There is something very grounding about trees. They are solid, stationary and huggable at all times. And, with deep roots firmly in the soil and branches reaching out and growing, trees are a life force and we have a lot to learn from them.
We think one of the most admirable traits of the tree is its resilience – they thrive through all four seasons, withstand harsh conditions and extreme weather, and can live thousands of years. When life feels overwhelming, instead of getting lost in the forest (although if intentional, this can be wonderful too!), be like a tree – ground yourself, soak up the good around you, be patient, grow, give, make a lasting impact, and learn to stay centered so you can withstand the mixed weather of life with grace and gratitude.
We hope you find the links below as fascinating as we do, and that they inspire and motivate. Let’s do more to protect (and pay attention to) our trees. We need them, they need us…science even tells us we have a lot in common.
Trees have a heartbeat! Scientists discovered that trees have a pulse (actually!), it is just much slower than ours, “beating” once every two hours, and instead of regulating blood pressure, it regulates water pressure. They even stretch and go to sleep at night!
Trees feel love and pain! German forest ranger, best-selling author, and tree whisperer, Peter Wohlleben describes trees as social beings that can talk to one another and have relationships. Wohlleben says that trees communicate through their own social network that he calls the “wood wide web”.
A free spa-like treatment…forest bathing! Forest bathing has scientifically-proven health benefits including boosted immune function, reduced blood pressure, and reduced stress. Also known as Shinrin-yoku, forest bathing is the cornerstone of preventative health care and healing in Japan (it can be where you are too!).
Plant a tree at Bela Farm! By sponsoring the planting of trees at Bela Farm (just an hour from Toronto), we are investing in a healthier and greener earth in every way, while supporting the creation of a local communal space that will be visited and enjoyed by students and families for years to come. Plant a tree today in honour of someone’s birthday, or any special occasion. It’s the gift that truly keeps on giving.
Get some business perspective from trees! As an entrepreneur looking at other businesses, it’s easy to see what flourishes above ground, but it’s hard to see what’s under the surface. We created The Borden Business Tree to serve as a reminder to maintain meaningful connection to what you are doing daily!
