I use the term Standing People to refer to both our tree Relations and our smaller Relations among the plant kingdom. In general, Standing People act as givers and providers. They recognize the needs of others and do all they can to help supply those needs. Some Standing People provide through sustenance, such as fruit or berries. Some provide building materials and a way to keep warm. Some carry cures and medicines for various ailments. And still others provide healing on the emotional level.

We can also learn from the Standing People how to be flexible and adapt to the conditions that exist around us. They teach us how to remain determined, seeking nourishment and yet still remaining balanced.

ASH is peace of mind through protection. It helps to overcome mental barriers and obstructions. Ash promotes good health and the recovery from illness. Ash is flexibility and prosperity.

ASPEN is the tree of nursing. It keeps one safe from the known and the unknown. It guards mental well-being and resources. Aspen is eloquence and elegance; loyalty and harmony.

BASSWOOD is the tree of false indentity and masks. Basswood enables one to remove the mask of life, and return to reality.

BIRCH is growth in understanding of the inner Self, others, the world and All Our Relations. The awareness that Birch brings removes restrictions and allows one to proceed. Birch is protection.

BLACK SPRUCE allows one to explore lofty ideas, connect with the Earth, and find his/her unique ways of reaching Spirit.

CHERRY is the tree of healing, rejuvenation, cleaning, and clearing. Cherry is the tree of the heart.

MAPLE is the tree of offering, giving of one's self so that others may benefit. Maple is circulation, prosperity, and sweetness.

OAK is strength and longevity. Oak increases confidence and magnifies opportunities. Oak provides security and protection. Vitality and productivity are the Medicine of Oak.

PINE is the tree of longevity, nourishment, fertility, and abundance. It allows one to become socially aware of all that is around. Pine is masculine sexuality.

REDWOOD is the Grandmother Spirit of the forests. It is unending Truth, ultimate wisdom and knowledge.

ROWAN brings protections from harm.

SYCAMORE teaches how to reach your goals.

WALNUT involves the use of intelligence and helps one to focus.

WILLOW is love and the give-and-take that is needed for a healthy relationship. It is truth and justice. Willow captures dreams and enhances journeys. The smooth flow of emotions.

BORAGE encourages trust in the healing process and the natural order of life.

COMFREY is regeneration and healing on all levels--physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional.

MINT stimulates and intensifies ones sensual nature. It purifies thought, soothes the nerves. It is the enhancement of energy, and an increase in creativity.

MUGWORT is helpful in dreaming. It balances female energies and encourages female strength. It offers protection from exterior forces when used as smudge.

MULLEIN enables one to explore the smooth and healing aspects of his/her nature.

NETTLE purifies, strengthens, heals, and keeps the flow of emotions in check.

ROSE is the flower of beauty. It also teaches of joy and sorrow, a rose between two thorns. Rose teaches to open up and let go of the emotions.

SAGE removes negativity and offers protection, healing, and balance.

SWEETGRASS calls in good spirits and serves as a Guardian. It expands ones abilities.

THISTLE aids in understanding and working with the different levels of reality.

VIOLET awakens the heart to the fullness of its feelings and helps in understanding the depths of life.

YARROW deals with the healing powers within, and inner strength.

DISCOVERYPath, Visual Guides on the Path to Self Discovery