Sycamore maple
The keeper of open expanse
Nature of the tree
In the Alps the sycamore maple climbs higher than most broadleaf trees. It stands alone on pastures and alpine meadows, with a broad, domed crown. Its leaves are large and lobed like an open hand. In autumn they glow yellow. Its seeds carry wings and spin in the wind, far out across the land. Beneath old maples, cattle and people have always sought shade and shelter.
Inner attitude
The sycamore maple stands free and open. It withstands wind and weather without closing itself off. It gives what it has and lets go of what wants to fly.
The essential qualities
- open
- sheltering
- free
- resilient
- generous
It gives shade without asking for anything.
Meaning
The sycamore maple calls when you feel cramped and held tight. It teaches you to open your hands, to give space and to let new things go their way – trusting that they will find ground.
Voice of the tree
«Open your hands. What wants to fly will find its place.»
Encounter & working together
You meet it on the alpine pastures, where it stands alone in the light. In autumn, let one of its winged seeds fall and watch it spin.
Pay attention to
- where you hold on to what wants to go
- where you can give others shelter
- where spaciousness wants to arise within you
The sycamore maple works when you are ready to let go.
Essence
I stand open in the wind and let go of what wants to fly.
