One Small Tree

When we moved into our home last year, I was feeling a little bereft.  We had left a large yard with two beautiful trees in order to move into a newer home that required less work but had a small yard and no trees. 

As spring moved into summer and then into fall, I was constantly surveying the landscape for beautiful, natural views.  One small tree fit the bill.  A lovely, bright red sugar maple grew right off the alley and I could see it from my kitchen window.  It's lovely foliage made me smile every time I glanced out.  I was smitten and calmed. I felt much better about our new location.  

It's amazing how something so small, just a bit of nature, could make me feel so much better about a big change.  As you enter a new school year, remember that connecting to the natural world makes a big difference.  Find a way to add a bit of nature and color to the lives of the people around you as they enter a time where they are inside more often.  Bring someone a flower or write them a small nature-inspired poem or note.  Show your children or students how special they are by adding a plant to their room or the classroom. Go for a walk in the forest or take a trip to an arboretum.  

Remember, feelings matter and we all need the beautiful, natural world around us to help us feel joyful, calm and energized. Social emotional health is strongly linked to the natural world around us and it can help us weather any time of big change.  

So, find your own little tree, and smile.