So many people recommend meditation these days, for both mental and physical health. Doctors, therapists and religious leaders often recommend meditation to lower the blood pressure, lessen anxiety and clear the mind. Religious people can combine meditation with prayer, but meditation doesn't have to be religious in nature to be effective. If you want to tackle stress in your life, meditation is the answer.

Garden Plaques, Fountains and Meditation

If you are lucky enough to have a garden, then you already have your perfect meditation spot. It's important to meditate in the same spot or two, day after day. You can sit in your garden during good weather, and inside your home when it rains or when it's cold. When you sit out in your garden, I recommend surrounding yourself with items that will make relaxing and meditating easier.

For some people, this may mean placing a bench near a water fountain. Look for inspiring pieces, like angel water fountains. The melody of the water will help lower your blood pressure, and calm your mind. Next, you'll want to set an item at eye level. Garden plaques can be an inspiring choice. Look for an item that moves you, like a cherub, or a bit of flora. You may want to begin your meditation every day by staring at the plaque and clearing your mind. Having a visual touchstone is often used as a meditation tool, to help clear the mind.

Stick with it for at least a few weeks, with three or more sessions per week. I bet you'll soon grow to think of your time in the garden as one of your happiest times of the day. The trickling water, oxygen-rich air and delicious scents will put you in a state of happy calm. Until you use your garden to center yourself and let go of stress, you're not really using your garden to its full potential.