“In Zen, we do not find the answers. We lose the questions”. This anonymous yet popular quote does have a profound impact; and indeed, tells us why the concept of Zen Garden ought to be an integral part of our lives. The concept of Zen Gardens originated in Buddhism, dating straight back to the 11th century. 

Also termed as ‘meditative garden’ in English nomenclature, it is a place where monks could go in medieval and contemporary times to seek solace and reflection. Here, those who are persevering the path of meditation could spend hours in contemplation and meditation within these surroundings. 

When we study the concept of creating a Zen Garden at home, then we would find that there are certain guiding principles that are expected to follow. The following are the 7 guiding principles around which the Zen Gardens are constructed.

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• Austerity (Koko), 
• Simplicity (Kanso), 
• Naturalness (Shinzen),
• Asymmetry (Fukinsei), 
• Mystery or Subtlety (Yugen), 
• Magical or Unconventional (Datsuzoku) and 
• Stillness (Seijaku). 

An ideal Zen Garden shall promote all or most of the principles listed above. There are certain items or accessories that are deemed optional in specific Zen-Garden settings. But one item that is indispensable in all Zen-Garden design ideas is the presence of the Buddha.

According to the principles of Vastu and Feng Shui, the presence of a Buddha in Zen Garden reduces the level of stress and bestows relaxation to the visitors. Besides, the process of raking up the garden accessories, including the rocks and pebbles helps as a meditative and therapeutic practice. 

That is why, a Buddha with Zen Garden for home is an essential part of any contemporary house with spacious layout. Here, we are going to kickstart the list of Zen ideas with the Zen Garden Buddha décor itself. Subsequent to which, we are going to enlist rest of the Zen accessories and ideas in two parts in order to elaborate them in the best possible manner.

#01. It All Begins with the Buddha Statue for Zen Garden 

Of course, the most obvious addition to the list a stone Buddha sculpture itself. Here, the concept of Zen Garden can be realized by the integration of stone itself. That is why, a natural stone Gautama Buddha statue is a must. If we go by the tradition, then the concept of Zen was founded in ancient India. When the Buddha held up a flower and the Mahākāśyapa smiled. According to Zen and Feng concept, enlightenment is achieved through the profound realization of the fact that one is also an 'enlightened' being. 

Here, some of the popular mudras of Gautam Buddha that are recommended for a Zen Garden including a Buddha in meditating dhyana mudra, Buddha in vitarka mudra, Buddha in bhumisparsha mudra, and Buddha in Anjali mudra. The impact of each mudra varies according to their Vastu influence. That is why, we recommend buying Zen Buddha online only after sharing the needs with the experts available for consultation from manufacturer's website.

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#02. Fountain for Zen Garden Represents the Flow of Life 

Japanese Zen Garden can be prepared in our garden, balcony, patio and even terrace in both dry and wet form. In dry Zen Garden, the concept of water is excluded, while only the subjects in natural stone and rock are incorporated. When we are including the water, it becomes one of the chief components of a Japanese garden. The flowing water from a water fountain represents vibrant energy and continuity in life. It is a symbol of life that whatever happens in life, one should never get stuck with it and keep moving on. Just like the flowing water from a cascading water feature symbolizes. 

Here, a combination of the Buddha with a water feature is also highly compatible for Zen Garden Feng and Zen Garden Vastu to promote peace, tranquility and relaxation in life. That is why, one can also buy Buddha fountain for Zen to combine two accessories into one and save space at the time of creating the garden. Here, the Buddha fountain for Zen Vastu can be available in single block marble or separate Buddha mounted upon granite or sandstone water features.

#03. Stone Planters for Zen Garden Introduces Biophilic Ideas 

Natural stone planters are known to restore and uphold a deep spiritual connection to the Earth. Buying planters for Zen introduces an overall sense of tranquility and balance to the vicinity. When you are buying planters for Zen, then the material with which they have been manufactured ought to be natural stone. The principal reason is that only stone planters can easily blend with other natural stone and rock components of a Zen Garden to build a seamlessly cohesive and harmonious environment.  

The natural stone and rocks present in the Zen Garden are symbolic to stability, permanence and enforce the enduring characteristics of mountains and Islands. Maintaining the plants in stone pots and containers can eventually turn out to become a meditative and mindful practice; besides incorporating a visual appeal and depth to the garden layout.

#04. Stepping Stones for Zen Garden to Guide the Journey 

When it comes to the installation of stepping stones in the Buddha Zen Garden, then we would find their functions beyond aesthetics. They are known to serve as the guide to the walker's path. They are known to encourage a deliberate pace and mindfulness to help you foster a deeper connection with the elements of the garden design by directing attention. 

The construction of an intentional walkway encourages contemplation and a slower but more observant approach to experiencing the space. As the deliberate placement of the stepping slabs in the Zen Garden demands conscious attention at each step. It inspires the person visiting the Buddha's Zen Garden to take a pause and be present at the moment. This mindful movement motivates the person to never linger in the past or think too much about the future. Simply stay in the present and the future itself be fruitful.

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We fully hope that the part one on this series of top Zen Garden Buddha decor ideas from experts would have helped you get a clear picture on what can be integrated for your next Zen design layout. We will share the remaining Zen Garden Buddha décor tips from experts in the second and the final part of this series.

Where to Buy Zen Garden Buddha Decor Products Online? 

It is time to buy all the necessary Zen Garden accessories online from Stonemart ™. Your very own ISO 9001:2015, CE certified largest stone manufacturer and exporter in India serving the global decor needs since 2006. Transforming premium quality raw natural stones into invaluable components of Zen décor, Feng and Vaastu products for door shipment to any part of the globe. 

Explore the most exclusive collection ever accessible online, made straight from the most talented hands of native Indian artisans and murtikars. Get your order placed today, and enjoy the doorstep delivery of much deserved Zen Garden products of international series with the most secured packaging and natural stone material quality that lasts for ages.