Plant more trees and restore the planet

TREES are the most sacred form of life, as well as one of the most beautiful.

The book of Genesis appears to tell us of their importance, surely we could return to Eden by planting it?

Trees provide us not only with oxygen, but clean the air we breathe and also absorb pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, ammonia, sulphur dioxide and ozone.

By removing CO2 from the atmosphere and locking it up, trees help to combat climate change.

Recent studies have found that trees may be the best way to stabilise our climate.

Trees maintain local water sources.

Trees hold water, prevent flooding, restore underground reservoirs and maintain water vapour in the air, increasing the chance of rainfall and reducing drought and desertification.

Forests protect wildlife and animals, and strengthen the ecosystem, as well as helping to provide a stable habitat for endangered species such as the red squirrel and other animals.

Trees are fundamental to the survival of many species.

Planting trees helps create a seed source for the future.

The health benefits of trees, both physical and mental, are thus fundamental and revolutionary.

They unite with humans through symbiosis – we need them to breathe, and their spiritual aspect is noted within Druidism and Paganism.

Two charities directly involved in the planting of trees which have crossed my path are Trees for Life and Woodland Trust.

Maybe we should all go out and plant a few trees, either by volunteering or donating to the cause.

Perhaps this is the physical and spiritual medicine we need, as well as the foundation stone of philosophy.

Could they also be our spiritual guardians as well?