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Create an outdoor sanctuary

Remember that spiritual gardening does not involve huge investments of time or money, nor does it require a great deal of space. The object is to create an oasis where your spirit can flourish - not to add another item to your to-do list. Plan your garden with maintenance in mind, and be realistic about how much time and effort you are willing and able to commit to your garden

Here are a few ideas that can turn any garden into sacred space:

Add a focal point to the garden to be used for meditation. Any object that has personal resonance can be become the garden's spiritual centre. Among the many possibilities are statues, gazing balls, melodious wind chimes or Japanese-style stone lanterns. Create a water feature to bring energy and sound into your sanctuary. Again, think simple, not grandiose: A small fountain or a water garden with a few aquatic plants will make your garden a place of relaxation and respite.

Plant a butterfly garden in a sunny and sheltered area. Butterflies are ancient symbols of soul, as well as emblems of transformation. Among the plants you may want to consider are cosmos, lilacs, buddleia, asters and coreopsis, which all attract butterflies. Plant marigolds and mint as a treat for the cabbage butterfly.

Create a meditation path. Once again, this can be done on any scale. Try a simple meandering path of strewn pine needles, a winding gravel path or a stepping stone walkway.

Add a bench to your garden for moments of quiet contemplation. Study your garden before you decide its placement; let all of your senses inform your choice.

Plant for tranquillity. Choose easy-to-maintain plants with deliberately muted colours such as greens, soft pastels and creams. Keep in mind that reds, yellows and oranges stimulate the senses. Go with soft colours to create an oasis of calm in a busy world.

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