Have you ever stopped to watch how trees handle storms, harsh winters, or blazing summers? I find it comforting, and honestly quite inspiring, to see how they endure and thrive, no matter what challenges come their way. Trees have an uncanny ability to adapt, recover, and persevere—qualities we can all learn from as we navigate our own ups and downs.
We each have a favourite tree at Tula Vida Ranch that we go and visit regularly. I (Sally) have even written it some poems, which I may share at some point. What is it that feels so comforting about being next to a tree?
Deep roots: stability in uncertainty
Trees grow roots that anchor them strongly to the earth. Even when winds are fierce, these roots hold them steady. Standing next to them can steady us too.
For us, building strong relationships and values acts as our root system. It’s these unseen connections—friends, family, passions—that help us remain grounded during turbulent times. And sometimes, when these feel shaky, we do too.
Roots also allow trees to reach the nutrients they need, even in poor soil. Likewise, we too can seek support or new skills when life feels difficult. Sometimes it means digging deep, asking for help, or finding inner reserves we didn’t realize we had. And trees can remind us of this.
You might like: Can Nature Really Help Us Recover from Stress and Burnout?
Bending, not breaking: flexibility is strength
Have you noticed how some trees sway gracefully in the wind, while stiff branches are more likely to snap? Flexibility is a superpower in nature and in life. By adapting to new circumstances and being open to change, we give ourselves a better chance to recover from setbacks.
This doesn’t mean we deny hardship; just like trees, we acknowledge the storm, adjust our posture, and wait for calmer days. Embracing change, rather than resisting it, helps us nurture resilience.
We teach here about building a flexible and resilient nervous system – one that can handle the stress and challenges. It’s not about avoiding them, or even wishing they didn’t happen. It’s about creating the architecture in our own systems that can sail us through them unscathed.
Renewal and growth: embracing new beginnings
Every year, trees shed old leaves and grow new ones. Loss and renewal are part of their cycle, just as they are in our lives. Being resilient means accepting that endings are often necessary for new growth.
If we can let go of what no longer serves us, we make space for fresh opportunities and experiences. Nature’s quiet persistence reminds us: resilience isn’t about avoiding hardships, but growing through them stronger than before.
As you can see, trees are a great metaphor for us in the work we can do! Where is your favourite tree? If you don’t have one yet, maybe look out for the one that is watching over you…
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