Healing
They’re full of magic and mystery — and they can also boost your health and happiness. Here’s how…
We all know nature is good for us — mentally, emotionally and spiritually — but our relationship with trees is especially important. Studies show that being around trees can help improve our mental health, decrease stress, and reduce the risk of respiratory disease. A recent study even revealed that people who live near trees are healthier and live longer
‘Trees are our life force,’ says Cheryl Rickman, positive psychology practitioner and author of Tree Glee: How and Why Trees Make Us Feel Better. ‘They keep us safe and they keep us alive. Trees heal our minds with the calming and uplifting effects that come from spending time in their presence. They also help heal our bodies with the remedies that come from their roots, bark, leaves and essential oils.’
Try some TREE THERAPY
These six beauties provide some incredible hidden benefits…
ENGLISH WALNUT
A very large, deciduous tree with broad, smooth leaves. It can live for over 200 years.
‘Walnuts symbolise strength, fertility, wisdom, discernment, mental clarity and power,’ says S. Theresa Dietz, author of The Complete Language of Trees.
Health benefits: Walnuts are high in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids and may help to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Eating walnuts, which are high in fibre, encourages healthy bacteria in the gut. This decreases inflammation and reduces the risk of heart disease.
TIP: To tap into the healing vibration of walnut, try Bach Flower Remedy Walnut, £8.99.
HAWTHORN
A short, thorny tree that’s part of the rose family. In Celtic mythology, the hawthorn is one of the most sacred trees. It represents love and protection, helping to open the heart so we give and receive love more freely. It’s a symbol of hope, courage, power and strength.
Health benefits: Hawthorn is a wonderful heart tonic. It can be used to treat heart and circulatory conditions such as angina, congestive heart failure, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. The flowers, fruits and leaves contain powerful antioxidants and other complex chemicals that have a healing effect on the heart and circulation.
TIP: Drink as a tea, or use as tincture. Try A. Vogel Hawthorn tincture, £11.99 for 50ml.
Why trees are good for you
● Lower blood pressure
● Improve sleep
● Accelerate healing after surgery
● Improve mental health
● Increase ability to focus
● Cardiac benefits
● Increase lung function
● Enhance immunity
● Increase energy
Branching out: 3 ways to connect
● Go running or walking through the woods and use tree stumps as exercise ai
