Tree yoga

'Every species of tree affects the landscape that it is part of, and the human soul too. The tree's power to do this, however, is not necessarily determined by its physical size. The modest appearance of the elder is a great example of this.

'Being small and generally multi-stemmed, it looks more like a bush than a tree. Yet its legend is remarkable. It appears in more myths, stories and folk tales than some of the 'great' trees that dominate the landscape.'

It is believed that every part of the elder tree can be used to heal the human being. Elderflowers break fevers and are generally calming, the berries are loaded with vitamins and strengthen the immune system. The book goes on: 'Northern European folklore associates this tree with the compassionate, nourishing and healing side of the earth spirits. In German-speaking countries it was common, until the beginning of the 20th century, to see people taking their hats off to the elder tree as they walked past.'

With such history and background, it is understandable then that the authors suggest the key words to attune yourself to the spiritual world of the elder tree would be abundance, spiritual nourishment, trust and gratitude.

Other trees:

Birch
New beginnings, protection, innocence and the joy of living

Elm
Communication, love, letting go and freedom

Pine
Self-discipline, endurance, courage and grace

Rowan
Inspiration, the voice of the heart and protection

Beech
Concentration, preservation, alignment and discipline

Oak
Life energy, strength and determination

To purchase a copy of Tree Yoga by Satya Singh and Fred Hageneder, published by Findhorn Press, visit www.findhornpress.com