Intentional Garden Practices

We can bring focused awareness to any activity. It is a matter of practice and intention. One of my favorite practices is to work with a concept inspired by the garden and let that filter my experiences for the week (or longer.)  There are more details on this practice on the page, Working with Focus Words.   And the last section of my book, Growing Mindful, provides insight on 52 different plants and their correspondences which can be used for mindful focus.

When first beginning a mindfulness practice it is also easier to start with small increments. If you are heading out to the garden to plant, weed, or prune, set aside a specific amount of time to practice being fully present as you do these activities. Tune into the process with all of your senses. When your mind wanders to the grocery list or the phone call you need to make (because it will) just gently bring your attention back to the task at hand.   You can hold a question in your awareness like:

• What sights and sounds am I noticing in the garden that I am usually not aware of?

By setting a brief amount of time to start with, you’ll achieve success and are more likely to stick with an ongoing practice.