10 Tips for Creating a Backyard OasisWhy a backyard oasis? We live in a high paced world with little down time. It is no wonder more than half of Americans experienced moderate levels of stress during the last year [1]. Sometimes stress is so pervasive it follows us into bed. Indeed, recent studies show stress keeps half of Americans up at night [1].
Effectively Dealing with StressInstead of letting stress take a negative toll on your life, take the time to create an area for relaxation. A backyard oasis is the perfect place to decompress and let the day’s stress wash away. Following these ten tips, you’ll be able to create a relaxing paradise in your own backyard.1. Look at the Big PictureTry to balance the overall design of your backyard space. Consider your own tastes and use elements that help you to relax. Perhaps a tiled patio surrounded by scented shrubbery and accented by modern patio furniture.Take advantage of your space. Installing walkways, which flow from one space to another, is a great way to maximize the perceived area of your yard. A private nook hidden away is perfect for more intimate moments. 2. Cultivate Your RelaxationWhat do you enjoy about an outdoor space? Do you enjoy tending a large lawn or cultivating challenging plants? Then plan your backyard oasis accordingly. Plant roses or an herb garden to keep yourself occupied outdoors.If you prefer a space with minimal needs, then create landscape elements that are hassle free. Create a large deck or patio area. Plant hardy trees appropriate for your climate, and surround them with mulch to keep weeds at bay. 3. Cultivate Calming ColorsCertain colors can help you relax and feel at ease. Blues and greens are good choices.Feng Shui colors can help you to create harmony in your outdoor space [2]. Each space has its own ideal colors based on which of the elements match your setting. Look at an energy map and plan accordingly. There are many opportunities for colors. Consider plants and their flowers, and don’t forget to check when they bloom. Add colorful cushions to your patio furniture. Pick out colorful tiles to complement your outdoor space. 4. Create the Right Auditory ExperienceAdding soothing sounds to your backyard can go a long way to enhancing relaxation. Consider subtle chimes that ring in the breeze.Water elements relax most people. Even a small fountain is enough to drown out the outside world. Add a birdbath or waterfall and you’ll soon have a variety of natural bird songs. You don’t have to limit yourself to natural sounds. Install speakers on your deck or patio. You’ll enjoy listening to your favorite music in your backyard oasis, and you’ll be able to set the mood when hosting friends or family. 5. Getting Back to NatureNature is a great way to take your mind off of day-to-day stress. It is possible to provide an inviting atmosphere in your backyard that will soon be teeming with life. Choose flowers that will attract birds, bees, and butterflies.Provide bushes and trees for nesting birds. Soon your yard will be alive with buzzing and chirping. Hummingbird feeders are another nice touch, and will bring in these beautiful creatures in no time. 6. Choose Comfortable FurniturePurchasing the right patio furniture is well worth the initial investment and essential to your backyard oasis. Choose items that will last outdoors, but still be a pleasure to use. Consider stretching a hammock between trees for those summer naps. Gliders are great for the lawn, and a bench near the garden provides a nice escape.7. Accommodate the SeasonsConsider the seasons and elements when designing your outdoor space. Make sure you have a shady area for hot summer days. A ceiling fan above the patio can do wonders. Umbrellas can provide much needed shade over lawn seating. For cooler weather, you’ll want an open area providing access to the direct sunlight.8. Stimulate All Your SensesDon’t neglect your senses of smell or taste. Including sweet mouthwatering aromas and relaxing scents will make your backyard oasis even more comfortable. Herb gardens are great for creating olfactory delights. Basil, mints, and sage provide bursts of aroma through the summer breeze. Lavender and chamomile are also good aromatic choices. Select scented candles to set the mood in your patio, or even place a few candles near a secluded bench or swing. Essential oils and incense can add to the atmosphere of your yard too.9. Add Warmth With FireA fire is a great way to take your mind off things. Flames have an entrancing effect on most people. Consider a small fire pit or an outdoor fireplace to warm up cool evenings.Tiki torches add needed lighting in secluded nooks. Candles add ambience in any quite corner. 10. Don’t Forget the GamesThe backyard makes a perfect location for playing relaxing games with friends and family. Lawn games like croquet and horseshoes are great for passing time. Getting a little exercise with your friends helps to melt away daily stress.Have a chessboard or wei chi board stowed away on the patio for afternoon games of strategy. Concentrating on challenging games is a sure way to take your mind off things. Take Advantage of Your New SanctuaryFor most people, some degree of stress is unavoidable. However, it is how we deal with our stress that really matters. When your life seems too hectic, take time for yourself in your relaxing backyard paradise.
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