These days, the pace of life is…hectic, to put it mildly. Doctors and mental health professionals are quick to point out the need for rest, calm, and personal rejuvenation, but many of us struggle to actually incorporate that advice into our daily lives. Tranquility and self-reflection are more vital than ever, but how many of us actually create time—and space—for personal growth and emotional wellbeing?
The good news is, you can have such a space, right in your own backyard—literally. With some planning and investment, you can turn your very own yard into an oasis dedicated to bringing you inner peace.
Here are some things to try as you work to create an outdoor sanctuary that benefits your mind, body, and spirit.
Take the (cold) plunge.
There’s a reason cold plunges are all the rage in the self-help world right now. Not only are cold plunges invigorating, they also have a myriad of other benefits, like boosting circulation, strengthening your immune system, and enhancing mental resilience. Cold plunges are also excellent tools for muscle recovery, stress reduction, and improving skin and hair health, making them a popular choice for everyone from athletes to stay-at-home parents.
Serious cold plunge enthusiasts who want to bring the chill to their backyard will probably want to invest in an actual cold plunge tub, which keeps the water at a set temperature so it’s always ready for you. If you aren’t quite sure about cold plunging yet, a large stainless steel tub filled with cold water can do the trick. You can even use your backyard pool in the colder months.
Escape to a sauna.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, some people might prefer the soothing warmth of a sauna for their outdoor oasis. Saunas have long been revered for their detoxifying properties and relaxation benefits, but even beyond these physical perks, a sauna creates a perfect sanctuary for mental clarity and introspection. Breathe out all the stress, breathe in inner peace, and repeat.
Create a meditation zone.
Want to keep things simple? You can create an outdoor sanctuary for self improvement without any additional equipment. All you really need is a secluded outdoor space and a comfortable place to sit (chair, cushion, towel, etc.).
Your meditative space will likely look different from others, but as long as it inspires a sense of calm and serenity, it will work.
Meditation is all about stillness. Create a space that helps you find that stillness in nature. And remember: meditation is a practice. Consider using guided meditations (many can be found for free on YouTube) to help you learn the art of being still.
Create space for hobbies.
Embracing creativity and your own personal interests will help you on your journey of self improvement, and you can use your outdoor space to help you dedicate an area to your hobbies. Consider creating a garden, a reading nook, a place to paint, a space to do yoga, a small desk for journaling or drawing, or even a beautiful setting to put on headphones and listen to music. This is your space, and there is no right or wrong way to use it!
Incorporate finishing touches.
Finishing touches can make all the difference in creating a space that inspires you and helps you relax.
Consider adding finishing touches that entice your senses, like:
- A stone garden
- A water feature
- Soft lighting
- A speaker to play music or a guided meditation
- Flowers or incense
- Wind chimes
- A small fan or soft blanket (depending on your climate and the season)
- A small sign displaying an inspirational quote
Personalize your sanctuary with elements that resonate with your own journey of self-discovery. Your space will be most effective to you when you infuse it with details that reflect your unique intentions.
Creating an outdoor space for self-improvement can be a powerful way to boost your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Without too much work or financial investment, you can cultivate a sanctuary that supports and empowers you on your journey of personal growth. So why wait? Step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and discover the transformative path that awaits you in your own backyard.
