Reclaim Your Outdoor Space: Landscaping Solutions for a Relaxing Oasis
Your outdoor space is more than just a patch of grass, a few plants, or an empty patio. It’s an extension of your home, a place where you can retreat from the hustle and bustle of the world, find peace and relaxation, and reconnect with nature. The magic of an outdoor oasis is undeniable, and the impact it can have on your wellbeing is substantial. Imagine stepping into a haven where the sounds of rustling leaves and gentle bird songs calm your senses and wash away the stress of the day.
Reclaiming your outdoor space and transforming it into a serene retreat requires vision, planning, and some gardening know-how. But don’t worry; you don’t have to be a seasoned gardener to create a relaxing outdoor haven. With the right guidance, some creativity, and a bit of hard work, you can craft an inviting outdoor environment that not only enhances your property but also enriches your life. Whether you have a sprawling garden, a modest balcony, or even just a tiny window sill, there are ways to make the most of what you have and create your very own relaxing oasis.
Finding Your Ideal Landscaper
Selecting the right landscaper is crucial for crafting your perfect outdoor retreat. As you embark on this journey, you want someone who understands your local environment, your space constraints, and your aesthetic preferences. A professional landscaper will help you maximise your space, select the most suitable plants, and create a design that resonates with your personal style.
Before diving into any landscaping project, it’s essential to ensure that your chosen plants, structures, and layout will not adversely affect the existing trees or surrounding ecosystem. In many cases, an arboricultural survey is needed to ensure the safety and health of the trees in your garden. This survey will identify potential risks, like weak or diseased trees, and provide recommendations for their safe removal or maintenance.
Working with a professional who has experience performing an arboricultural survey is not just about complying with local regulations; it’s about showing respect for the trees that share your space. These majestic organisms provide us with shade, beauty, and the air we breathe. The least we can do is ensure their safety as we transform our gardens.
The Power of Landscaping: More Than Just Aesthetics
A well-designed garden can do more than beautify your property. It can transform spaces and lives, becoming a haven of peace and tranquillity for those who need it most. A prime example of this transformative power is the 2022 Chelsea Flower Show gold medal-winning garden, The Mind Garden, created by renowned landscape gardener Andy Sturgeon.
In 2023, Andy Sturgeon’s creation found a new home. The Mind Garden was transported up the M6 and carefully rebuilt in School Street, Barrow, turning a barren wasteland into a thriving oasis. The project was undertaken in collaboration with the mental health charity Mind, in Furness, highlighting the therapeutic benefits of gardening.
Andy Sturgeon, a nine-time Chelsea Flower Show gold medal winner, wanted to harness the healing power of gardening and provide a much-needed refuge for the community. Upon seeing his creation come to life in Barrow, Mr Sturgeon expressed his delight to the BBC: “Seeing the garden recreated in a place where it will get used by so many people is incredibly rewarding.”
Sarah Hughes, the chief executive of Mind, echoed Mr Sturgeon’s sentiment. “We know that nature can do wonders for our mental health, creating idyllic moments to relieve stress and anxiety or inspiring those all-important conversations about our mental wellbeing,” she said.
The Mind Garden, with its silver birch trees, curved benches, and hedges, is now a symbol of hope and solace for those in the area struggling with their mental health. As the garden thrives and continues to be cared for, we can only imagine the countless lives it will touch, offering a place of respite for those in need.
Creating Your Personal Haven: Landscaping Tips for a Relaxing Retreat
Regardless of whether you live in a bustling city or a tranquil countryside, having a peaceful place to call your own is essential for your mental wellbeing. Crafting your personal retreat is a journey that requires thoughtful consideration and creativity. Let’s explore the many ways to create your haven, embracing elements that can make your space truly special.
Raised Beds and Planters: Maximising Space and Accessibility
Raised beds and planters are versatile additions to any garden. They can add dimension and contrast to a flat space, provide better soil control, and make gardening easier on your back and knees. Whether you prefer a formal or naturalistic look, you can customise the shape, size, and materials of your raised beds and planters to match your design aesthetic.
Choosing the Right Plants: Your Allies in Relaxation
Choosing the right plants is crucial in creating a serene outdoor retreat. Consider your garden’s soil, sunlight, and water conditions when selecting plants. Go for a mix of perennial and annual plants to provide year-round interest. Incorporate various textures, colours, and heights to create a visually appealing and dynamic landscape. Fragrant plants can also enhance your garden experience by engaging another one of your senses.
Plant Vertically: Maximising Space and Adding Beauty
When space is at a premium, vertical gardening is a smart way to maximise your garden’s potential. Use trellises, wall planters, or hanging baskets to grow upwards. This technique is perfect for small gardens or balconies where floor space is limited. Vertical gardening can also provide privacy, create a visually appealing backdrop, and make it easier to access your plants for maintenance.
Privacy Matters: Create a Secluded Space
Privacy is essential when creating a relaxing outdoor space. Use fencing, hedges, or strategically placed trees and shrubs to create natural barriers. Consider incorporating lattice screens or pergolas with climbing plants to create a cosy and intimate atmosphere. By adding privacy elements to your garden, you can create a secluded retreat where you can escape the world and focus on your wellbeing.
