About half of Americans believe that their stress level has increased over the last five years. Are you one of these people? If so, you need to make some lifestyle changes that can help you reduce stress and relax.
Enjoying some garden relaxation time can help you feel calmer and release stress. However, you need to create a backyard environment that’s relaxing to be in. This could mean changing the landscaping, adding focal features, or a new outdoor furniture arrangement.
This guide will show you how to make your garden more relaxing.
Feature the View
Homeowners that are lucky enough to have a view should take advantage of it. Create a landscape design that features the view. This gives you something pleasing to look at and focus on as you calm your mind.
Trim the trees and bushes back to not block the view. Arrange the furniture so that it isn’t blocking the view. It should be positioned so that you can sit and relax while also easily observing the scenery.
Add a Water Feature
Create a calming environment with the soundtrack of running water. Match your water feature to the style of your backyard and garden.
- Pond
- Birdbath
- Wading pool
- Koi pond
- Fountain
You’ll be able to relax in the garden as the soft sounds of water wash away the outside world. Scientists have found that the sounds of nature, especially running water, physically alter the connections in your brain. The result is a reduction in the body’s natural fight or flight instinct.
Create Comfortable Seating
It doesn’t matter how relaxing the garden is; if you don’t have a comfortable place to sit, you can never fully relax. You need plenty of comfortable seating options for different relaxation styles. Deep-seated options are more relaxing because you can lean back and sink into them.
You can also add alternative seating, such as a hammock. These straps will help you hang a hammock between two trees. Consider a lounger or chaise lounge other options that let you lay back.
Create Shade
Sitting in the hot sun and baking with sweat rolling down your face isn’t relaxing. A big umbrella will evoke feelings of a tropical vacation resort. Choose one that’s brightly colored and large enough to provide you with plenty of shade.
You can also create shade with a gazebo or pergola. These are permanent structures that are large enough to cover a dining table or living room setup.
Planting large shade trees can also provide you with enough shade and a relaxing atmosphere. Choose plants that are native to your climate, so they thrive. Some good options are poplar, oak, catalpa, maple, sycamore, or willow.
Enjoy Some Garden Relaxation
Isn’t it time you enjoy some garden relaxation time on your patio or deck? A plain concrete patio isn’t welcoming or relaxing. So add some small blooming plants and larger shade-providing ones.
Arrange some comfortable plush seating. Then add a fountain or other water feature.
Browse our other articles for more helpful lifestyle and health tips to staying happy and healthy.
