Ashleigh Smith
What Are Zen Gardens?
Zen Gardens originated as aids for Buddhist monks during meditation to help the mind find rest and take in the teachings of Buddha. They were incorporated into the Japanese temple gardens before becoming a more common part of Japanese life culture. The whole idea is to maintain a minimalistic representation of the natural elements of the Earth to evoke meaning and inner reflection.
As we live our lives our minds are cluttered with tasks and to do lists that are focused on trivial pursuits. This lifestyle creates dissonance between us and nature. By interacting with simple, natural elements we are able to ground our minds and create a moment of tranquility and rest. It is about creating harmony between ourselves and nature.
How To Make A Zen Garden?
Because zen gardens are really meant to aid individuals there is not a specific format for creating a zen garden. The basic components include sand, rocks/stone, and sometimes water or a few plants.
These components can be combined and organized in any way that you feel so drawn to place them. Because there aren’t traditionally any plants incorporated into these gardens you can turn those hard to plant areas into a zen oasis.
To create within your landscape it is common to create a box or contained area where the zen garden is made that is then surrounded by plants. This creates a sense of being in nature while also focusing on the basic components it is made of.
To bring these gardens indoors you can create a mini version that is perfect for any desktop. Spending even a few minutes a day raking patterns into the sand can help the mind rest and rejuvenate.
To Make A Mini Zen Garden:
- Pick a small container, we recommend using these small wood planter boxes
- Add a fine sand - traditionally white sand is used but colored sand could be used too
- Add a few smoothed rocks
- Add any other small statues, plants, etc. if you would like
- Place near your workspace
- Use a small rake to smooth the sand and create calming patterns in the sand
About the Author
I'm Ashleigh Smith, a native to Northern Utah. I first gained a love of gardening with my grandmother as I helped her each summer. I decided to make a career of it and have recently graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Horticulture from Brigham Young University - Idaho. My studies have focused on plant production while I also have experience in Nursery & Garden Center Operations.
Become a True Leaf Market Brand Ambassador! You’ll enjoy awesome perks, free products and exclusive swag & offers! Help us create a gardening revolution and help others experience the joy of growing!
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
0 Comments
No Comments yet! Be the first to start a conversation
Further Reading
10 Natives of the Southwest USA for Pest Control
Written By Lara Wadsworth The Southwestern United States is a region incredibly unique to the rest of the country. The hot, dry weather can be challenging for plants and animals to thrive without additional help. That is why gardening with natives can ...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-04-157 min read0Spring Into Action - Celebrating Earth Day
Written By Chelsea Hafer Spring is quickly arriving, and that means that Earth Day is near! Earth Day is the perfect occasion to appreciate our wonderful planet and all that it does for us and think of ways you can give back to it. In this blog post, w...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-04-154 min read0Everything You Need To Know About Rain Gardens
Written By Lara Wadsworth Rain gardens are quickly gaining popularity for their perfect marriage of utility and beauty. What simply looks like a beautifully landscaped garden is actually a native habitat that serves as a storm drain and water sponge. B...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-04-085 min read1Northeastern Natives for Attracting Beneficial Insects
Written By Lara Wadsworth The Northeastern United States is rich with American history, but did you also know that it is rich in plant biodiversity? Nature has learned through time how to work in harmony with the various species that attempt to thrive....
Ashleigh Smith
2024-04-086 min read1