Tree-Hugger

Yesterday I hugged a tree
It made me feel so good
The feel of the rough bark
The ambrosial smell of wood.

I felt in touch with me
With my arms around that tree.
Feeling the calm descend
As I communed as with a friend
I had emotional release
Sensed a deep inner peace.

The tree I hugged? An oak
I’m so privileged that it spoke
To me.

Ruth Jessup

‘Hugging a tree increases levels of the hormone Oxytocin.
This hormone is responsible for feeling calm and emotional bonding.
When hugging a tree, the hormones Serotonin and Dopamine make you feel happier.’