Karesansui（枯山水）: Finding peace in the art of Japanese rock gardens

The Japanese rock garden is such an icon that most people have this image in mind when they think of Japan. For me, the idea behind karesansui offers many options to be mindful so I wanted to share how I use them with you.

Karesansui, which translates to "dry landscape" in English, is a traditional Japanese garden style that is designed to evoke a sense of serenity and simplicity. These gardens typically consist of carefully arranged rocks, gravel or sand, and minimalistic vegetation. The bottom picture in the collage is from a a karesansui garden in the Hakone Estate and Gardens close to San Francisco, worth a visit!

One of the key aspects of karesansui is the act of raking the gravel or sand into intricate patterns, known as raked gravel patterns. This meditative practice requires a great deal of focus and attention to detail, making it an ideal way to cultivate mindfulness. Carefully raking is a type of focused attention that can help quiet the mind and promote a sense of inner peace.

If you can't rake because you don't have a garden, simply observing a karesansui garden can also be a powerful mindfulness practice. The carefully placed rocks and minimalist landscaping invite viewers to slow down and appreciate the beauty of simplicity. By taking the time to fully engage with the garden, you can cultivate a sense of presence and awareness, allowing you to let go of stress and worries.

I don't have a garden and opportunities to visit the Japanese gardens in and around San Francisco don't come that often, so I decided to make my own little piece of Japanese garden on our tiny balcony (top picture). Just putting in a resin Buddha waterfeature and some green plants has greatly improved the space, and I love going out there and taking care of my plants. And, of course being able to sit out there while reading a book or talking to faraway friends is a great bonus!

Do you have a mindful space in your home or garden?