The Zen of Hedge Trimming: Finding Relaxation in Gardening
Some people believe that gardening is nothing more than a chore you must do when you’d prefer to be doing anything but! However, gardening tasks like hedge trimming can actually be relaxing. In fact, studies show that gardening can reduce acute stress and promote a positive mood.
If you aren’t yet sure how to transform gardening activities from a mundane chore into a meditative activity, we’ve got a few tips to get you started:
Step 1: Prepare Mindfully
Just as you would rifle around in your pantry for everything you need to bake biscuits, you need to prepare for gardening. Gather all the tools you’ll need to trim the hedges, like a pair of sharp and well-maintained hedge trimmers. The higher the quality of the tools, the more stress-free your hedge trimming experience can be.
Of equal importance in the preparation stage is wearing the right clothing. Wear clothing you’re comfortable in that feels gentle against your skin. However, ensure you also wear appropriate safety gear. Remember, you’re dealing with scratchy plants and sharp tools! Wear long sleeves and pants, covered-in shoes with grip and support, and heavy-duty gloves.
Step 2: Notice Nature
Your attention is rightfully on the hedges you’re about to start trimming, but don’t forget to take a moment to notice nature around them. Feel the sun’s warmth on your skin and the gentle breeze on your face. Listen to the birds chirping in the trees. Take time to notice all the colours and textures in your environment, as well, such as the depth of green on the hedge or the array of bright colours in your perennials.
As you observe your surroundings, take deep breaths. Inhale all the positivity in your environment and exhale any tension or stress you’ve been feeling. While it might sound silly to some, mindfulness practice has many proven benefits. Recent studies have discovered its helpfulness for managing anxiety, pain, depression, and stress. Some people even experience relief from withdrawal symptoms related to opioids, alcohol, and nicotine.
Step 3: Focus On Each Part of the Task
If hedge trimming isn’t your favourite pastime, it’s only natural to want to rush through it and get it done so you can go back to doing the activities you love. However, aside from rushing not being ideal from a safety perspective, it also doesn’t allow for the most relaxing experience.
You might be able to feel more relaxed and calm while hedge trimming by focusing on one trim at a time. Pay attention to the details of the branches you’re cutting and how the trimmers move. While challenging for meditation beginners, try to also be present. This means focusing your attention on hedge trimming rather than letting your mind wander to other thoughts.
Step 4: Get Creative
You don’t have to create a straight, perfectly cut hedge. It’s your hedge, so why not get creative? Express your creativity by trying different trimming techniques and shapes. You can even work with the hedge’s natural flow to let its own unique character shine through.
Step 5: Appreciate Your Efforts
Your hedge trimming might not be perfect, but take a moment to appreciate your efforts. Step back from the hedge and take notice of the transformation from an unruly hedge to one that has been beautifully trimmed to encourage new, healthy growth.
If you notice any imperfections, don’t tell yourself off for them! Instead, embrace the imperfections of nature and how you don’t always need to achieve total perfection.
Step 6: Close Your Hedge-Trimming Ritual
With your hedge now looking freshly trimmed, it’s time to perform your hedge trimming ‘closing ritual’. This can consist of removing any safety equipment, cleaning your tools, and ensuring they’re in excellent condition for the next time you need to use them. This final step can spell the end of your gardening task for the day.
If you’re not sure how to maintain your hedge trimmers, we’ve included some helpful tips below:
Clean away dirt and debris with a soft cloth
Oil the blades before and after each use
Inspect them for damage or wear, such as damaged blades or loose screws
Replace damaged parts
Tighten loose parts
Sharpen the blades using a file or sharpening stone
Check air filters and spark plugs on gas-powered trimmers
Store them in a clean and dry environment
Alternatively, Outsource Your Hedge Trimming
Is hedge trimming not really for you? That’s okay, too. There are other ways to rest and relax, like reading, cooking, and walking. If you’d prefer not to tackle your hedges on your own out of a lack of time, experience, or passion, reach out to lawn care experts for help. You can then enjoy a beautiful-looking hedge that has been meticulously maintained by experts.