Trees – Saving Each Other and the Planet

Trees are revered for their hidden power of improving the lands capacity to adapt to climate change. Here in the Okanagan Valley, in British Columbia’s interior, the majestic Ponderosa Pines have been cherished since ancient times. In the foreground, you see the connection point between the strong resilient pine, and the way in which it supports the weaker older pine through the attachment of its roots and trunk.

 

These impressive, mature Ponderosa Pines not only look beautiful with their deep yellow-orange, puzzle-shaped bark, and long green needles, but also capture carbon dioxide and release oxygen, thereby improving our air quality. They stabilize the soil, and they support the wildlife. As an artist that loves the outdoors, I find that hiking through our valley forests is like entering a sanctuary, under the protection of these fragrant trees. Forest Bathing has become one way to restore our immune system, which has a positive influence on our physical and emotional health.