The Banyan Tree
Connection, Resilience, and Growth
I recently finished “The Mind of Plants” for an eco therapy elective course I was taking a few weeks ago. Reading it was like walking through a forest where each plant speaks in its own unique language. This plant communication is formed by presence, patience, and deep connection. I found myself reflecting on how often I overlook the silent wisdom of the natural world. The book, which is made up of essays by various writers, sparked a deeper appreciation in me for the way plants communicate, adapt, and nurture both their surroundings and those who pay attention to them.
I was moved by the essay in the book on the banyan tree written by John Charles Ryan. Two weeks prior to reading the essay I had just returned from taking my two children on a spring break trip to the Florida Keys. While we were in the Keys we all appreciated the beautiful and strong banyan trees that lined the streets and served as gathering places for the community.
The banyan tree (Ficus benghalensis) is known for its aerial roots, which grow down from its branches and anchor into the ground, eventually becoming thick, trunk-like supports. This allows the tree to expand laterally and survive even if its central trunk is damaged or dies. In this way, it regenerates and supports itself, creating an entire ecosystem beneath its canopy. We can see the remarkable resilience of the banyan tree when we look at the Lahaina Banyan Tree, located in Maui. It has become a symbol of community spirit and successful healing. After devastating wildfires swept through Maui in August 2023 the tree suffered significant damage. In only about a month, with the help of arborists and community members, the Lahaina Banyan Tree began to have new leaf sprouts and in about four months the tree began producing fruit. Because of their vast canopies and strong structure, banyans offer shelter to many forms of life—birds, insects, and even people. In Hinduism and Buddhism, the banyan tree represents immortality, longevity, and strength. It's often seen as a sacred space because it is calm, grounded, and enduring through time.
Like the banyan tree, which grows stronger by rooting itself in multiple places and adapting to its surroundings, we can learn to find strength in connection, resilience in growth, and support in our communities.
My Current Teaching Schedule
Mondays, Evolution Yoga, 11-12, Gentle Yoga , in person and live streamed on Zoom
Thursdays, Cancer Wellness Center, 9:30-10:30, Vinyasa Yoga (Intermediate)
Thursdays, The Patten Building (for residents), 11-12, Gentle Yoga, in person only. If you are a new student email Katie to register, pay in person.
Fridays, Evolution Yoga, 11-12, Gentle Yoga, in person and live streamed on Zoom.
Looking Ahead
I will be part of a panel of wellness professionals for the Cancer Wellness Center event “Life After Cancer: Navigating Survivorship”. During this event I will speak on breath practices for stress management. For more information and to register, visit the Cancer Center website.
Breath Practice
I also wanted to remind you of the breath practice I am sharing all this year on Sound Cloud. There are 9 practices uploaded now. You can access the whole playlist HERE. I upload a new practice every two weeks. Please make sure to start with breath practice #1.
Thank you for reading my newsletter!
Love, Katie
Katie Hoffman
MA, E-RYT, C-IAYT
Divine Sleep®Yoga Nidra Instructor
609.271.4660