Birch – Beginnings – Tree Spirit Wisdom

Birch – Beginnings

Genus: Betula – Family: Betulaceae

Birch trees are symbolic of the one who never stops wondering. They remind us of our childlike innocence and our inner resolve to adventure beyond the confines of the ordinary world. This ability sparks the imagination and heralds a time of new beginnings for the body, mind and soul.

Birch trees are a pioneer species because of their ability to colonize disrupted or damaged ecosystems. They were some of the first trees to appear after the glaciers receded. They can be found growing among the charred ruins of a forest devastated by fire. This represents our ability to create new beginnings, even after catastrophic events. Because they are hardy, quick growing and relatively immune to disease their appearance signals a time of improved and continued good health.

Birch will help provide energy to begin a new adventure in life.

There are approximately 60 species of birch, Betula, that belong to the larger Betulaceae (Birch) family, which includes its closest relative the Alder tree. The Birch family is also closely related to the Fagaceae (Beech) family of beech, oak and chestnut trees.

Birch trees are easily recognized by their unique bark, which peels off in strips (the only exception is gray birch). In this way, Birch encourages us to peel off the layers that hold us from moving forward. They speak to our soul as a child filled with wonder and potential so we can live out our dreams.

Birch bark has long been prized for being water-repellent, lightweight and flexible for making shelter and canoes. The trunk of a birch was used as the center pole in yurts and tee pees. The spirit of birch reminds us of the many gifts we already have that can help us create a new way of living.

Birch bark also inspired the idea of paper, which stimulated the mind to create words and symbols. In fact, the first letter in the Celtic Ogham “tree alphabet” is beithe, named for the spirit of the birch tree. The first consonant of the English alphabet is the letter B, also inspired by birch. A way to deepen our relationship with the spirit of birch is to begin writing or journaling our adventures.

Message: When birch appears, it is reminding us to reconnect with our childlike sense of wonder and innocence. It signals a time of new beginnings and adventures. Embrace this period as an opportunity for growth, renewal and initiation. Allow yourself to see life with the curious and carefree mind of a child. This will be a time of inner expansion, healing and self-discovery.

Challenge: We may be resisting change and or challenges in our life creating a sense of confusion, carelessness and or foolishness. See this as a wake-up call.

If you liked what you read and want more... you may be interested in having the actual guidebook and card deck. The 204 page full-color book is sold separately from the cards. My goal is to find a publisher who can offer this as a set. In the meantime, you can purchase either the book or cards via these links. Thank you for your support. Laural

Tree Spirit Tarot – Return to the Garden of our Soul

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