When you think of your backyard do you feel a sense of calm and serenity? Or does it make you feel anxious? Help improve your outdoor space by implementing some of these ways to make your backyard more relaxing and calming.
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List of Backyard Relaxation Ideas
What does a relaxing backyard mean to you?
Ask 10 different people this question and you’ll get 10 different answers.
People’s idea of a relaxing backyard varies greatly. For instance, some may see a pool as relaxing, but others may see it as a time suck and money pit.
For me, a low maintenance backyard that doesn’t take hours of upkeep sounds pretty darn relaxing.
For you, well, hopefully something on this list will appeal to you.
1) Set up a nice Seating Area
Creating a cozy seating area in your backyard can make it way more inviting. Having a designated spot to relax is important.
Choose seating that’s comfortable and durable enough to withstand the outdoor conditions at your home. Adding cushions and shade can enhance the comfort and make your seating area even more inviting.
Once you have your sitting area set up, you can start adding accessories around it to make it even more relaxing.
2) Define your space and add privacy with a privacy screen
A freestanding privacy screen (with or without a planter box) can help define your seating space and provides a sense of seclusion.
It can help make you feel like you’re sitting in a cozy outdoor living room.
3) Get an umbrella or shade sail
Sweating in the direct sunlight likely isn’t on your list of relaxing activities.
So if you have an exposed backyard, you can put up an umbrella or a shade sail for some much-needed shade.
These can help lower the overall temperature in your patio or seating area by keeping the direct sun off the patio stones or furniture.
To see more backyard shade ideas, check out our article dedicated to this important backyard enjoyment.
4) String up some LED Patio Lights
Putting up some LED patio lights means the fun doesn’t have to stop when the sun goes down.
Setting up string lights around your outdoor seating area can help define the space, create a nice ambiance and throw some light so you can safely go in and out of your home.
The lights shown above are a popular brand with thousands of positive reviews.
5) Water Feature
Placing a small water fountain next to your seating area or even a table-top version can help bring the soothing sounds of nature right into your backyard.
The gentle trickling sound of water can drown out the noise of the outside world and provide a sense of calm.
But it’s important to consider maintenance and upkeep, as water features might require periodic cleaning and care to keep them looking their best.
(Maybe start with a small water feature that won’t take long to clean if required.)
6) Install a putting green
Do you love golf and want to improve your short game?
You could spend hours trying to grow and tend to the perfect grass for a putting green, or you could buy an artificial putting green like this one instead.
7) Potted Plants
Lush greenery can soften even the most industrial-looking backyard.
And if you buy tall plants with lots of foliage they have the added benefits of providing privacy, shade and beauty.
8) Install a Privacy Fence
Being under the watchful eye of a nosy neighbor isn’t the most relaxing experience.
But you can help create a backyard retreat by installing a privacy fence.
It helps define your space and will give you a sense of seclusion and escapism.
There are a variety of fencing options out there, and you can check out our article dedicated to privacy fence ideas for some inspiration.
9) Set up a Hammock
Imagine relaxing, reading a book or taking a nap in your own backyard hammock.
And if you don’t have trees to tie a hammock to, don’t worry, you can get a freestanding hammock like the one above and put it anywhere you want.
You can move it throughout the day to either stay in the shade or chase the sun.
10) Small Pond
Adding a small pond brings a touch of nature right to your backyard.
The trickle of the water fountain to circulate the water provides nice background white noise that can drown out the sounds of traffic or a bustling neighborhood.
And natural aquatic plants can add some greenery to your backyard.
A small pond can attract wildlife for backyard viewing. However, ponds require maintenance, and proper filtration and water circulation are essential to keep the pond healthy and clear.
Plus, safety measures should be in place, especially if you have young children or pets.
You can get a waterproof liner then dig your own pond, you can get pre-formed pond shells that you can lower into the ground, or you can get some cool above ground pond options now too.
11) Vegetable Garden
Planting a vegetable garden in your backyard can be a therapeutic and rewarding experience.
Growing your own food can be a unique form of relaxation. It allows you to slow down, connect with nature, and enjoy the simple pleasure of watching plants thrive.
However, it’s essential to consider the time and effort required for maintaining a vegetable garden. Regular watering, weeding, and pest control are necessary to ensure a healthy crop.
If this just sounds like a lot of work to you, then gardening may not be relaxing for you.
But you won’t know until you try. Start small so you don’t get overwhelmed.
12) Outdoor Kitchen
Installing an outdoor kitchen is a great – yet expensive – way to make your backyard look amazing.
It can make outdoor mealtimes more enjoyable and relaxing.
However, if cooking isn’t really your thing, doing it outside in the elements likely won’t be very relaxing for you.
13) Hot Tub
A hot tub can provide a great escape right in your own backyard. It can help relieve tension and allow you to unwind after a long day.
They can be great for some quality alone time, and they make a fun place to hang out with friends and family.
But, like an outdoor kitchen, hot tubs aren’t cheap. It’s costly to buy a good one, and then there are the additional, ongoing energy costs to keep it up to temperature.
Plus, they require ongoing maintenance and upkeep. Regular cleaning and chemical balancing are essential to keep the water safe and enjoyable.
14) Swimming Pool
An above ground pool can be a great place to float and relax on a hot summer day.
I love putting on some tunes and floating in our above ground pool.
But there are maintenance, safety, and cost considerations associated with having a pool.
For some people these considerations outweigh benefits.
I hope these have ideas will help you create a more relaxing outdoor space for you to enjoy.
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Thank you.
Tim from LearnAlongWithMe.com
Tim worked in construction for a few years before going to university. Then he worked in a pharmacy for 10 years and now works as a full-time writer and online publisher. He has experience in several different, far-reaching lines of work.
“I sincerely hope you find the articles helpful and informative.”
Tim from LearnAlongWithMe.com
