THRIVE WITH THE FLOWERING EARTH

LIKE OUR GARDENS, we are ready to embrace the new season and bloom. The passing of the spring equinox means warmer, longer days and the gardening season has begun. Lawns can have their first cut, seedlings are ready to be planted out and pots and flower beds are coming into their own. Even if you are not a gardener, get out into nature and open your eyes and soul to new possibilities.

In Japan, the ancient custom of Hanami, or ‘flower viewing’, is still practised today. It has a sacred origin, when people offer food and drink to the gods and ask them to watch over the year’s harvest. It is also an important social ritual – people gather in parks and public gardens to immerse themselves in the wonder of the cherry blossoms and have fun. It is typical to take picnics and saké and sit under the trees with your friends and family.

The spectacular displays last for around 10 days and are symbolic of beauty and the fragile, transient nature of life. It is a remarkable exercise in appreciating the now.

Why not create your own version of Hanami or join the National Trust’s emulation, #Blossomwatch? Use the time to think about what you want the next six months to bring into your life. I hope my days will be filled with gardening adventures, new clients and friends. I hope to build deeper connections and foster a stronger appreciation of the good times. Everything we have learned over the past year points to the importance of having a solid support structure around you.

Spring is the most magical time. Let it wash over you and ignite your hopes and dreams. Tap into your creative energy. Fill your days with wonder and begin to bloom.

Find out more at pipergardens.co.uk