to the tree, we instructed to then breathe and be still, opening our hearts and listen. When the encounter felt complete, were to honor the “conversation” with a ritual of gratitude.