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The root of self-care.

As an avid reader and podcast listener, nearly every day I learn something new that inspires and intrigues me. More recently, something came across my radar that I still get goosebumps just thinking about.  Although there are limited studies and controversy surrounding this topic, I still find it intriguing and will keep an eye out for any future research that becomes published.  But I’m curious if you have heard this too? 



Trees have the potential to communicate with each other via a hyphae network.  Hyphae, or thread-like structures of symbiotic fungi, connect with each other through a vast network in the soil that possibly allows trees to communicate with and send vital nutrients to each other. Incredible.  There is still great debate whether the “mother-nature, caring” aspect of this hypothesized phenomenon is true, and the studies are difficult to carry out due to many factors.  But researchers have agreed that these networks do contribute to the stability and balance of the ecosystem, even if they are more selfish in nature versus lending support to other organisms.


It reminds me of the 2018 documentary, 'The Biggest Little Farm’, in which viewers were taken on the wavering journey of bringing a sustainable and regenerative farm to life.  The documentary ultimately highlights the necessity of all organisms, even those who might be initially considered an invader or predator.  Each serve a purpose, contributing to a balance and nourishment of the ecosystem so it can thrive.  And just like the aforementioned hyphae, each are selfish in nature, with survival being the ultimate goal. 


Humans are no different, even when we resist or might feel guilty.  Survival is the most basic instinct. Self-care has often been negatively viewed as “selfish” and those who participate called “self-absorbed”.   But I’m glad to see that times are changing, and we are awakening to our most basic needs.  Today, individuals are taking their health into their own hands, seeking out holistic providers who will get down to the root cause of their condition. They are more trusting of their intuition and natural instincts when something feels off.


Self-care and rest are pivotal to wellness and are becoming more mainstream.  And I believe, just like the hyphae network, our focus on self-care will not only bring stability and greater health to our own lives, but also to the ecosystem around us.  That ecosystem is our homes, our loved ones, our friends, our pets, our neighbors, our co-workers, those we serve, and the dreams we pursue.  When our needs are met and we feel supported and content, we then have a greater ability to help others as well.  We find our flow state and we flourish.  A higher vibration of energy arises and transmits.  


So, if you have been feeling called toward self-care more recently, remember this, you are human.  Survival matters most and will allow you to thrive.  It’s okay to take care of yourself.  It’s okay to do something just for you and say no to other things.  Life is about balance.  Not the kind of balance where everything is equal.  The kind of balance where everything is supported where it needs support.  If you would like help finding that balance on your path to renewal, I’d love to connect with you.  We can also then geek out over tree roots and hyphae if you would like as well.

 


Christine is a board-certified registered nurse and holistic coach with over a decade of holistic healthcare experience.  She offers one on one and group coaching sessions with a unique approach that evokes momentum and breakthroughs.   


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