Meg's Guide to Gardening: How to Make Your Own Zen Garden

After a hard day's work, you need somewhere to relax. A Zen garden is a great way to bring peace and tranquility to your life. Every aspect of a Zen garden -- its design, construction and upkeep -- is designed to quiet your spirit and take you away from the hustle and bustle of everyday drama. Rocks and sand make up the basic elements of a Zen garden but beyond that its aesthetics are up to you. Don't be afraid to be imaginative and branch out to create the Zen garden of your dreams.

Make an Outline for your Zen Garden 

Use a small container to place a thick line of sand to indicate where your Zen garden will sit. If the border of your Zen garden will have straight lines, snap a chalk line first to help you keep your edges straight.

Create the Zen Garden's Base 

Remove any grass and plants from inside the sand line. Use a flat shovel and make sure you get rid of all the roots or you'll have weeds sprouting through your Zen garden's gravel. Once the plants are gone, dig the soil to create a level base at least three inches below grade. Place black plastic liner over the garden base to inhibit weed growth. Cut the plastic sheets so that neighboring sheets overlap by one inch and the edges of the plastic go up but not over the walls of your Zen garden.

Add the Zen Garden's Rocks 

You can find the rocks you need for your Zen garden at your local quarry or landscaping supply. Fill the Zen garden bed with gravel (you can also use sand). Line medium-sized or large rocks around the Zen garden. Choose rocks of roughly the same size and color for the bed and for the border to create a uniform look. The color of the rocks or gravel is up to you. Traditionally a Zen garden's rocks are all the same color. White or black create the most visually striking looks.

Add Visual Elements to the Zen Garden Traditionally, the interior of a Zen garden isn't just a flat bed. Add two to three large visual elements in its center. Large boulders or potted trees are popular choices. As an alternative try large logs, sculptures or bird fountains. The elements are up to you, but the rock landscape should not be overly cluttered.

Design the Gravel or Sand 

Now that your Zen garden is installed, the fun can begin. Use a Zen garden rake to create long, curving lines in the garden bed. Create circles around your visual elements. The lines in a Zen garden represent flowing water. The creation of the lines should be a meditative experience. Relax and have a cup of tea before you head out.

Whenever you're feeling stressed, sit out and stare at your creation. Meditate on the flowing lines and the visual elements. Occasionally, re-rake the lines for a more active meditative experience.