Life Lessons From Muir Woods

In July, our girls were off to Europe for two weeks to visit their best friends so, Neal and I, decided to visit California. It’s been a long-time dream to visit San Fransisco and Muir Woods. After three days in San Fransisco, we headed out to Muir Woods and Napa Valley.

I knew Muir Woods was going to be a magical and sacred place to be in. What I didn’t expect was the deep silence and stillness that descended upon us as we entered the forest. I don’t think I can find the words to communicate what it feels like to walk among 1000-year-old trees that can be as tall as 350ft. Humbled doesn’t begin to describe it.

As we began our hike, we stumbled upon a small group of people listening to a park ranger explaining about the redwoods. We stopped to listen and that’s when I learned about the life secrets that have allowed redwoods to live up to 2000 years.

• A large redwood tree needs 500 gallons of water each day. Sounds like a lot? Well, it is and the trees get their water from the rain and fog which is prevalent in the area.
  
• The root system of the redwood tree is surprisingly shallow – no deeper than 6-12 feet – but the major roots can typically spread 50 to 80 feet. One of the ways the trees can remain upright is by growing close together with other redwood trees and interlocking root systems.
  
• Their bark which can be 6-12 inches thick contains tannin which protects against fire, insects, fungus, and diseases. No insect can kill a redwood.
  
• One of the keys to the survival of the redwood is its regenerative abilities. When redwood is damaged or injured, it develops a lumpy outgrowth at its base. Saplings may sprout from these burls.
  
• Fallen redwood logs serve as nurseries for the growth of new trees.
  
• Most of the height of a redwood tree is gained during the first 100 years. The mature redwoods tend to lose their lower limbs. This creates a canopy that is characteristic of the redwood forest. These canopies provide support for a variety of creatures and prevent loss of moisture.

The more I listened the more I could see timeless messages for well-being and growth emerging. It appears that what works for redwoods can definitely work for us. That includes:

• Finding the environment that supports us and thriving in it – If you’re feeling stunted and held back, check where you are. Is your environment supporting what you are trying to accomplish and who you are trying to be?
  
• Developing a strong community – We are not meant to be alone and do it all by ourselves. Finding your tribe and learning to give and receive will make you stronger and more resilient.
  
• Giving back – What are your special gifts? What makes you a valuable members of your community? Share your strengths and wisdom, become a mentor, seek opportunities to help and give back.
  
• Taking care of your health and well-being – There isn’t much you can do when your health is compromised. Take care of your body, exercise regularly, rest, eat right for you, hydrate, and take time to pause and reflect.
  
• Standing Tall – To maintain perspective we need to stand tall and look at a situation from above. Stand tall at the center of your life and take the view in. How does your world look from above?
  
• Protecting ourselves; developing “thick skin” – Our heart may be in the right place but this will not always protect us. Being kind, generous, and open doesn’t mean that all are welcome through the doors. Use your discrimination and choose wisely. Evaluate your boundaries and don’t hesitate to let people know when something is not working for you.
  
• Regenerating often – Things will not always work out the way you intended them to. Life happens and you may find yourself feeling uncertain, anxious, or demotivated. Take the time you need to regenerate and use your resources to heal and strengthen.
  

What of the above rings true to you? Which one of the life secrets of the redwoods are you ready to adopt?