Zen Rock Garden

• A Zen rock garden is composed of one or two large rocks and gravel placed within a wooden boxlike border. The large rocks represent the mountains, and the raked gravel represents still water.
  
  

Types

• Any type of gravel can be used for a Zen rock garden. The only recommendation is for the gravel to be smooth and shiny, similar to river rocks.
  
  

Color

• Traditional colors for gravel found in a Zen rock garden are white, beige or gray. The colors should be neutral, relaxing and pleasing.
  
  

Size

• The gravel should be no larger than pebbles. Some Zen gardens include sand made from granite instead of gravel.
  
  

Use

• Whether the Zen garden is large or small, its purpose is to inspire relaxation as the gravel is raked into new patterns. The act of reorganizing the landscape is meant to help relieve tension.