Reading Nature’s Energy: The Meaning of Leaves

One of the most enjoyable aspects of the Fall are the brilliant displays of color emanating from the trees. Did you know each tree is associated with a particular meaning and energy? Now is not only the perfect time to capture the energy and preserve leaves, but you can tailor the energy you want to work with by the various tree leaves you collect. Its also a great excuse to go for a meditative walk.

First, a little on tree energy in general. Think about the structure of a tree, for example the oak. It has a strong wide trunk and thick branches that can reach great heights of up to 100 ft. Its root system is deep and powerful providing the tree with stability, energy connection, and nutrients. The bark is thick and protective. The Cambium is the ring formed next to the bark. It shows the growth and energy of tree. A new ring is formed for each year of the tree, recording what it has experienced in its life. The flowing veins of energy and nutrients, is the Sapwood. Think of this as the vitamins, minerals, and energy that is needed for successful growth and optimal health. At the Tree's core is the Hartwood, it is what gives the tree its strength. Connecting with tree energy can help provide stability when feeling overwhelmed, aid in balancing and harmonizing the various systems in the body, healing, and provide a centered a spiritual connection. The different types of trees are also associated with specialized properties such as the willow (freedom of movement, ability to flex etc).

Select your leaves based on the type of tree, the color, the shape or a combination. Press them in a leaf press to preserve them. They can now be used in many ways. One simple way to utilize them is to make a collage and frame it. For example, you may decide to use two maple leaves with an ash leaf at the bottom center of them for love and longevity. You might decide to hang it in the southwest corner (Feng Shui relationships).

Color Meanings:
Red (Love, Action, Vitality, Strength)
Orange: Power, Change, Risk Taking
Yellow: Joy, Knowledge, Learning
Brown: Security, Grounding, Money
Green: Growth, Balance, Prosperity, Health

Some Tree meanings:
OAK: Strength, endurance, wisdom
CEDAR: Protection, Purification
ASH: Life force and Continuity, Spirit (connection to other side
MAPLE: Balance, generosity, Love
SASSAFRASS: Healing, Purification, Adaptability, Spirit (connection to the other side)
PINE– Peace, purification, resilience, eternal life

Ready to begin? Make a list of the properties you want to work with, reflect on the ways to use the leaves that would be most beneficial for you, and take a stroll through one of the many parks and nature walks. Gather your leaves and press them. If you don't have a press you can pick one up at Charmed in Company or use an old heavy book to do it for you.
If you don't want to work with the leaves as they fall, you can also carry a piece of petrified wood or Amber & Jet to connect with tree energy.
Have a HAPPY FALL

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