April 2013 The Spiritual Spring GardenA recent trip to Macy's flower show, The Painted Garden, reminded me of the close relationship between gardens and sacred space and the power of flowers to inspire, elevate mood, heighten senses, and create feelings of abundance. The Painted Garden, on display through April 7 in Chicago, San Francisco, and other major cities, draws upon the bold, high-key palette of South Asia. Orchids, azaleas, bromeliads, palms, and more are arranged in bright, irresistible vignettes. With a nod to feng shui, some displays include water features, bells (air), lanterns (fire), and sacred imagery (Spirit). The gardens remind those in cold climes that spring, with its promise of beauty and renewal, will soon return. The Garden As Color TherapyThe Painted Garden utilizes bold colors to stimulate visual movement and elevate mood. People viewing the strong palette of primary and high-key colors became noticeably happier. If you create a spiritual garden, even if it is just a flowering plant and statue added to a windowsill, consider how color influences you and what mood you'd like to inspire. Do you want a calm, meditative palette? Do you wish to feature a particular chakra color? Do you want to stimulate creativity with strong colors? Chakra Colors in the Garden
Warm Colors:
Cool Colors: Violet, which can have warm undertones, is neither a warm color nor a solidly cool color. Long associated with royalty and the Seventh Chakra (spirituality), violet stimulates the part of the brain linked to problem solving. Incorporate violets, irises, and crocuses into your garden. For further ideas and to see which plants work well in your area, visit your local nursery. Be inspired. Paint your spiritual spring garden. |