Expanding Your Space: Mirrors, Glass, and Illusions
If your garden is on the smaller side, there are tricks to make it feel larger. Use diagonal lines, curved pathways, and varying plant heights to create a sense of depth. Incorporate mirrors or reflective surfaces to give the illusion of more space. Opt for a cohesive colour palette to create a harmonious and expansive feel. By implementing these strategies, you can make the most of your outdoor space, no matter its size.
Furniture Selection: Comfort and Practicality
The right furniture can enhance your garden’s comfort and functionality. Choose weather-resistant pieces that complement your garden’s style and fit your space. Opt for comfortable seating with cushions, and consider adding a table for outdoor dining. Arrange your furniture in a way that encourages conversation and relaxation. Remember to consider storage solutions for your cushions, gardening tools, or other outdoor accessories.
Relaxing Sounds: The Magic of Water Features and Wind Chimes
There’s nothing more calming than the gentle trickle of water or the soft tinkling of wind chimes on a breezy day. Incorporate water features like fountains, ponds, or waterfalls to add a soothing auditory element to your garden. Wind chimes, strategically placed near seating areas or entrances, can provide a gentle, melodic background. These elements not only enhance the beauty of your garden but also drown out any unwanted noise from nearby traffic or neighbours.
Softening a Sloping Garden: Grass Steps and Terracing
Sloping gardens can be challenging to navigate and may seem less inviting. By incorporating grass steps into the design, you can turn a potential drawback into a unique feature. Grass steps create a natural, flowing transition between different levels of your garden, making it easier to explore and enjoy. They also add a soft, lush element to the space, providing a comfortable spot to sit or lie down.
A Blooming Roof: Flowering Roof Gardens
If you have a pergola, arbour, or similar structure, consider adorning it with climbing plants. Flowering vines like wisteria, clematis, or roses can transform a simple structure into a stunning focal point. This addition not only adds visual interest to your garden but also creates a fragrant and picturesque overhead canopy. A flowering roof can provide shade, enhance privacy, and immerse you in a sea of colour and scent.
Simple Scheme, Strong Details: The Power of Simplicity
When it comes to garden design, less is often more. A simple, cohesive colour scheme and a focus on detail can make your garden feel more curated and intentional. Choose a limited palette of colours and textures, and repeat them throughout the garden for a harmonious and balanced look. Pay attention to the finer details, such as the placement of garden ornaments, the choice of containers, or the layout of stepping stones. These small touches can make a big difference in creating a relaxing and visually appealing space.
Gardening for Mental Health: The Therapeutic Power of Nature
The stresses and pressures of everyday life can be overwhelming, and research has consistently shown that spending time in nature can provide significant relief. Gardens and gardening have emerged as particularly potent stress relievers. According to an article by Thrive, an organisation focused on gardening for health, there is considerable evidence that engaging with gardens can help reduce stress and improve mental health. The process of gardening allows individuals to immerse themselves in nature, nurturing plants and watching them grow.
Mark Lane, an ambassador for Thrive, can personally attest to the therapeutic power of gardening. Following a severe car accident in 2000, Lane’s mental health suffered during a long and challenging rehabilitation period. He credits gardening with saving his life during this critical time. “Gardening has been a lifesaver for me. In 2000, I had a serious car accident, and during a lengthy rehabilitation, my mental health suffered badly. Falling in love with gardening turned my life around at such a vital moment,” Lane says.
Thrive has adopted gardening as a means to help others in similar situations. The organisation works to connect individuals with nature, reveal their potential, and offer a supportive and inclusive community. Thrive’s approach shows that no matter a person’s circumstances, gardening and the benefits it brings can be a life-changing turning point. As Lane puts it, “This kind of turning point is what Thrive provide for so many people. No matter a person’s circumstances, Thrive connects them with nature, shows them their potential and provides a warm, inclusive community. I’m proud to be an ambassador of a charity that utilise the health benefits of gardening and share these benefits with so many people. With your support, Thrive can continue their life-changing work.”
The full story and the mission of Thrive can be found on the BBC website, where you can watch a 9-minute episode on Thrive and read statements from others who have found help with the organisation.
Finding Support: Gardening Charities and Community Projects
When grappling with mental health challenges, it’s essential to know that you are not alone. Numerous organisations and community initiatives are available to help. Mind, a mental health charity, and Thrive, for instance, offer resources and support for those seeking to improve their mental wellbeing through nature and gardening. Participating in community gardening projects, joining gardening clubs, or attending workshops can provide opportunities for social interaction, skill development, and a shared appreciation for the natural world.
Wrapping Up
Your outdoor space is not just an aesthetic statement; it’s a reflection of your inner sanctuary, a bridge between you and the restorative power of nature. The act of landscaping and gardening, of engaging with the soil and plants, can be deeply therapeutic, providing a respite from the challenges of daily life. As we’ve seen from individuals like Mark Lane and many others, a garden can become a pivotal place of healing, transformation, and rejuvenation.
In cultivating our gardens, we also cultivate our wellbeing, finding solace in every petal and leaf. We’re reminded that amidst the cacophony of modern life, there exists a tranquil space ready to embrace us. It beckons us to pause, breathe, and reconnect. So, whether you’re starting with a modest balcony or a sprawling garden, remember that every gardening journey is a step towards serenity and self-discovery. Embrace it, and let your garden be the oasis you’ve always imagined.
