It was such a pleasure to sink one’s hands into the warm earth, to feel at one’s fingertips the possibilities of the new season.”
Kate Morton, The Forgotten Garden
To enjoy creation and the beauty that surrounds, we have to try to go outdoors whenever possible. Often we hear and experience the realism that a scene provides that you cannot fully understand by an image alone. We need to feel the breeze, smell the fragrant air, feel the warm sunshine on our skin, and hear the birds chirping.
When one has little to no space, frequent enjoyment can be difficult, but not impossible. For example, you can locate a park nearby and enjoy frequent walks, perhaps in the morning before work, in the evening after your workday, or during your lunch break. Those moments of solitude will do wonders for your health.
If you have a small space at home, perhaps a porch or balcony, create your solitude. Add a comfortable chair or bistro set, add color, such as pillows, that beckons you to sit for awhile. Surround yourself with plants that will give you enough delight and a slight feeling of being in a peaceful garden. Whatever makes you smile and relax.
If you have a window you stare out of often, such as your home office, consider adding a window box with flowers that will last several months (or replant annuals as the seasons change) and open your window often (if you don’t suffer from allergies). If you enjoy fragrant blossoms, some you might try are dianthus, freesia, or daphne.
We all need to set aside a little time every day in this hectic, chaotic world, to pause and refresh. Creating your garden space, corner, or window will offer you a reprieve and give you something to look forward to. Put your tired feet up, drink your tea or wine, close your eyes, and be in the moment. Feel the breeze, smell your flowers, listen to the birds. Then open your eyes and gaze about your corner of solitude and enjoy your surroundings.
