In this fast paced hectic world there seems to be less time and less places for some of us to experience moments of peace and serenity. We all have our ways, strategies and secrets to personal success; but we don’t always enjoy and relish those accomplishments in a reflective space. I know of some people who awaken before the sunrise to steal an hour or so of quiet time. Before the blowers start blowing and the mowers start mowing, they turn the ringers off and the alarms are hushed. This is so they can maintain those precious minutes in total silence. These moments help to prepare them for their day in a patient, serene and focused manner. I wish I was a morning person so I, too, could enjoy the beginnings of my days in such a pleasant state of mind. However, I am not- and after many years of being a night owl I have found that changing my ways takes a certain amount of fortitude and discipline that I have yet to master. Yet, the more time moves on the more I realize that a little change for the positive goes a long way throughout any given day.
Now what does any of this have to do with landscaping, you may ask? Well, quite a bit really. See, I have found that I can tap into that place of calmness and serenity almost any time of the day in a garden. It doesn’t have to be my personal garden and it usually isn’t. I have worked as a gardener in hundreds of plots and landscapes over the years and I am always aware of the peace that resides within, when I am there. When I owned my gardening company in Colorado, I would encourage my clients to utilize their garden and outdoors spaces for their sanity. I’d encourage them to walk around and smell the flowers, recognize growth and observe the little things that typically go unnoticed. Indeed, gardens are a metaphor for life. They require attention, care and a little assistance in order to perform at their best. In return, they give joy through bloom and provide a place for the smallest and largest beings to thrive. Since most of us don’t have a Zen garden, we have to utilize the spaces we have to nurture and to be nurtured. I continuously encourage others to walk amongst the living and breathe deep the bounty that is offered in color, texture, beauty and constant change. Be adventurous and find gardens and landscapes that are open to the public. Observe, notice and breathe in what the gardens give. I am quite certain that you too will find peace, even if only for a moment.
~Jamie Sloan
Account Manager
DeSantis Landscapes