In the middle of busy days and weeks, why not pause
and take time to tend a mini mindfulness garden?
Based on the idea of a Zen garden this DIY sand and
rock project is easy to make, and a good way to slow
down your mind. To add an element of fun and kawaii
(a Japanese term that means cute), this garden uses
pastel colors and some not-so-scary dinosaurs.

Japanese rock gardens or dry landscape gardens are often
connected with Zen Buddhism, as they help create a way
for people to meditate, especially while forming patterns
in sand or pebbles. The designs, made with rakes, represent
waves or ripples of water. Traditional gardens like this are
large enough to walk through, but still considered miniature
landscapes with lots of symbolism.

This mindfulness garden project is even smaller so you can bring
the same peaceful sensory experience to your desk each day!

Although not designed specifically with children in mind, kids
will also love trying the rake to comb the sand or perhaps play
with the dinosaurs. It's a lighthearted way to introduce them
to the art of slowing down one's mind for a few minutes.

The most essential elements of a Japanese rock garden, large or small,
are the sand and rake, followed by rocks and other elements like
plants or statues. This tutorial shows you how to make your own mini
rake, as well as some cute plants and figures. You can easily swap
out some elements to customize your desktop meditation garden.

Each element of this DIY sand garden goes together fairly quickly,
but they do need time for paint or glue to dry. You can work
on the different pieces as you wait for others to set up.

Now, let's get started!