A return to the roots of nature

In today's fast-paced world, where technology and everyday stress often take centre stage, many of us have lost touch with nature. We rush through streets filled with appointments and obligations, while the trees outside lead their mysterious existence.

However, forests and gardens harbour an ancient magic – the magical connection between humans and nature that is worth rediscovering. The healing powers of plants and the moving legends about the magic of trees are not just stories from another time. They offer us the chance to live more holistic lives and find the balance we so desperately need.

Magical forests are the guardians of ancient knowledge

The forests of our ancestors were habitats for animals and plants, as well as places full of mysticism and meaning. The ancient Celts believed that every tree had its own power and soul. Oak, ash and beech were not just sources of wood to them – they also symbolised strength, healing and wisdom. In the Druid tradition, contemplating trees played a central role. It was believed that every tree had a story to tell. These stories were passed down through the centuries, teaching humanity to live in harmony with nature.

Imagine our ancestors sitting beneath the canopy of an ancient oak tree, listening to its whispers and uncovering the secrets of the universe. This connection to nature is often lost in today's world of concrete and noise. However, magical forests invite us to pause and rediscover nature's incredible gifts. When we set out to explore these ancient forests, we immerse ourselves in the depths of nature and the deepest layers of our own being.

Your garden is your own piece of paradise

It's no coincidence that gardens have always been considered places of peace and tranquillity. They are retreats where we can connect with nature. Plants reveal their magic in a special way in our gardens. Here, we can play an active role by sowing, planting and nurturing. Every seedling carries the promise of new life, and caring for plants allows us to experience nature's true healing power.

There is something calming and inspiring about working with plants. As we dig in the earth and breathe in the fresh scents of soil and greenery, we can leave the stresses of everyday life behind. The process of growth, both in plants and in ourselves, has a special magic that is often overlooked. Ancient customs associated with plants can also be fascinating. The importance of herbs in traditional medicine and the use of flowers in rituals are interesting topics that remind us that we are part of something greater.

When we create our own little paradise, we also learn to take responsibility for our environment. Gardens are living, breathing spaces that provide a habitat for many creatures. Harmonising our little patch of earth with nature is a step towards overcoming the rigid boundaries between humans and nature. We learn that everything is connected and that caring for plants means caring for ourselves, too.

Nature and holistic thinking: recognising the connection

We urgently need to remember that we are only part of a much larger whole. Nature is not just the backdrop to our lives – it is our habitat. We need to start viewing it as a fragile ecosystem. This holistic way of thinking, which recognises the interconnectedness of all living beings and ecosystems, is essential. When we focus on the healing power of trees and plants, we realise that they have healing properties and can also hold deeper spiritual significance.

Each tree, flower and leaf plays its own role in nature's grand scheme. The importance of biodiversity is becoming increasingly clear: we need species diversity to maintain a stable ecosystem. The destruction of forests and the disappearance of many plant species have devastating consequences for our climate and environment. Therefore, when we talk about the magic of nature, we must remember that it comes with responsibility. It is our duty to preserve nature's heritage and revive the ancient traditions associated with tree magic.

We must learn to respect nature and recognise our dependence on it. When we see sick trees and damaged landscapes, we should ask ourselves how we can help. This is where holistic thinking comes in, helping us to understand the bigger picture and accept that our well-being is inextricably linked to that of nature.

It is time to rediscover the forgotten magic of trees and plants

We must stop viewing forests and gardens merely as decorative backdrops to our lives. Instead, we should see ourselves as part of a living, breathing system. Every time we hug a tree or breathe in the scent of a flower, we should remember that we are not alone, but part of a vast community of living beings.

Let us call for a revival of ancient traditions and knowledge about the healing powers of plants! Perhaps we can develop a spiritual connection with nature as well as an aesthetic one. We can learn to understand the language of trees and plants and learn from them. This reconnection with nature has enormous potential for healing, growth and harmonious coexistence.

The next time you go for a walk in the woods or work in the garden, stop and listen to the birds singing and the leaves rustling. Immerse yourself in the magic of the surrounding plants and trees, and recognise the healing power of nature! Doing so will enrich your life and help protect and preserve of our wonderful planet.

© 'A return to the roots of nature. The mysticism of trees and plants in harmony with the natural world': An article by Pressenet (translated by Izabel Comati), 07/2025. Image credit: Willows on the riverside path, CC0 (Public Domain Licence).