trees as therapists: (re)turning to the medicines of the land

when we think about supporting our wellness, we often look to people, practices, or programs, and forget about the powerful teachers that stand quietly beside us–rooted in place, offering their wisdom unconditionally. the land–and all the plant nations that live within it–carry teachings that have sustained us for generations. 

trees are transformers. they can absorb carbon dioxide and other pollutants from the air and soil, filter water, and stabilize stressed soil. as they do this, they release oxygen and purify the air. and just as they filter what is harmful from the environment, they can help us filter what is no longer serving us–mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. 

when we sit against a tree, we’re entering into relationship with a being who knows how to take what is heavy and transform it into something lighter. when we sit amongst the trees, we ground ourselves and become better attuned to the medicines and wisdoms within and around us. 

many of our Indigenous teachers, like Gordon Bruyere, remind us that connecting with the land and our plant kin is a sustainable and decolonizing form of mental health and wellness support. Indigenous psychologies have always understood that wellness is relational–that we heal in connection with the land, not apart from it. 

so, if you’re moving through something difficult or challenging, find a tree that calls to you. ask for their help, lean in, and allow their medicine to support you. the land is always in conversation with us. the trees are always listening. they are remarkably gifted therapists.