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Thoughts on Creating Spiritual Gardens by Holly Shimizu 
One of the most important ways that I measure success of a garden is how it changes the way you feel. In my youth I spent a great deal of time in a Japanese garden, and always felt close to heaven in its spaces. My memories of stepping stones, meandering streams, moss covering the earth, gentle breezes, and sweet fragrances made for powerful connections. And then, as an adult traveling to Japan, I was filled with those same sensory experiences in many of the historic gardens in Kyoto and realized that the whole experience was of a spiritual nature. This recognition lead me to thinking about ingredients and design approach to creating or enhancing the spiritual nature of a garden - and not simply trying to copy those in Asia. 
Gentle water sounds, like music, add to the garden’s serenity. Blended views, both inward and outward, give contrast to experience, just as rich textures of plants and pavings are used to achieve contrast. Well-placed focal points can pull you along on the journey and create a sense of mystery. Connections made with stepping stones or bridges help to move your eye. Simple layers of plantings as you would see in nature can add a lushness and depth to the space. 
If you are interested in pursuing this subject further, consider referring to Spiritual Gardening–Creating Sacred Space Outdoors by Peg Streep (Time Life Books, 1999), or Elizabeth Murray’s Cultivating Sacred Space: Gardening for the Soul (Pomegranate Books, 1998). It might inspire you to bring more of the spiritual into your own garden. Ms. Shimizu is Executive Director of the United States Botanic Garden in Washington, DC. The Cathedral Greenhouse and The Museum Store at Washington National Cathedral offer many more titles on gardening, nature, animals, and the spiritual. For more information or a list of current titles in stock, please e-mail us at vine@cathedral.org or call during business hours at (202) 537-6263. Special requests can also be made if you are in search of a specific title. Please visit our Special Ordering page. |
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