
Koyamaki Tree (Umbrella Pine)
Throughout my spiritual journey I’ve taken a lot of comfort in nature. I will hike through the woods, sit by the ocean, lay under the stars and meditate and listen to Mantras. I often find trees to sit and meditate with as well. Trees are a great support during meditation, self reflection and prayer practices because they naturally embody qualities like stillness, rootedness, and presence. They are deeply rooted in the earth, symbolizing stability and groundedness. They are Living Prana (Vital Energy) and support one’s connection to nature, support letting go, growth and transformation. They create a calming environment for spiritual practice. The sounds, scents, and sights around trees create a natural environment that’s calming and safe. The rustling leaves, earthy smells, and filtered light through branches can help engage the senses gently, making it easier to enter a meditative state.
I’ve had a number of tree “friends” and I always feel supported when I sit by them. In my town, we have many beautiful parks with trees from all over the world, and I would often find myself drawn to the tree in the picture above. I would sit under this tree and do my meditations, feeling supported and loved. I researched the tree and found it was a very unique tree from Japan, called a Japanese Umbrella Pine or…Koyamaki.
The Koyamaki tree is a rare and ancient species native to Japan. Its unique structure, with needle-like leaves arranged in umbrella-like whorls, gives the tree a protective and graceful appearance. The Koyamaki holds deep symbolic meaning in Japanese culture and spirituality. Associated with longevity and resilience, it is admired for its ability to thrive in harsh conditions, making it a symbol of protection, strength and endurance.
In some traditions, trees like the Koyamaki are considered sacred, believed to house spirits known as kami, linking the earthly world with the divine. The Koyamaki, being an evergreen, also represents eternity and the continuity of life. Its towering height and solid presence make it a reminder of steadfastness and stability in the face of life’s challenges. In Buddhist symbolism, the Koyamaki is associated with enlightenment, serving as a reminder of the unwavering journey toward spiritual awakening. As a tree that has survived for millions of years, the Koyamaki embodies the harmony between nature, time, and spirituality.
When I read about the Koyamaki, and learned of it’s symbolism and status, I was not surprised. I have felt the protection and support of this tree during my meditation practice, and understood first hand that it would play a meaningful part in my spiritual journey. When seeking the guidance of the Divine and my spirit guides, the Koyamaki continued to show up. I knew that it was an important symbol of not only the personal work I was doing, but of the work I was looking to share with others. I wanted my coaching practice and spiritual work to embody the same supportive elements that this tree had provided for me on so many occasions. With that, Koyamaki was born, and I welcome you to the site. I am glad you were drawn here.
I enjoy incorporating and engaging both the practical mind and the intuitive spiritual messages when on my own spiritual journey and healing path. I believe that since you are reading this, we likely share the same beliefs around this work. Please review the site and see if anything resonates with you, I am always available for free consultations if you should have questions about the work I offer.
Please reach out and let’s connect and see if I can help guide you on your journey. Namaste
