Zen gardens, also known as Japanese rock gardens or dry landscape gardens, were classically created at temples of Zen Buddhism. They were intended to imitate the intimate essence of nature and they were places where people could meditate about the true meaning of life and find their inner peace. Simply, zen gardens were designed to stimulate meditation.

Zen gardens are usually composed of gravel, sand and rocks. However, they can also include small bushes and water features. In addition, all of the features have specific symbolic meanings which makes zen gardens so unique. Next we explain the symbolic meanings of the mini zen garden features.

SAND AND GRAVEL

Gravel is less disturbed by wind and rain so it’s rather used than sand. Gravel and sand symbolizes water – purity, emptiness and distance.

RAKING

The act of raking the gravel into a pattern represents of waves or rippling water. Raking is meant to help to practice concentration. Perfect lines are not easy to achieve so it’s a great way to meditate. Developing variations in patterns are inspiring and creative challenge.

ROCKS AND STONES

These elements can symbolize various of meanings. Stone arrangements usually represents such as mountains, islands, rivers and waterfalls. One stone could represent a boat or a living creature like a turtle. Group of stones could symbolize even a crane in flight. Shortly, stone can have a meaning what you give to them.

While these gardens are very common in Japan, in western countries we don’t always have a peaceful place to clear our mind. With mini zen garden, also known as desktop zen garden, you can have a piece of zen in your home or working spot. Next you can find out the benefits of these mini zen gardens.