Pick a theme for your zen garden that speaks to your heart, mind, and soul. The goal is simplicity, so keep that in mind while crafting your garden.

Fill your container about halfway with sand (I buy mine on Amazon). Add smooth stones or other items, but remember that zen gardens are not supposed to be cluttered. Less is more.

Rake the sand with a plastic fork, pen, or another object that will create the designs you're looking for. Make soft ripples to represent calming thoughts of the ocean.

For me, creating zen gardens is very relaxing and a great way to ease into meditation.