Self-care is a growing trend in the US, with Americans realizing the importance of investing in their well-being. According to Statista, spending time with friends and family emerged as the most popular form of self-care in 2024. Nearly 58% of respondents admitted to doing this, while 11% said that they indulged in yoga.
Your home can be the best place to practice self-care, provided you invest in the right environment. Creating a Zen zone in your outdoor space is a great idea. It can transform your home’s exterior into a tranquil retreat where you can relax and reconnect with nature.
Fortunately, creating a perfect relaxation space in your backyard isn’t about burning a hole in your wallet. Here are a few practical ways to design your outdoor Zen space with minimal effort and investment.
Choose the Right Location
Today’s Homeowner notes that Americans love buying homes with spacious outdoor areas. A recent survey revealed that the national average yard size in the US is 23,301 square feet or half an acre. Alaska and Maine homes have the biggest yards, while those in Hawaii and New York have the smallest ones.
Whatever the size of your outdoor space, selecting an appropriate location for your Zen zone is crucial. Ideally, it should be a quiet, shaded area that feels secluded and peaceful. You may opt for a corner of your garden, a patio, or even a balcony, depending on what you have.
The idea is to find a spot that minimizes distractions to enable you to immerse yourself in nature. If space is limited, you can create a smaller Zen garden that fits comfortably in your chosen area.
Incorporate Natural Elements
A study by Bangor University highlights the role of greenery in calmness and relaxation. Participants who focused on green elements experienced a reduction in anxiety and better mood compared to those who focused on grey elements. That’s exactly what natural elements can do for you.
Integrating natural elements into your outdoor design enhances the calming effect of your Zen zone. Pick elements like rocks, wood, and sand as the base to create a harmonious environment. Add plants such as ferns, bamboo, succulents, and bonsai trees to bring life to the space.
A water feature is an excellent decor element for your outdoor space as it provides soothing sounds and attracts wildlife. You can opt for a small pond or fountain depending on the available area.
Create Comfortable Seating Areas
Comfort should be non-negotiable for designing an outdoor space that promotes relaxation. Whether you want to meditate or have a good time with friends or family, you need a place to sit and relax.
Think beyond lounge chairs, and invest in seating options such as hammocks or hanging chairs. Add comfy cushions to enhance the aesthetics and coziness of the area.
A comfortable seating area invites you to sit back and enjoy the serenity of your surroundings. Besides the comfort factor, ensure that the seating is positioned to take advantage of any natural views or features. You will absolutely love feasting your eyes or breathing in the fresh air in your garden.
Add a Sauna
Did you know that outdoor saunas are trending in American homes? The reason goes beyond aesthetics and luxury. According to Medical News Today, saunas offer immense health benefits. Sweating in a sauna can ease pain, promote relaxation, and even improve your cardiovascular health.
A sauna in your Zen space is like having a haven for self-care right in your backyard. You can enjoy it around the year, without worrying about booking slots and paying for using it.
Even better, host a party for your friends to provide a refreshing escape from the usual. ThermaSol recommends investing in a sauna with LED mood lighting for an extra dose of relaxation.
Explore the option of canopy saunas as they are ideal for outdoor spaces. This model has a large glass door and a half-moon window to enjoy the exterior view. The exterior benches offer a place to sit and cool off.
Invest in Mindful Design Elements
A Zen space includes mindful design elements that engage all five senses. Small elements like wind chimes for gentle sounds, soft lighting for ambiance, and fragrant plants like lavender for scent can make a difference. Adding fairy lights to your garden can make it look beautiful in the evening.
Remember to choose calming colors for any decor or furnishings as they appear pleasant to the eye. Keep pathways clear to encourage movement through space. The goal is to create an ambiance that promotes mindfulness through simplicity and intentionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the space requirement for an exterior Zen zone?
If you think that you need a sprawling backyard to create a Zen zone outdoors, you are mistaken. Even a small corner can suffice, provided you pick thoughtful design elements that promote comfort and relaxation. Consider what you have and avoid cramping the available space with too many elements.
Can a Zen garden be created on a budget?
Yes, creating a Zen garden is absolutely possible if you are tight on the budget. Adopting a minimalist mindset is a good start. Also, opt for DIY elements like gravel paths, inexpensive plants, and natural materials like stones or wood. These will help you create a serene environment without a big expense.
What plants are ideal for a Zen garden?
Greenery is a key element of a relaxing outdoor space, but you must choose your plants wisely. Ideal plants for exteriors include bamboo, Japanese maples, ferns, mosses, and succulents. Besides looking beautiful and promoting tranquility, these plants require minimal maintenance.
A Zen zone in your yard is an asset if you prioritize relaxation and self-care. The good thing is that you don’t need to hire a designer to create it. Just follow these simple ideas and design an outdoor space for relaxation and calm living.
