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Zen gardens, which originated with Buddhist monks centuries ago, have only recently become fashionable. Combining a balance of natural and architectural elements and a blend of simple and humble design juxtaposed with natural wonders, these gardens offer tranquility and beauty in abundance. As for that balance, Zen gardeners adhere to the principle of yin (feminine) and yang (masculine). Each facet of a zen garden is characterized by one or the other, that is, water is yin; the earth is yang The epitome of a zen garden is achieved when yin and yang are balanced for harmonious feng shui; this adheres to a second principle of working with the trends of nature as much as your landscape allows.

Designed to produce a three-dimensional effect of height and depth, a zen garden is planned with an attention-grabbing foreground and background. More harmony is achieved by balancing different colors, sizes and shapes of flora, so that no one plant overwhelms. Larger trees and shrubs placed at the rear of your garden offer privacy and a natural backdrop. More feng shui tips for your zen garden?

Plant for your climate: mosses, ground covers, ornamental grasses, hardy flowers, focal point shrubs and trees, in varied heights, colors and textures, add lush vibrancy to your garden. Drought-resistant plants thrive in sandy areas of a zen garden and are perfect for low-rainfall areas. Low-maintenance mosses and ground covers serve to soften straight lines, like existing sidewalks, and promote the flow of chi. Choose plants that will thrive in your region.

Nature’s Rocks: Rocks add dimension to a zen garden. They reflect permanence and respect for the passage of time, while bringing energy and emotion to your landscape. Select unique rocks and stones, arranging them according to their characteristics and special sizes; place them where best suits the flow of your garden. Choose smooth and worn stones for added appeal.

Water Features: All elements have a purpose in a zen garden. Water features such as pools, ponds, and fountains offer yin energy and encourage beneficial chi. Garden lighting to highlight special areas balances that with yang (masculine) energy. You get the idea. Water features can include natural facets already in your landscape, i.e. a pre-existing stream or pond, or they can be added, either naturally or man-made. Sand and pebble formations can also be used to represent water: stir up the sand with a rake or your fingertips to create a rippling water effect; the swirls also promote the flow of chi in your garden. While the sand areas are beautiful, I prefer to use them in conjunction with the actual water features for a more dramatic appeal.

Pathways and walkways: Pathways should never be straight, as chi energy is supposed to flow smoothly. A zen garden yearns for meanders and curves to soften straight lines and edges, because a curved path encourages chi to move more slowly and freely. If you already have straight paths, plant mosses to smooth them out; allow plants to grow over the edges to help chi circulate freely.

Bridges – Most of us have seen the stock photo print or jigsaw puzzle of the zen garden with the little red bridge spanning a lily pond, or were they lotus flowers? Regardless, bridges add beauty and evoke emotion to any type of garden and are one of the most frequently added architectural elements to a zen garden. Use them to encompass a water feature, to connect different areas of the garden, and to offer access and views of your garden that would otherwise be unreachable.

Focal points and decorative trim – these are other architectural features to enhance the atmosphere of your garden and create a sense of space. A hanging lantern, Buddha statue or mahogany woodwork add to the feeling of a zen garden. A unique, well-placed boulder partially embedded in the earth and some solar garden lights to complement its special features will add beauty in a holistic way.

Doors and pergolas: one of the best features of a zen garden? You can create one anywhere, even in the smallest space. Through the well-planned placement of features, the illusion of more area and depth is possible. A gate located at the entrance to your garden will enhance the illusion of additional space. Gazebos draw attention from near or far and are wonderful ways to give the essence of privacy while adding to the beauty of your garden. Vines work well here to promote a sense of tranquility.

Whether it’s a special, eye-catching niche in your garden or an all-encompassing theme, a Zen garden offers a beautiful place to relax and reflect. Above all, your zen garden should offer an outdoor space to share with family and friends.