Connect to a tree
Objectives:
- Foster personal connection with nature<br />
- Develop embodied ecological awareness<br />
- Strengthen presence and mindfulness<br />
- Encourage reflection on human–nature relationships
Preparation:
Tools needed:
Description
This activity can help participants to slow down and to awaken their senses. Make sure people stand relaxed and alert when you read through the following instructions. Ensure it is OK just to listen and then go to the activity, they don’t need to take notes, just listen to the invitation and remember as much as they can. Optionally you may want to give these instructions while they are doing the activity, in this case, make sure to use a natural tone, and give instructions in a slow and steady rhythm. You may alter the sequence of the instructions, or choose only parts of it.
“Choose a tree that awakens your interest, one that speaks to you, that ignites your curiosity. Stand in front of the tree. Take a few minutes to ground yourself with your eyes closed. Scan throughout your body parts from the soles of your feet to the top of your head, recognize your bodily sensations, breath through them and let your full body relax. Feel your connection to the ground.
Then open your eyes, and observe the tree in front of you. See how it is rooted in the ground, how its trunk meets the surrounding plants. Feel your own connection to the ground and imagine you are also rooted deep into the forest soil.
Observe the trunk of the tree, with eyes open, then closed. Touch the trunk and feel the texture and shapes. See the details and patterns, scars and imprints on the tree’s skin.
Observe the branches as they strive towards the sky. Notice the movements of the branches in the wind, and their sounds. Feel your own body erected and stretching upwards, taking the space, move your arms and touch the thin air around you.
Observe buds, blossoms, or leafs, maybe fruits, discover their shapes, textures, fragrances and the energy you may sense in and around them. Take them in, through your eyes, your touches, your breath.
Observe life that is connected to the tree: insects, moth, fungus, plants, birds, maybe mammals. Take in the tree as a whole, try to identify its story, its species, its place in the surrounding ecosystem.
Take a step back and feel how your relationship has changed throughout the activity. In what ways is your connection different from when you first met?”
Variations
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Resources
Adaptation from treecreate.com
Comments
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