Tree-Hugging Meditation

A practice from Thầy

About thirty years ago, I planted three pine trees here at Plum Village. Now, they have grown tall, beautiful, and full of vitality. Whenever I go for a walking meditation, I often stop in front of each tree and bow to it. This makes me very happy. I press my cheek against the bark, inhale the fragrance of the tree, and look up at its beautiful branches, feeling the strength and freshness of the tree. I breathe in, breathe out deeply, and feel very comfortable. Sometimes, I stop there for a long time, simply to be present and play with those pine trees.

When we come into contact with trees, we receive something beautiful and fresh. Trees are truly wonderful. Even in storms, they stand firm. We can learn a great deal from trees.

Every child can find a special, beautiful tree for themselves. It could be an apple tree, an oak tree, or a pine tree. If a child stops in front of a tree and connects with it deeply, the child will feel the miraculous qualities of the tree. Taking deep breaths will help the child connect even more with the tree. Touching the tree’s trunk and breathing in and out three times will help the child feel refreshed and happy.

Afterward, if the child feels like it, they can practice tree hugging meditation. Tree hugging is a wonderful practice. When a child hugs a tree, the tree will never reject them. The child can lean on the tree for support. The tree is truly trustworthy. Every time the child wants to look at the tree or needs its shade, the tree will always be there for them.