There's something special about a Fall hike. They bring me so much joy! The weather in Ontario this year is exceptional, and with vibrant tree colours, warmth, and the sun shining brightly, it's simply heavenly.
As I enter the forest, I enter a school of deep learning and beauty. I feel the offering of wisdom, strength, and healing energy surround me.
As my feet touch the ground, I imagine roots going deep into the earth and reaching the nourishment and support of Mother Earth.
In the Fall, the trees remind me that change is a part of life. Watching the leaves gracefully fall or flutter to the ground reminds me that change can be beautiful when we remain open and avoid trying to control the process.
Each tree whispers in my ear, "It's okay to let go and be here now."
The tree doesn't attempt to alter its colours to fit in. No tree is trying to be like the other. As a result, the forest resembles a beautiful piece of art—one of a kind and unique.
We are reminded that it's okay to express ourselves authentically. We are exactly who and where we are meant to be.
There's a palpable tranquility in the air. The energy feels introspective, preparing for winter—a time for stillness and reflection. It feels effortless to be here now, breathe deep, and receive the nourishment.
When I witness bare trees, I don't perceive weakness or fragility. I see strength. I see beauty, openness, and a willingness to be fully seen.
These trees show and teach me that it is not a weakness when I feel vulnerable and exposed. It is beautiful, a time of transformation.
So, as we enter a new season, may we flow with Mother Nature and learn from her.
Can we practice staying grounded in the now amidst change in our inner and outer worlds?
Imagine our nervous system is like the trunk of our tree. It holds us up and is solid and flexible. There is less reactivity and a greater capacity to respond to the changing weather conditions and situations in our lives. We can remain rooted and secure where we stand.
“Autumn teaches us the beauty of letting go. Growth requires release — it’s what the trees do.”
~ ka’ala
This Fall, take time to go inward, reflect, and prepare for the winter ahead. I encourage you to step away from the busyness of your day-to-day life, if only for a few moments, to head into nature. Find a path, go for a walk, sit in stillness in your backyard.
Allow yourself to take in your surroundings, breathe a little more deeply and let your shoulders slowly release and fall. Take a few moments to decompress and align with your center.
You are exactly who you are meant to be.
Thank you, Mother Earth, Gaia. Thank you, trees. You are such beautiful teachers. You have a way of speaking gently and touching my soul so deeply.
Love,
Diane