Day 16 - Trees

Today I invite you to think about trees. Not only am I going to ask you to ponder the amazing beings we call trees, I am going to ask you to tap into your tree nature.

First of all, trees and humans have a very cool relationship. Sometimes I meditate with my back against a magnificent giant oak in Logan Circle. As I breathe in, I'm mindful of the tree gifting me with oxygen and as I breathe out, I offer my breath in gratitude. The earth sustains us like this in so many ways. This act of taking care of each other is a form of sacred reciprocity. This is a good place to start in rediscovering how to be in relationship to the planet, which is our home.

Practice Options

• Reflect on this poem by Angela Boto.

Some people when they see a tree, see a tree.

Some people when they see a tree, come to life.

Some people when they see a tree, see a being.

Some people when they see a tree, listen to it.

Some people when they see a tree understand.

Yesterday I saw a tree, I wanted to listen and understand,

But the tree hugged me and led me to its roots

and from its roots to the roots of all the trees.

And from there to the vibration of minerals

And to the song of the deep waters

And then he took me dancing in the heartbeat of the earth.

Some people when they see a tree,

They are the tree.

• Hang out with a tree today. Sit in its shade and enjoy its company. Share sacred reciprocity. Listen with your ears, listen with your heart, listen with your body. Here's a more formal version of this exercise from Listening to Trees.

Pick a tree.

Commit to return to it again and again.

Bring an enthusiastic openness of your senses to the tree.

Don’t think this will lead to enlightenment, insight, or sacrament.

Try to visit the tree in various weather conditions.

Notice how different people interact with the tree.

Notice your own thoughts and experiences.

• Read The Hidden Lives of Trees. It will change everything you think about trees.