How to Create Your Own Zen Garden
For many people, their garden is a retreat from the outside world, where they can unwind after a hard day’s work. This concept can be expanded to create a dedicated space for silent contemplation. Zen gardens were originally developed by Japanese Buddhist monks as places for meditation. Aspects of Zen design can be integrated into any living environment.
WHAT IS A ZEN GARDEN?
A traditional Zen garden, known as a karesansui, is a minimalist arid landscape composed of natural elements such as rocks, gravel, sand, and wood, with very few plants and no water. Man-made components include bridges, statues, and stone lanterns with an enclosing wall or fence to separate the space from the outside world. With the emphasis on hardscaping there is little seasonal variation and the garden is attractive all year round.
