How to Create a Spiritual Garden in Six Steps


by Peg Streep

Remember that spiritual gardening does not involve huge investments of
time or money, nor does it require a great deal of space. The object
is to create an oasis where your spirit can flourish -- not to add
another item to your to-do list. Plan your garden with maintenance in
mind, and be realistic about how much time and effort you are willing
and able to commit to your garden.

Here are a few ideas that can turn any garden into sacred space: Add a
focal point to the garden to be used for meditation. Any object that
has personal resonance can be become the garden's spiritual center.
Among the many possibilities are a statue, a gazing ball, a melodious
wind chime or a Japanese-style stone lantern.

Create a water feature to bring energy and sound into your sanctuary.
Again, think simple, not grandiose: A small fountain or a water garden
with a few aquatic plants will make your garden a place of relaxation
and respite.

Plant a butterfly garden in a sunny and sheltered area. Butterflies
are ancient symbols of soul, as well as emblems of transformation.
Among the plants you may want to consider are cosmos and lilacs both
have flowers that attract the showy monarch. Try asters or coreopsis
to attract the buckeye, and plant marigolds and mint as a treat for
the cabbage butterfly.

Create a meditation path. Once again, this can be done on any scale.
Try a simple meandering path of strewn pine needles, a winding gravel
path or a stepping stone walkway.

Add a bench to your garden for moments of quiet contemplation. Study
your garden before you decide its placement; let all of your senses
inform your choice.

Plant for tranquility. Choose easy-to-maintain plants with
deliberately muted colors such as greens, soft pastels and creams.
Keep in mind that reds, yellows and oranges stimulate the senses. Go
with soft colors to create an oasis of calm in a busy world