We tend to take their existence for granted and see them merely as a decorative part of the wallpaper of our lives, however trees are indispensable to our continued existence as a species. Be aware that what trees breathe out, we breathe in. Their very presence oxygenates our world and enables humanity to exist. It is said that a mature leafy tree produces as much oxygen in a season as 10 people inhale in a year.

Instructions

During this week become aware of the trees around you. There are many aspects you can attend to : e.g. the different shapes of trees, their various heights, ways of branching, colours and types of foliage. Don’t let the mind begin to analyse or evaluate (I like that tree, don’t like that one…) but just notice and appreciate trees as trees.

If you have a chance try to walk among them in a forest, wood, park or tree lined street. Examine the leaves and bark closely. Trees are the living testimony to our interconnectedness with all things in this world.

Every creature is better alive than dead, men and moose and pine trees, and he who understands it aright will rather preserve its life than destroy it.” Henry David Thoreau

How to Train a Wild Elephant & Other Adventures in Mindfulness by

These practices are adapted fromby Jan Chozen Bays. You can find out more, read my review of and purchase this book from my Mindfulness Library (page 2)

Sign Up! Spread the Word Join the Embrace Blog to receive posts via email and a FREE e-book on meditation. Just follow the instructions in the right hand column and hit ‘Follow’. If you think anyone else may enjoy having a crack at these mindfulness practices, please do let your friends know by using the social media buttons below.

