Gardening can be a time of peace, relaxation, and tranquility. On a basic level, it can allow us the quiet time we need in a world that is filled with technology and demanding schedules. However, can gardening be used for meditation? Though the answer to this question may vary from one person to another, many agree that meditative gardening can be quite an enlightening experience. Meditating while gardening can allow growers to explore the soil, as well as their inner selves.
About Meditative Gardening
Meditation can mean different things to different people. Common definitions include a focus on mindfulness, curiosity, gratitude and intuition. Gardening as meditation can be both intentional or unintentional. As a matter of fact, the daily completion of growing tasks may naturally lend itself to the development of a closer connection with Earth and nature.
The process of nurturing a garden requires patience and commitment. As the plants grow, gardeners learn how to best care for their plants. These attributes are also key in meditative gardening, in which growers intentionally pay attention to metaphorical garden meaning, as well as the growing methods used.
Meditating while gardening is ideal for many reasons. Most notably, garden spaces can be quite serene. Being outdoors in nature allows us to become more grounded. This often allows our minds to become calmer. A calm mind is key in establishing a flow state in which to think freely. During this time, those who meditate may feel the need to ask questions, pray, repeat mantras, or any other favored technique.
Meditative gardening extends much beyond working the soil. From seed to harvest, growers are able to gain a better understanding of each stage of life and its importance. In going about our garden tasks uninterrupted, we are better able to explore our own thoughts and emotions on a deeper level. This self-reflection aides us as we attempt to acknowledge our own flaws and need for improvement.
For many of us, engaging in meditative gardening is the ultimate way to learn about appreciation and gratitude for our surroundings and others'.