Tree Breathing

Tree Breathing

Health, Relationship & Reciprocity

One of my favorite ways to stop, slow down, and reconnect is to do a little thing I call “tree breathing”. 


Here’s the scoop:

• Head over to a tree that is calling you.

• Stand with your feet flat on the ground (barefoot is the best).

• Place your hands on the tree.

• Put your nose right up to the tree and breathe.

• As you breathe in, recognize that you are breathing in what the tree just exhaled.

• As you breathe out, whisper “thank you”.

• Stay like this for 7 breaths.

It takes about 5 minutes.  And the practice does wonders for your health and the health of the land. 


Trees emit natural chemicals called phytoncides which have been proven to boost immune function, lower blood pressure, lower cortisol levels, and improve concentration.  Additionally, when you ground with the Earth—whether through bare feet on the ground or hands on the tree—your nervous system actually attunes to the natural rhythms of the land, rebalancing your entire system by engaging your parasympathetic nervous system, the opposite of the fight or flight system that we are so often in. 


Aside from the personal benefits, it is my belief that the land deeply benefits as well.  The trees are our lifeblood.  They give us our breath, protection, and beauty.  They teach us of grace, depth, and growth.  They are our grandmothers and we so often pass right by them without recognition.  


Stopping for a few moments to breathe with the trees is an important way to acknowledge these relatives, receive what they offer, and give a little something back.