Hug a tree?! I do! There is something about trees that I find comforting, calming, and healing. A constant. Dependable. I love the ocean too, especially when it is wild, but I love trees even more.
Trees emanate peace. Wooded areas are hugely beneficial to our mental health. They boost our immune system and reduce stress.
Before electricity was produced, wood was the only source of energy, providing much needed fuel. With electricity in use in the modern world, trees are essential to the conservation of energy, to mitigate global warming. By producing water droplets on their leaves, trees cool the air, lowering the temperature. More trees mean less heat, which, for example, could reduce the need for air conditioners, consequently conserving energy. Trees not only release oxygen into the air, they purify gases that cause pollution and filter out small particles from the air like dust and soot, trapping them on their bark and leaves. And as it seems there is a rise in greenhouse gasses, and our planet is warming up, it is more crucial than ever to have more trees.
And here’s a fascinating fact, one acre of fully mature trees can produce enough oxygen for eighteen people a year! Trees reduce noise pollution too. Their leaves act as a jungle, thereby blocking out sound.
The sanctuary that trees provide for people, animals, and birds. Birds nesting, humans resting. Animals creating homes.
Sitting with a good book in the shade under the leafy canopy of a tree on a warm summer’s day. So uplifting and nurturing for our well-being.
I’ve always felt there is something quite magical about a tree house! Lucky kids!
Trees enable us humans to earn a living! Fruit production for one. And the cotton tree, an integral component of the textile industry. The production of furniture in every conceivable shape and size. Kitchen utensils, bowls, picture frames, garden swings, garden tools, benches, brooms, doors, door and window frames, and floorboards. Boats! The list is endless. We just have to look around our homes!
I love my table! It’s from Indonesia. There’s such a warmth to wood. I love the diversity of the grain, and the feel of it.
Here’s another fascinating fact! The colour green has a soothing effect on our eyes!
We owe a debt of gratitude to our trees. We should never take them for granted. They make our urban areas more habitable, giving us a sense of pride in our communities. They soothe and heal us in an ever-challenging world, and bring beauty and solace to our lives. They ask nothing back.