The Power of Tree Hugging: Feel More Grounded, Grateful and Intuitive

When I think of tree hugging, images of hippies, deforestation, and that scene from Superstar where Molly Shannon passionately kisses and licks a tree trunk come to mind. However, I’ve discovered that the act of tree hugging, though it may seem simple, holds a profound connection to nature and its source. The transformative effects of tree hugging are not only physical but also deeply emotional. Embracing a tree grounds you in a way that can relieve stress and anxiety.

Consider the time you spend in nature and the sense of peace and calm you experience when you immerse yourself in it. Research indicates that spending just 20 minutes in a natural setting can boost your mood and reduce anxiety by up to 70%. Seventy percent! Being in nature can lower cortisol levels, muscle tension, and blood pressure, while enhancing your mood, memory, and immunity. This is researched based on those who are just in nature. So imagine how powerful it could be to touch something rooted in the Earth, like a tree, bush, or flower, while meditating with intention on that energy.

I enjoy spending time with trees that resonate with me, often those that appear strong, tall, resilient, and calm. (My favorite is right outside my front door, and I try to connect with it every time I pass by, usually 2-4 times a day.) I take several deep breaths, close my eyes, and place my hand on its sturdy trunk. I visualize the tree’s deep, grounded roots drawing life force energy from the earth and transferring that energy into my body through our connection. At this point, I usually feel a wave of energy circulating, which I visualize shooting back through my feet into the ground. This process typically takes about 30 seconds.

If the branches and time permit, I step forward, wrap my arms around the tree, and hug it. I ensure that my heart and third eye are as close to the tree as possible. I open my senses to feel the tree and the surrounding smells and sounds. I focus my energy on my root, heart, and third eye chakras for as long as needed. It’s amazing how quickly my energy replenishes (goodbye afternoon slump) and how rapidly I can elevate my frequency. This exchange fosters intense feelings of stability (root chakra), abundance and gratitude (heart), as well as heightened intuition and consciousness (third eye).

Take some time to connect with Mother Earth. Step outside and hug a tree. The rewards are immediate and plentiful.