Winter Walks

Winter in nature holds a slow, peaceful energy. It is a nice retreat inward. The evergreen tree canopies protect one from the chilly winds and raindrops while the deciduous trees highlight the sky and reveal abandoned squirrels and bird nests. Tree trunks and branches glow enthusiastically with electric green mosses with the occasional speck of flaky lichen and unique mushrooms. The fallen leaves that lay thick upon the ground are not only food for all living plants, these leaves protect many living creatures including native salamanders and frogs who are sleeping. Be a cautious, gentle, and kind steward when roaming leaf piles in nature, so as to not disturb these creatures.

After heavy rains, the streams gush with momentum while ponds grow wider and deeper. It’s invigorating to listen to water’s robust roar while intriguing to hear a faint trickle. It is especially soothing to sit and observe surrounding reflections in still waters like ponds. It is as if the water is listening to everything around it.

There are many living beauties within nature’s winter landscape. It requires one to pause, explore, and focus closely to see them. The sweet aroma of evergreen boughs is delightful and the dank fragrance of wet, rotting leaves is oh so memorable. Maybe, one just wants to wander or sit.

Winter in nature allows time to witness your own being and to hug a tree in privacy.