There’s nothing more soothing and relaxing than the presence and sound of gently running water in the garden. Whether it’s a tranquil reflective pool or a fountain, water can add a wonderful sense of serenity to any outdoor space, providing lovely movement and sound.
But there are other benefits to being around water, too. Recent research points to the positive mental health benefits it can provide, creating a meditative experience and a chance to escape the over-stimulated state of modern-day life, in favour of a moment of calm.
There are lots of ways to include water in the garden and of course it’s also one of the best ways to encourage wildlife. Almost any body of water, whatever its size, will have some value to wildlife, even if only as a drinking place for birds, while a well-designed and maintained pond can be a haven for all sorts of birds, insects and animals.
