» Grow A Meditation Garden

A quiet place is truly a gift in this very hectic, and often noisy world. Think for a moment about the last time it was really silent. of a moment when you felt completely at peace. If you can’t remember one, then making yourself a meditation space might be the perfect answer.

Nearly all meditation gardens I’ve seen are circular. The circle is a great symbol for this project, reflecting wholeness akin to a Mandala within which one may re-shape their thoughts and integrate ideas. Having said that, if all you have to work with is a balcony, then don’t let the shape stop you – just get creative in how you arrange pots and planters.

For the meditation garden to truly fulfill its role, make a list of the plants and images that make you feel restful. From this list you’ll be able to start fleshing out a design that’s both pleasing to the eye, and personally meaningful. We went with a circular space with a small waterfall, various naturalized plants, a statue of Kwan Yin (the Goddess of Mercy), a backdrop of roses and grapes, and torches and a fire pot so that the space can be enjoyed at night too. An additional boon here is that the electrical outlet for the waterfall can be used for other soothing music. Better still, we can watch the birds, bunnies, squirrels and even mallards come play in this space when humans are indoors!

Bear in mind that your meditation garden may become the proverbial work in progress. One year you might add some annuals for color. Another year you might be inspired by some ivy that you can shape into a topiary design with some aromatic herbs nearby that carry rejuvenation on the wind. And another still, you might find yourself putting in stone messages of encouragement at various locations to make everyone smile.

The garden I’ve described here is rather informal. I spend all day in a rather structured environment, and enjoy the sense of freedom that simplicity offers. For something a little more formal you might want to look at some Japanese designs. These too have water features, statues, sometimes small structures (like a mini-pagoda or bridge over the water), and seating options. But there is definitely more of a “plan” to the Japanese approach that appeals to some home gardening aficionados.

No matter your choice two pieces of advice. First, don’t make this a chore. Your meditation garden should be a playful whimsy where you can simply BE. Don’t rush the design. Let your creativity come out naturally. Second, I do not recommend making meditation gardens too cluttered. From the perspective of Feng Shui (the art of placement) clutter closes off the flow of natural energy. Visually clutter can be very stressful and remind you of work. Additionally too many plants may block free-flowing air, which is not only healthy but also very relaxing.

Peace!