With more people living in apartments and spending time away from nature, those lucky enough to have a garden should capitalize on it.
Spending time in the garden can be great for your health in many ways, which is why a garden sanctuary can be an invaluable investment for your home and well-being. A garden sanctuary is more than just something in your garden- it can be critical to your mental and physical health as exposure to green spaces significantly reduces anxiety and depression, and the human instinct to connect with nature, known as biophilia, is instantly tapped into through our gardens.
So, what are the key elements of creating a garden sanctuary?
Designing to Your Needs
If you need a dedicated retreat for yoga, meditation, or quiet reflection, that’s great. If you want to set up a home gym or a gardening hub, that works too, but the key is to figure out what you really want. What is vital to your sense of wellness, because some people need to relax, but others need a punching bag!
These days, you can get a garden shed to help cultivate your ideal space, and it’s easy to put together as long as you have all the essential elements, like a solid shed base and the right tools.
With any outdoor structure, it’s also important to think about design. Use natural woods that absorb pollutants and maintain consistent humidity. Practical considerations, such as proper lighting and multi-purpose furniture, can also make a huge difference.
Creating a Sense of Seclusion
If you want a more secluded feel, you can use natural elements to create privacy, such as screens, pergolas, or tall plants. Another technique is layering plants, where you place the small ones at the front to taller ones at the back to create depth.
If possible, consider dividing your garden into distinct relaxation zones. This can be fantastic if you’re creating a space that covers multiple aspects of wellness. When different areas are clearly defined, it helps put you in the right frame of mind. For example, meditating in a gym environment may not be as effective if your workout space triggers a workout mindset!
Engaging the Senses
One of the most powerful ways to transform your garden sanctuary is to engage all of the senses and the easiest approach is to include scented plants like lavender and rosemary, but also consider colors that promote calmness. Sound can also play a role here too. Water features, such as fountains or small ponds, create the soothing sound of running water, which is known to cultivate relaxation.
Whatever you need, it is essential to focus on creating something that feels peaceful to you. You may have an abundance of ideas, but practicality is key here, particularly if you have a small space.
Your garden should be a personal haven that supports mental health, reduces stress, and strengthens our connection to nature is invaluable, which is why keeping these essentials in mind can help you build a truly restorative garden sanctuary.
