Landscaping with a Wellness-Focus is the Way to Go
Four ways to infuse your outdoor space with elements that promote holistic well-being
The concept of wellness and its influence on creating outdoor living spaces is a growing trend in landscape design. Recognizing the pivotal role that nature plays in fostering overall wellness, homeowners are seeking elements aimed at promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being in their outdoor spaces. Here, we offer four key strategies to infuse wellness into your landscape design.
Incorporate spa features
Modern landscape design can transform outdoor areas into havens of relaxation. Spa-like amenities such as hot tubs, cold plunge pools, tranquil water features and outdoor rain showers not only provide physical rejuvenation, they offer mental respite from the stresses of daily life. Nestled within lush gardens, these spa features create a serene atmosphere, inviting individuals to unwind and recharge.
Provide a multi-sensory experience
Incorporating elements that engage the senses—meandering pathways, outdoor game areas, visually striking gardens—sets the stage for a truly immersive outdoor experience. From the vibrant colors of blooming flowers to the soothing sound of trickling water, each sensory interaction contributes to a heightened sense of well-being and connection to the environment.
Make space for food gardens
Homeowners are increasingly opting to cultivate vegetable patches, herb gardens, and orchards within their outdoor spaces. Beyond the practical benefits of homegrown produce, gardens can teach individuals, especially children, about the origins of their food and foster healthy dietary habits. Engaging in the process of growing and harvesting food reinforces a connection to nature and promotes a sense of accomplishment and well-being.
Reap the benefits of work in the garden
Beyond mere aesthetics, spending time actively engaged in garden maintenance offers a myriad of health benefits. Research has shown that gardening activities, such as planting, weeding, and pruning, can significantly improve both mental and physical health. Exposure to outdoor environments increases oxygen intake, reduces stress levels, and promotes relaxation. Furthermore, exposure to natural sunlight stimulates the production of vitamin D, essential for overall well-being.
As you can see, integrating wellness-focused elements into your landscape design results in outdoor living spaces that promote holistic well-being. By harmonizing nature and design, these features offer sanctuary from the demands of modern life, nurturing body and soul in the tranquility of the outdoors.
Phil Steinhauer is the owner and Principal Landscape Architect for Designscapes Colorado, a landscape architecture and design/build/maintenance firm based in Centennial, CO. View their profile or contact them at 303.721.9003.
Content for this article provided by Designscapes Colorado.
