Lessons in Nature – What We Can Learn From Trees

Take a deep breath in….and now slowly exhale.  Going back to your breathing can be an excellent technique to relax and center yourself.

Life is full of joyous occasions, and little annoyances.  Throughout the day we can easily get caught up in the highs and the lows, wondering why we are emotionally exhausted at the end of the day.

While the emotional roller coaster we find ourselves on day to day may be tiring, it does not need to exhaust us.  There is a way to replenish our energy level with one simple exercise.

Breathing.  Deep breath in…..and exhale.

Do you feel the difference?  Slowing down and drawing attention to your breath is a simple way to be present and mindful of the current state of your body.

How does this small act help day to day?

While we rush around to get things done, we lose touch with ourselves emotionally and physically.  We push through headaches and heartbreaks as though they are tasks on our to-do list.

If we are not in touch with our own feelings, how can we even come close to those of others?  This disconnect can cause conflict and increase tension in the home, office, even on the playground.

So while the suggestion I offer is a quick solution that can be applied while reading this blog, I do suggest you take it to the next level.

With nature as our greatest teacher, let’s learn a lesson from the trees.

Next time you have a few minutes, sit with the trees.  If possible, surround yourself with them in the middle of a forest.

Observe their existence.

They root themselves firmly in the Earth, breathing in and out all day long.  They bask in the sunlight, nourish themselves with the rain.  When a big wind comes, they stay grounded, stand tall, and remain flexible ready to take whichever blow comes their way.

Next time you find yourself in the middle of a stressful situation, just think of what a tree would do, and how it might survive the storm.

Do you find trees provide stress relief?  Leave a comment below or connect through social media.