Why have the woods traditionally been portrayed as a dark and scary place?
Timeless fairytales of old often feature the deep, dark forest where who only knows what is lurking around the corner. Throughout history, fairytales, and folklore, the woods have often been depicted as an eerie and threatening place. This portrayal originates primarily from the mystery and unpredictability of dense forests, concealing hidden dangers and unknown creatures. In olden times, the forest was uncharted territory where danger could lurk around every bend in the trail.
The absence of sunlight in the thick canopy of trees contributes to the primordial sense of obscurity and foreboding. As a result, forests became symbolic settings for tales of mystery, risk, and the supernatural. Over time, while our understanding of forests has evolved and expanded, this traditional representation continues to influence popular culture and storytelling, shaping our perceptions of these natural realms.
Inherent and residual fear of the forest lingers not only from childhood storybook tales but also from our ancient ancestors. Passed down along family lines span innate fear of perilous places ventured. Of course, like any environment, there are always fundamental dangers and specific ways to prepare to spend time out in the wild. However, when our perception, skills, and experience expand, we understand there is nothing to fear.
The inspiration to write this came while on my walk today …wandering through an enchanted forest no less. But not one full of mythical beasts, robbers, or scary things trying to eat or kill you. (Seriously!) Walking in the enchanted forest is wholly immersing yourself in the cosmically orchestrated playground… the living habitat of divine order within chaos itself… inspired to be fully present to life happening around you.
Spending time in the forest is powerful medicine for our productivity-driven lives. Forest magic overwhelms our senses with realness and imbues us with an awareness of an alternate reality… A portal to real magic.
When I step into the forest on a walk, I have an ongoing thing I say to myself about being grateful to be back in the “real” world. (Followed by maniacal laughter, of course.)
Because the forest is a truly enchanted place.
This “dark and scary” forest embodies our most profound fears alongside the universal archetype of the vast unknown. It is a gift left to us to discover… For the divine unknown is ground zero for infinite possibility.
As we learn to embrace the mystery, the unknown becomes the miracle.
Namaste
