Forests have always held a deep, mysterious allure, inspiring myths and legends across cultures. From the towering oak trees of ancient Greece to the dense, verdant canopies of Slavic lands, the guardians of these natural sanctuaries have taken many forms in human imagination. These beings—part protector, part embodiment of the wild—remind us of the delicate relationship between humanity and the forests that sustain us. In this continuation of our journey through myth and folklore, we delve into the enchanting tales of Dryads, Apsaras, Leshy, and the Yara-ma-yha-who, each reflecting the power and spirit of the forests they protect.
Dryads: The Greek Nymphs of Trees
In ancient Greek mythology, Dryads are tree nymphs, specifically associated with oak trees. These spirits are portrayed as beautiful, ethereal maidens who live within the trees they protect. Dryads are deeply connected to their respective trees, and their lives are intertwined with the health of these trees. If the tree dies, the Dryad associated with it also perishes.
Dryads are known for their gentle and nurturing nature, often aiding those who respect the forest while punishing those who harm it. They possess powers of healing and can communicate with other elements of the natural world. The presence of Dryads in Greek mythology highlights the intrinsic value of trees and forests as vital, living entities.
Apsaras: Celestial Nymphs of Water and Forests
Apsaras are celestial beings from Hindu and Buddhist mythology, known for their stunning beauty and graceful dancing. They are often associated with water bodies and forests, where they dwell. Apsaras serve as both entertainers of the gods and protectors of natural beauty.
These nymphs have the ability to shape-shift and often use their enchanting music and dance to influence and protect the environment. In many tales, Apsaras assist heroes and gods, offering guidance and blessings. Their presence symbolizes the divine connection between nature and the heavens, reinforcing the sacredness of the natural world.
Leshy: The Slavic Forest Spirit
In Slavic mythology, the Leshy is a formidable forest spirit who serves as the guardian of the woods. This being is often depicted as a tall, humanoid figure covered in leaves and moss, with glowing green eyes and a beard made of living plants. The Leshy can change its size, becoming as tall as the trees or as small as a blade of grass, and is known to play tricks on humans, leading them astray in the forest.
The Leshy is fiercely protective of the animals and plants within its domain. It can control the forest's elements, commanding trees, animals, and even the weather to protect its territory. Though the Leshy can be benevolent, aiding those who show respect to the forest, it can also be a fierce adversary to those who cause harm. The tales of the Leshy underscore the importance of respecting nature and recognizing the power and mystery of the forest.
Yara-ma-yha-who: The Australian Tree-Dweller
From Aboriginal Australian folklore comes the Yara-ma-yha-who, a small, red-skinned creature with an affinity for the trees of the Australian bush. This mythical being is described as having a large head, an enormous mouth, and no teeth, with suction-cup-like fingers that allow it to cling to tree branches.
The Yara-ma-yha-who is said to lurk in fig trees, waiting to ambush unsuspecting travelers. Instead of hunting or foraging, it relies on surprise and cunning, dropping onto its prey from above. According to legend, it does not kill its victims outright but drains their energy, allowing them to recover before repeating the process, eventually transforming them into another Yara-ma-yha-who.
This creature symbolizes the mysterious and sometimes dangerous aspects of the natural world, reminding people to tread carefully and respect the wilderness. The Yara-ma-yha-who's tales emphasize the balance between fear and reverence in the relationship between humans and the environment.
These myths not only weave fascinating stories but also offer profound lessons about the value of the natural world. Whether through the nurturing hands of the Dryad or the watchful eyes of the Leshy, each of these forest spirits serves as a reminder of the vital need to preserve and respect our forests. As we continue to navigate our relationship with nature, perhaps we can draw inspiration from these ancient tales—honoring the balance and mystery of the wilderness, just as our ancestors once did.
AROUND THE WORLD 🌏
by Kenny
TAINTED BENEFITS
The Surinamese government recently launched the world’s first sovereign carbon credits under the UNFCCC Paris Agreement framework. This agreement allows Suriname to internationally trade carbon credits. Whilst this sounds very progressive and seems to offer some level of optimism, there have been complaints from the local and indigenous communities. The communities claim they were excluded from consultations.
This carbon credit scheme is geared towards forest preservation, offsetting global emissions, and the potential for significant revenue. However, the allocation plans have raised issues and the benefits of this scheme now seem tainted. Community leaders are frustrated and asking for the program to be paused until certain concerns can be addressed.
TWO SIDES OF THE COIN
There are two sides to the environmental crisis coin. Susana Muhamad, who is Columbia’s environment minister and will be president of the UN biodiversity Cop16, warns against focusing on one side of the coin and urges us to understand that it takes more than focusing on carbon emission reduction to preserve humanity.
Muhamad highlights that while climate change receives significant political attention, biodiversity issues are often overlooked. But, there needs to be a dual focus that also includes the protection of natural ecosystems. The restoration of nature is crucial to stabilizing the climate. A balanced approach is key.
Muhamad urges governments to fulfill their commitments to fund nature restoration and to increase investment in the global biodiversity fund approved in Montreal in 2022.
THREAT TO DOWN UNDER
A study of ancient coral samples from the Great Barrier Reef has revealed the severe impact of climate change on this ecosystem. Researchers in Australia found that temperatures around the reef in the past decade are the highest in 400 years. This has also led to five mass bleaching events in just nine years. The study warns that rising temperatures, driven by climate change, now represent an "existential threat" to the reef.
Dr. Benjamin Henley, the lead researcher, described recent developments in the Great Barrier Reef as alarming but noted that there is still hope if we collaborate to curtail global warming.
WHAT WE'RE READING
Meet the Miombo, the largest forest you’ve never heard of Read here
Poems can inspire us to appreciate nature and spark positive action Read here
For decades, we’ve been told 80% of the world’s biodiversity is found on Indigenous lands – but it’s wrong Read here
The vanishing mangroves of El Salvador Read here
A one-time illegal logger grows back a forest for his people in Sumatra Read here
‘Flight shame is dead’: concern grows over climate impact of tourism boom Read here
There you have it, dear friends!
Till next time!
Joanna Arai
💛
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