The Spirits of Trees

The Spirits of Trees

"Working with the spirit of the tree can bring us renewed energy,
powerful inspiration and deep communion."
   ____ Philip Carr-Gomm, The Druid Tradition


      The Celts saw trees as sacred powers, mediators between the worlds, with their roots penetrating the depths of the Underworld and their branches straining at the ceiling of the apparent world.  Druids congregated within nemetons, or sacred groves that were open to the sky, so that they might be ringed by the protective wisdom of the trees. Certain very ancient trees were virtually accorded the status of tribal ancestors, standing as sacred protectors at the center of the tribal region and venerated by everyone in that district. The laws against laying blade against these trees were particularly severe.
     We may also be able to work with the powers of the trees, if we approach them cooperatively. Some people take their troubles to a particular tree and gain refreshment and solace from its company; others derive inspiration from sitting at the foot or in its branches; still others have discovered that trees are truly mediators between the worlds, living bridges between our apparent world and the unseen realms of the otherworld. When we approach a tree, we need to slow down our breathing, slow down our rapid pace, our mental busyness in order to be attuned to the spirit of the tree itself. Without touching it, we slow down and then put our intentions, greeting the tree and then sitting own by it, or - with its permission - standing against its trunk. Then we sing or croon quietly to it, leaving speech alone. With our heart, we ask the tree to show us part of its nature. (It will take many visits to know its full nature.) We listen and give thanks. Even when we are just passing a tree, not visiting, we can still send out a greeting to it.

"Begin to make the acquaintance of a chosen tree near you."
[From The Celtic Spirit by Caitlin Matthews]