If you’re reading this, your outdoor space is probably stressing you out. Is it the noise level? Does it lean on the messy side?

Just as a clean and tidy home brings peace and calm, your outdoor space can go from around-the-bend to zen with our tips.

Think like a Monk

Traditional zen gardens are designed for meditation. Containing natural elements, such as stone, water, and plants, they inspire a calm state. Zen gardens tend to have a minimalist style with a small tree or shrub, making them low maintenance.

You can implement gravel to signify the water element. Pea gravel is a great choice as it is small and smooth. Unlike sand, it won’t thrash around by wind and rain. Using a rake, create ripple-like patterns in the gravel and welcome the relaxation of these gentle motions.

Go Green

Studies show that green spaces are beneficial to mental health. It’s the perfect excuse to plant more trees.

If you happen to live in a noisy area, trees and shrubs can trap noise and pollution. Not only will you enjoy a quieter space, but your lungs will also appreciate the cleaner air.

Here are our picks:

Golden Goddess Bamboo

Keep it Simple

Too many colors and shapes in your outdoor space can overwhelm your senses. Stick to a small color palette and simple shapes.

Cocoon Yourself

Many people feel a sense of protection and privacy when they’re in an enclosed space. Screens and shrubs can help bring this sense of enclosure.

Just Add Water

The sound of running water is soothing and adds a magical element to gardens.

If you don’t mind a bit of wildness in your garden, add a water feature, such as a fountain or a pond. The water feature is bound to draw in wildlife, and you’ll have a prime view of witnessing nature in action.

Maybe a water feature isn’t your thing. You can always create the sound of water with ornamental grasses. They make a soothing rustling sound in the breeze, similar to water in a stream.

Invite the Wild

Planting pollinator-friendly flowers is another great way to attract wildlife, such as bees and butterflies.

You can also hang up a bird feeder, and hear songs of appreciation from the birds.

Have a seat

Add seating areas in various areas throughout your garden. The idea is to admire your garden’s different angles, which will provide a fresh perspective and more enjoyment.

A beautiful bench will invite you to linger outdoors. Better yet, implement a hanging chair or hammock. All that comfiness just might lull you to sleep outside!

Chime in

If the sound of chimes soothes you (and doesn’t bother your neighbors), hang a few windchimes.

Get Sentimental

There may be a plant that reminds you of your loved ones. Incorporate it and honor them with your reflections and thoughts.

Delight your senses

Include plants with fragrances and soft textures that entice you to take in a deep inhale or reach out and touch. The scent of lavender calms the nerves, and Lamb’s Ear is buttery soft to the touch.

Our favorites are: