How to Create Your Own Backyard Zen Garden

  If you’ve ever spent time in a Zen garden, you’re probably aware of the immense peace they inspire. This isn’t surprising, as the key purpose of this type of garden is meditation and tranquility. Dry Zen gardens (aka Japanese rock gardens) are popular in hot, arid growing zones but can be created anywhere. Gardens including water add an additional element of centering, though they’re a bit more involved. You can cultivate your own bit of zen in any space you have available; you don’t need a massive spot. Let’s get started! Key Elements of a Zen Garden Unlike most other gardens, Zen garden spaces aren’t reliant on plants. In fact, some of the world’s most beautiful Zen gardens don’t have any plants at all! Instead, they contain certain elements that mirror the energies found in nature. You don’t need to use all the ones listed here, of course. Just choose the ones you feel can help you achieve stillness and inner peace. Some of the key elements you may wish to work into your design in