A zen backyard aims to provide an area of calmness and peace for its homeowners. Contrary to what numerous people think, turning your backyard into a zen space doesn’t take much effort or money. It is all about creativity and resourcefulness.
An essential step in successfully creating your zen garden is to become familiar with the ancient principles that underpin the design of Japanese gardens. When trying to achieve a zen garden, it is essential to combine history and culture. This may entail venturing outside of your comfort bubble and looking at your area from a different point of view to obtain the best outcome.
Here are things that you can do to achieve the zen feel in your backyard:
- Rocks, Pebbles, and Gravel
Using pebbles to create a pathway in your backyard immediately gives it a zen atmosphere. Having rock arrangements in some parts of the space ties the whole area together. Stones are one of the most important elements of a zen garden as they bring harmony, balance, and energy to the landscape.
While the gravel in a garden area may appear to be nothing more than an eye-catching and unusual feature, it has a significance that goes beyond its aesthetic appeal.
- Fountain
The use of fountains in your backyard doesn’t only make the space look beautiful, but the sound of running water exudes relaxing energy. You need not use expensive fountains to achieve the zen look.
An outdoor fountain is one of the most stunning features you can include in your garden area. Outdoor water features elevate the atmosphere of garden spaces, making them feel more classy and unique.
The sound of running water is incredibly soothing, whether your fountain takes center stage in your garden or is simply a component of your design aesthetic. In a way, it brings your mind away from the stress of daily life and allows it to renew. As a result, water is frequently used in white noises or during yoga and meditation. Restful and contemplative, the sensation of rippling water can help you relax and think more clearly.
- Warm lighting
Lighting is critical when creating an ambiance in any setting but essential in a zen garden. For the area surrounding your seating area and walkways, these, or renewable versions, are suitable. An attractive element to include is to stick your light from posts or bushes.
Choose path and area lights with warm lighting. The warm lights give your backyard and cozy and intimate feeling. You can also opt to use hanging lights with the same warm tones.
- Candles
Candles are also a great way to induce a relaxing feeling because of the flames’ flickering lights and warm tones. They also add warmth to the place both through sight and feel.
- Hammock
A hammock is an excellent addition to any zen backyard. Using a natural colored hammock will look great as a decorative piece and can be used to unwind in the backyard. It is a practical decoration.
- Wood accents
To achieve a zen look, make use of wood planks. Whether as a wall accent or flooring for the backyard seating, the face of wood in a backyard will create a natural and zen atmosphere.
- Groomed plants
It is essential that the plants in your backyard are well taken care of. This includes constant trimming. Having well-trimmed plants makes the place look clean and organized. Make sure you have the necessary garden supplies to have well-groomed plants.
- Earthy vases
Earthy vases such as clay or natural materials are much more preferable to colorful plastic ones. A zen backyard is all about earthy and natural tones. Use vases in this category to achieve the look.
- Music
Playing natural sounds through an audio system brings the space to a whole new level. This gives a feeling of being at a spa and will bring tranquility without adding more things to the area.
- Maintenance
The last thing needed for a zen backyard is maintenance. Ensure that you can maintain how your backyard looks. Keep in mind your limits and capabilities. Don’t use pieces that are high maintenance to avoid future problems.
You do not need to have all the ten things on the list. You can opt to add just a few to your zen garden or come up with your own ideas. The arrangement is based on your preference and limits; you have complete control over your garden revamp. Just remember to include the three key features of a Japanese garden: stones, water, and plants. If these elements are present, you can craft a meditation sanctuary in your own garden.