An icon of the savannahs of Africa, the baobab tree, or “Tree of Life,” can live for over 2,000 years. It is truly a wonder to behold and even more fascinating as you learn about all its astonishing traits. Its large trunk stores water to get through dry spells, but also grows hollow to serve as a shelter for living creatures. Not only is the baobab’s fruit edible, so are its seeds, leaves, roots, flowers, and bark. Parts of the tree can be used to make medicine, oil, rope, clothing, paper, and other products. The baobab’s bark even regenerates, so it can be ethically harvested without doing the tree harm.

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After becoming transfixed by the grandeur and resourcefulness of baobabs, I chose the tree to represent Movement for Emotional Healing. I see the baobab as a symbol, a safe and nurturing place for getting started in your journey of healing. The baobab provides a sustaining and protective environment where you can take what you need until you are able to thrive on your own. Within a solid base, you can incorporate Movement for Emotional Healing as you learn to approach your trauma through getting to know the mechanics of your body in a bottom-up approach to restoration.

 

Recent studies have found these magnificent trees are being adversely affected by global warming, which is just another reason that as we work to heal our own bodies from trauma, we have to all work together to save the planet from the damage of climate change.