Creating a garden is a beautiful expression of art and personal storytelling. It allows us to escape from the stresses of everyday life and immerse ourselves in the beauty of nature. Each garden is unique, reflecting the personality and style of the gardener who tends to it. For me, gardening is a solitary activity, where I connect with nature using only my hands, tools, and thoughts.
Gardeners find joy in solitude, working in all weather conditions, planting seeds, and nurturing growth. We take pride in the blooms and produce that our gardens yield, constantly tending to their needs and researching the best practices for their care. Despite the challenges we face, such as pests, weather, and soil quality, we return to our gardens time and time again, finding solace in the act of gardening.
One concept that gardening has taught me is “Yutori,” a Japanese philosophy that promotes creating space in life to relax and rejuvenate. In my garden, I practice Yutori by slowing down, breathing in the fresh air, and appreciating the beauty of nature. It allows me to create a space where I can unwind, reflect, and find peace amidst the chaos of daily life.
My journey into gardening began over 40 years ago when I purchased a small house in South San Francisco during a tumultuous time in my life. Despite my initial hesitations, a chance encounter with an elderly gardener named Stan changed my perspective on gardening. Stan, a war veteran, shared his passion for gardening with me, teaching me the basics and helping me cultivate my own garden.
Through Stan’s guidance, I discovered the therapeutic benefits of gardening. The physical labor and mindfulness required in tending to a garden helped me find peace and tranquility within myself. Each day, I found joy in observing the growth of my plants, the buzzing of bees, and the beauty of nature unfolding before me.
In essence, gardening is not just about cultivating plants; it is about finding inner peace and serenity. My garden has become a sanctuary where I can escape the stresses of the world and connect with the natural world around me. It is a place where I can be fully present in the moment, experiencing the beauty of nature with all my senses.
In conclusion, gardening is a form of self-care that allows us to nurture our minds, bodies, and souls. It is a practice that promotes mindfulness, reduces stress, and fosters a deep connection with the natural world. Through the art of gardening, we can find peace, joy, and solace in the simple act of tending to our gardens.