A zen garden, also known as a Japanese rock garden, is a peaceful outdoor space designed for meditation and reflection. It typically features carefully arranged rocks, gravel, and sand, which represent water and land. The simplicity of the garden encourages mindfulness, allowing visitors to connect with nature and find inner calm. In a zen garden, the act of raking the gravel into patterns symbolizes waves or ripples, promoting a sense of tranquility. These gardens often include elements like boulders, moss, and small plants to enhance the serene atmosphere. Overall, a zen garden serves as a beautiful reminder of the harmony between nature and the human spirit.