If you are looking for relief from congestion or simply to open your breath, Beech is the tree for you.
Walking the forest I first noticed this in 2020 and since I have continued to engage with this wonderful tree.
The Beech is found in forests in North America, somewhat less as a tree planted on properties. Its smooth trunk gives it away. It also does not shed its leaves in winter showing a golden color in the forest. Its leaves are almond-shaped with small spikes along the outer edges, reaching 3-6 inches in length.
I noticed this extraordinary gift on a beautiful spring day. It was warm and I stepped off the trail into a small group of trees in the shade. As I placed my hand on a young Beech tree maybe 20 years old I found it cool to the touch. I immediately sensed a wave of fresh cool air around the tree where I was standing and breathed this air in. It cooled my entire body and my lungs allowing more capacity and expansion of the airway. After several breaths, I stepped away from the tree and then back into its space again placing my hand on the trunk. I felt the same sensation which had not been as strong when I stepped away.
Continue reading “Beech, The Tree of Breath”