Creating your own Relaxation Garden
In recent years, many of us have found new levels of appreciation for our gardens. An outside space in which we can more comfortably see friends and family. Somewhere that we can play with our children or simply take some time out for ourselves. However, creating a specific relaxation garden is uniquely special. A garden which can be your sanctuary; a space to get away from it all, reset and relax.
In this post, I will give you my top tips to create your own relaxation garden. After all, the health benefits – mental and physical – of being outdoors are well known so read on to learn how to turn your outdoor room into a beautiful calming garden.
However, creating a specific relaxation garden is uniquely special. A garden which can be your sanctuary; a space to get away from it all, reset and relax.
Work with Curves
To us, curved organic shapes and blurred edges are synonymous with a relaxation garden. We like to embrace curves with gentle winding paths and circular seating areas. The image shows one of our Suffolk Relaxation Gardens.
Even when it comes to the seating, choose curvaceous ergonomic furniture for the relaxation garden. Ensure that it invites you in and makes you want to sit and take that much need quiet time.
Be Calm with Colour but Rich on Texture
Natural colours work wonderfully for the hard landscaping elements. In the image to the right, the logs add beautiful textural detailing. This is a great contrast with the slate stack fireplace. Both elements are then balanced by the flooring. Warm timber decking and dark grey porcelain create balance and harmony.
The Planting is minimal in colour also; primarily there is a strong use of green. Softer mauves complement the cool grey paving.
Stimulate all the Senses…
It is now known that touching plants can reduce anxiety. I personally love running my fingers through long grasses as I pass by.
Scent is important too; I often include cottage garden favourites such as Phlox, Wisteria and Peonies. In the relaxation garden, I tend to prefer to opt for plants with softer aromas too. Think of herbs such as Lavender, Aloysia citrodora (lemon verbena), Salvia, Rosemary and Thyme.
Sound is another way to stimulate the senses. Imagine the soft rustle of Bamboo (always potted!) as it sways in the wind or the delicate and cooling sound of water gently flowing in your relaxation garden. Bird song can of course be mother natures contribution to your new found oasis; be sure to include small bird boxes, feeders, hedge rows and anything else that will encourage our native birds into your garden.
Comfort is King in the Relaxation Garden
Include plenty of places to sit and lay in your relaxation garden. If space, allow for two or three seating areas around the garden. Ensure the furniture is comfortable and not in a wind tunnel.
Over sized cushions in soft pastel shades with a throw ensure that you can stay cosy from day to night.
hammock or hanging chair also offer lovely ways to be still and enjoy the garden. If room, include a day bed too!.
We hope we have inspired you to think about how you can make your own garden a more relaxing space. If you’re looking for assistance then we create Relaxation Gardens in Woodbridge, Dedham, East Bergholt, Hadleigh, Long Melford, Lavenham, Bildeston, Waldringfield, Long Melford, Capel St. Mary, Nayland, Boxted and many others around Suffolk.
