← Seven-day journey

Day 6 of 7 · 5–10 minutes

Get to know your tree.

Connect direct observation with curiosity about the tree itself. Let the Tree Library offer a practice or a question to explore.

Take this at your own pace. Repeat a day, shorten the practice, or finish whenever you need to.

Before you begin

Choose your way to practice.

Choose a tree in a permitted place with stable ground, clear of traffic and hazardous branches. Sit or stand comfortably, using your usual supports. You can observe from a bench, wheelchair, or accessible path. Leave the tree and its surroundings undisturbed.

One familiar tree

Return to the same tree when convenient. An ordinary tree near home is enough; you do not need a champion tree or a special trip.

Adapt the visit

Shorten the practice or observe from a comfortable window viewpoint if an outdoor visit is not suitable today.

Today’s practice

Read once, then give it a try.

  1. Begin with what you see

    Notice the crown, bark, and any visible leaves or needles from your comfortable viewpoint. You do not need to collect anything.

  2. Explore the Library

    Before or after your visit, browse a species you recognize or want to learn about. The profiles are starting points for observation, not complete identification keys. It is fine to leave your tree unnamed.

  3. Choose a practice

    If a Library profile fits your tree, try its outdoor practice. Otherwise, return to First Five Minutes and stay with direct observation.

  4. Notice your own response

    Consider what interested you. The Library’s themes are invitations to reflect; your experience may suggest a different meaning, or none at all.

Let this visit be enough.

Set the screen aside when you can. Keep your device available for access, navigation, or communication.

After your visit

What would you like to learn about this tree on another visit?

Reflect quietly or write a sentence in your own notebook. Nothing needs to be submitted.