ROOTED MINDS
Friends With Trees.
Overview.
Duration: 3 minutes
This is a solo activity where you will interact with the tree personally. Find a quiet spot for yourself to sit and lie down. Make yourself comfortable and become one with the tree.
Benefits.
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Relieves stress, rumination and anxiety
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Reduce depressive symptoms
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Increases vigor
Concept.
Trees have families: The majority part of tree life occurs underground. One teaspoon of soil may contain several kilometres of string-like hyphen which forms “Internet of the Forest”. All trees are connected through a massive single network.
Trees have a language: Trees have feelings, they feel pain, emotions such as fear. Trees can form bonds like an old couple where one looks after the other.
Trees have friends: Trees are of one species, they are not competitors. Trees support each other. For example, if a tree is attacked by insects, it warns others.
Trees have a memory: An ancient stump is still considered alive and this is because their roots are still connected to its neighbors.
Instructions.
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Explore the tree: Gaze at the tree for five minutes. What does it tell you about itself? Trees belong to species and have histories, families, health issues, and unique qualities. Lean against the tree, touch the tree, hug the tree. What knowledge does it share with you?
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Take your shoes off and carefully lay down. Find a place to sit or lie safely and enjoy the view.
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Tell the tree a story: Share a secret, your dreams, a prayer, or send a message to a loved one.
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Meditate with the tree: Do this either sitting or lying down, breathe, and exchange oxygen and energy with the tree.
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Finally, stretch your body with the tree: Use the tree as a support to stretch your back, arms, legs, and torso.
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Well done for completing “Friends with Trees”! You’ve done well in improving your mental wellness for the day! Please do remember to write down your thoughts and feelings at the end of this activity! Goodbye!