The Willow Tree

The Celtic meaning of the willow has a long history of symbolism associated with metaphysical and ritual practices. Traditionally, the willow was and is used in ceremonies intended for enhancement of psychic abilities. Many uses and associations can be traced back to our Celtic ancestors' observations of the willow tree in their natural environment. Druid priests, dryads, bards and ovates all recognized the willow's affinity to watery domains.

The willow also carries a deep association with the moon; another powerful symbol of intuitive energy. This is easily seen when we recognize the moon's influence over the waters of the earth; it moves the tides, pulling fluids to and fro with her own wax and wane.

Upon recognizing these natural unions, ancient Celtic spiritual leaders considered the willow a container for water/moon attributes and thus utilized its wood and branches to invoke deeper connections to their intuitive purposes. The Celts understood that the willow was instrumental in bringing about psychic visions that produced a clearer understanding of the world in which they lived.

Another valuable traits of the willow is its flexibility. The willow is one of the few trees that can bend in outrageous poses without snapping. This is a powerful metaphor for those of us on a spiritual path. The message here is to adjust with life rather than fight it. Further testimony to its adaptability is the willow's ability to not only survive, but thrive in some of the most challenging conditions. The willow is a prolific grower, often taking root from a single branch that has fallen into some marshy bog.

Nature Connection:

• The willow reminds us to take heed of its lesson: Keep growing in stature and continue to reach higher, no matter where you are planted.