Why is it called The Tree, and what does the logo mean?

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Hello, my name is Edward, and I am the founder of The Tree. I hope this background offers insight into the significance behind our name and logo.

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Putting Down Roots

At the heart of our garden stands a large Ash tree, and trees have always held powerful meaning for me. When choosing a name, I considered various species and those with spiritual symbolism, but ultimately, I wanted something simple and universal—a symbol that everyone could connect with, regardless of personal beliefs. “The Tree” felt right: a name that spoke to our inclusive spirit at the retreat.

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The Lungs of the Earth

Trees embody qualities we nurture here at the retreat. They are resilient yet flexible, deeply rooted yet expansive, just as we aspire to be. Often called “the lungs of the earth,” trees generate oxygen, provide shade, and shelter life. Their presence is calming, centering, like the sensation of sitting beneath one or walking through the forest. In yoga, Vrksasana, or Tree Pose, fosters balance, focus, and awareness, reminding us of these same qualities within ourselves.

 

An Ancient Symbol

The Tree is a universal symbol across many cultures and traditions. Trees connect the material and the spiritual, the earth and the heavens. They stand for nourishment, growth, transformation, and unity. Many sacred traditions—Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, Shamanism, Islam, and Judaism—venerate trees, each finding a unique resonance within them.

 

The Path of Enlightenment

The Tree is also linked to the journey of Enlightenment, which I see not as a final destination, but as a continuous path of learning, growth, integration, and celebration that unfolds throughout life. Like a tree going through seasons, our journey is ongoing, each year deepening our roots and reaching higher into self-awareness.

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The Significance of the Logo

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The Sun: The sun, as the giver of life, provides light, warmth, and energy to the earth. It also symbolizes our true, non-dual nature, always shining within, even when obscured by clouds of thought. Like the sun, our deeper nature illuminates our path of inner awakening.

 

The Seated Figure: The person seated under the tree represents humanity. Whether meditating, reflecting, or simply enjoying the cool shade, they are connected to the tree’s wisdom and stillness.

 

The Outer Zen Circle (Ensō): Surrounding the logo is an ensō, a sacred Zen symbol representing wholeness, strength, and unity with the universe. In Japanese calligraphy, ensō is a common motif, translating as “circle of togetherness.”

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The Tree Itself: Beyond the symbolism above, those familiar with Kriya Yoga may notice further layers. The seven branches represent the first seven limbs of yoga, universal principles for conscious living. The eighth limb, Samadhi, or inner peace, is symbolized by the sun. Additionally, the shape of the tree and trunk suggests the spine and brain, symbolizing the path of inner awakening.