Mini Zen Gardens

How long it’ll take:

20-30 minutes

What the goal is:

Each camper build a unique Zen garden

What the objectives are:

Campers will gain a new creative outlet that teaches them about being present. Campers will learn about mindfulness and Living Balanced.

What you’ll need: prep campers and parents for this activity the day before so that they can bring items from home

• 1 shallow box/bowl/plate with a lip (container for garden) OR can make these in small holes dug into the ground

• 1-2 cups Pebbles/sand/dirt/rice (substrate for garden)

• Small natural items to decorate our garden ( small rocks, succulents, pine cones, leaves, sticks, etc.)

• 1-2 small personal items that reflect who you are (figurines, trinkets, etc.)

  • These will be placed in the garden

• 1 Fork/toothpick (rake for garden)

What you’ll do:

Watch this video for an idea of how you should teach this activity:

https://vimeo.com/413278045

1. Give an introduction to mindfulness and how slowing down can impact your life.

2. In a plate or tray of some sort (needs edges), spread a thin layer of your chosen garden substrate.

3. Place stones or other natural materials to decorate your garden. Push them into the substrate so they don’t move around.

4. Using a comb, fork or toothpick, etch a pattern into the substrate around the stones.

5. Have campers place personal items in their garden.

6. Once all campers' gardens are complete, go on a 'garden tour'. Ask each camper to share what they’ve created and why they picked their design.

7. Return to your zen garden when you need a quiet moment through the week, when campers need a break, or when campers express an interest in re-working their design.