GROUNDED IN THE FOREST


Weeks have passed since I have been able to be outside in nature, this poem reflects our need to ground our energy in the earth. Thanks to Chris Knight for the photograph.


GROUNDED IN THE FOREST

In the eye of my mind I travel
swiftly to the green forest, liberated
to dwell in peace with the tree family,
deep rooted in the living earth,
their canopies spreading filtered shade,
strong boughs embracing the sky light.

I stand soaked in wood aura,
the scent of damp leaf and herbal moss
tranquilise as warm sun strokes my
pale cheeks, starved of radiance.
A breath of wind ripples summer leaves,
murmuring like a cloud of moths’ wings.

Bending low I fiddle with tight laces,
pull off my boots, stripping thick socks,
to stand barefoot on the forest path, cool
seeping into soft skin, pampered, protected,
I wriggle freed toes, rock stiffened heels,
bide time until belief quells my wariness.

Step after cautious step I walk the woodland,
commune with sacred trees, wait in stillness
as my tired body roots deep into the subsoil,
life essence released into the tree space,
elated, I raise arms of praise to the sky as
cosmic spirit sparks and flows in the forest.



© 2019 Jacqueline Knight Cotterill.  All rights reserved. 

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