To the Maya, the Ceiba Tree - Yaxche - is the first tree of existence, the axis mundi uniting the underworld, the earth and the sky. Through it, all realms remain bound in breath and balance.
From the luminous waters of creation, a crocodile rises, its arms outstretched as the sacred tree begins to grow. Crowned with a canopy of leafage, its branches extend in all four directions. During its ascent, the Ceiba Tree gave birth to life on earth and set the stars and heavenly bodies in motion.
The Maya believe in a sacred connection between humankind and the Ceiba Tree. Like a mother, the bearer of children, life itself can only perpetuate as long as the Ceiba Tree is alive.