Think about the last time you relaxed. Did it come naturally to you? Or did you have to work at settling your mind? Was it nearly impossible to resist the urge to check your email or your Facebook account?
In today’s hectic, wired, and always-connected world, it can be hard to just do nothing. Many of us need a transitional ritual or exercise to take us from everyday life to down time.
That’s why the backyard retreat is becoming a popular addition for many homeowners. For those of us who need a reason to go outside and relax, gardens and water features give us just that. The sights and sounds of a waterfall can effortlessly calm frazzled nerves. Watching dragonflies dart around or fish swimming calmly through a pond lit by underwater lights are great ways to wind down after a busy day.
Creating a Natural Habitat in Your Own Backyard
More than just a vehicle for relaxation, outdoor gardens are critical to protecting our resources. Nature has been disappearing over the last few decades while we’ve been too busy stuck inside to notice. As the world grows, natural habitats shrink. Wildlife and insect devastation is happening on a global scale. Close to home is the bat and bee population decline we’re experiencing in the Midwest.
People often wonder what difference one person can make. But the answer is clear – one person can actually make a big difference. By planting native plants and flowers in your yard, you can help the local insect population and reduce carbon emissions.
“Just a small bit of habitat in our backyards makes all the difference in our small part of the world. We can create a healthy environment for critters and humans alike while reducing pollution and conserving water,” says Steve Wicker of Cool Ponds, an Indianapolis based company that specializes in outdoor water features. “Nature has a way of detoxifying our spirits and grounding us back to earth. Today’s world is so high speed and people need a way to unwind their bodies, minds and spirits.”
“Our ponds and pondless waterfalls are hands-on interactive landscaping that can be seen day and night. People get to enjoy feeding fish, blooming aquatic plants that don’t need to be watered, birds bathing in the waterfalls and creeks, and squirrels drinking from the creeks and ponds.”
What To Look For in an Outdoor Water Feature
Your backyard water feature can be a wonderful, relaxing addition to your home. But it must be planned to suit your needs and your individual space. Cool Ponds offers classes to teach owners about water gardening. With more than just support after the installation, Wicker says they’re available to answer the many questions you’ll have once you get your new feature in place.
Cool Ponds is a locally owned and operated business that buys American made products whenever possible.
Wicker also sees rainwater harvesting as the future of sustainability. “We can capture rainwater and reuse it to water landscapes, wash the car, wash the dog, and many other uses. It reduces the demand on fresh water and reduces rainwater run off.” The system at Cool Ponds’ retail store holds 1,200 gallons of water, and Wicker says they never seem to use it all.
Spring is almost here. It’s the perfect time to get outside. Plant some native flowers, encourage the local wildlife… and RELAX… knowing you and Mother Nature make a good team!
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