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A beautiful backyard with flowers

The Healing Power of Nature: How to Create a Relaxing, Bird-Friendly Backyard

Written by: Olivia Mooring

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Time to read 7 min

Spending time outside isn’t just about fresh air —it’s one of the most effective ways to improve mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Whether you’re listening to the sound of wind chimes, tending to your garden, or watching birds visit a feeder, nature has a measurable impact on health and can transform your outdoor space into a bold relaxing backyard.

Wind Chimes for Sound Therapy 🎶 – The rhythmic tones of wind chimes have a calming effect on the nervous system, much like ocean waves or rustling leaves.

  • Birdhouses & Feeders to Connect with Wildlife 🐦 – Watching and listening to birds reduces stress, increases happiness, and brings life to your outdoor space.
  • Gardening for Mindfulness & Health 🌿 – Tending to plants lowers cortisol (the stress hormone), boosts immunity, and promotes relaxation.
  • Cozy Outdoor Spaces for Comfort ☕ – Creating a restorative seating area with blankets, natural décor, and warm accents makes it easy to enjoy time outside.

Why Being Outside is Good for You: The Science Behind It

Researchers have found that spending time outdoors can:

  • Lower stress – A 2019 study in Frontiers in Psychology found that just 20 minutes in nature significantly reduces cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone.
  • Improve focus & creativity – A PLOS ONE study found that spending time in green spaces increases problem-solving skills by 50%.
  • Lower blood pressure – A 2018 study in Environmental Research showed that people who spent time in forests had significantly lower heart rates and blood pressure compared to those in urban areas.
  • Boost immunity – Trees release phytoncides , natural compounds that, when inhaled, increase disease-fighting natural killer (NK) cells.
  • Increase happiness – A UK study found that people who spend at least two hours a week in nature report higher well-being and life satisfaction.

Nature isn’t just a place—it’s medicine. And the best part? You don’t have to hike miles into the wilderness to get these benefits. You can build a restorative, stress-free outdoor space right in your backyard. 

A backyard oasis

How to Create a Healing & Relaxing Backyard Retreat

Leaves

1. Wind Chimes: Sound Therapy in Your Garden

Sound is one of the most powerful sensory experiences in nature. The rhythmic tones of wind chimes can calm the nervous system, much like listening to ocean waves or rustling leaves. Their gentle melodies create a sense of peace and relaxation, making them a perfect addition to any relaxing backyard retreat.


🎵 Best Wind Chimes for Relaxation:
  •  Mystic Spiral Confetti Chime  – Its gentle tones create a meditative atmosphere, helping to lower stress levels.
  •  Healing Chime - Silver  – Designed to promote healing and balance , this chime produces soothing, high-quality tones that encourage mindfulness.
  •  Butterfly’s Farewell Chime  – A Pentatonic-tuned chime that mimics the harmonious sounds of nature , enhancing relaxation.

Did You Know?

Studies show that listening to calming sounds—like wind chimes—helps reduce anxiety by lowering heart rate variability , supporting a more relaxed and balanced state of mind.

A wind chime in a floral backyard

2. Birdhouses & Feeders: Connect with Wildlife for Mental Health

Birdwatching isn’t just a hobby—it’s a proven way to reduce stress and increase feelings of happiness . A 2017 study published in BioScience found that people who regularly watch birds experience lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress.


🏡 Best Birdhouses & Feeders to Bring Nature to You:
  •  Small Bird Nester  – A cozy, eco-friendly nesting spot designed to provide warmth and shelter for small birds , encouraging them to stay and thrive in your yard.
  •  Teardrop Birdhouse  – A sustainable, handcrafted birdhouse that provides a safe shelter for birds while enhancing your backyard’s ecosystem.
  •  Hummingbird Cottage Feeder  – A beautifully designed feeder tailored to attract hummingbirds , allowing you to enjoy their graceful, energetic presence up close.

Did You Know?

Birdsong therapy is real —research shows that listening to birds for just 6 minutes can significantly improve mental well-being , lowering stress and promoting relaxation.


A bird in a bird nester house

 Buy All Three Nesters & Get the Small-Bird Roost Nest for FREE! 


Create a relaxing backyard retreat with these beautiful Artisan nesters are hand-woven and hand-stitched onto a metal frame providing small backyard birds with essential protection against weather and a safe place to nest. May be hung or secured into bushes or shrubs with the integrated fixing wire on the back. These are Fair Trade products, great for the birds and for the women in Bangladesh who make these from seagrass and recycled saris. Colors may vary.


🌿 The Science Behind Gardening’s Health Benefits: 

  • Lowers stress – A Journal of Health Psychology study found that 30 minutes of gardening reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) more effectively than reading indoors.
  • Boosts immunity – Exposure to soil stimulates beneficial microbes, strengthening the immune system and promoting gut health.
  • Encourages mindfulness – Gardening requires focus and presence, making it a natural form of meditation that helps improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Leaves

3. Gardening: The Ultimate Natural Therapy

Gardening isn’t just about growing plants—it’s a proven way to reduce stress, boost immunity, and promote mindfulness. Whether you’re digging in the dirt, pruning flowers, or harvesting vegetables, the simple act of gardening can enhance both mental and physical well-being.


🌱 Must-Have Garden Tools for a Low-Stress Experience:
  •  Japanese Gardening Ultimate Tool  – A versatile, all-in-one tool for digging, cutting, and planting, reducing the need for multiple tools.
  •  Modern Style Watering Can  – A sleek, functional watering can that makes hydrating your plants easy while adding a touch of style to your gardening routine.
  •  Harvest & Gathering Bag  – A lightweight, durable bag that makes collecting fresh herbs, flowers, and produce effortless.

Did You Know?

Gardening lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke by 30%, according to the British Journal of Sports Medicine, making it one of the best low-impact activities for long-term health.


A woman and her grandchild gardening

4. Create a Cozy & Restorative Outdoor Space

Spending just 15-30 minutes outside each day can boost Vitamin D, regulate mood, and improve sleep cycles . But to truly enjoy your time outdoors, having a comfortable and inviting space makes all the difference.


🏕️ Best Outdoor Essentials for Comfort & Relaxation:
  • Bolga Basket  – A beautifully handwoven storage basket , perfect for keeping outdoor blankets, picnic essentials, or gardening tools within reach.
  • Wool Outdoor/Picnic Blankets - ideal for stargazing, chilly evenings, or cozying up outside in your relaxing backyard retreat.
  •  Hand-Carved Wooden Bear  – A charming, rustic accent piece that brings character and warmth to your outdoor retreat.

Did You Know?

Exposure to natural light in the morning helps reset the body’s circadian rhythm , leading to better sleep and improved focus .

A family having a backyard picnic

5. Final Step: Make the Most of Your Time Outside

The health benefits of nature are undeniable. Lower stress, stronger immunity, better focus, and improved mood—all from spending time outdoors.

The key? Building an outdoor space that invites you to stay. With the right wind chimes, birdhouses, garden tools, and comfortable seating , you can create a space that supports both relaxation and well-being.


Remember: The best way to experience the benefits of nature is to make time for it every day —even if it’s just sitting outside for a few minutes, watching the birds, and enjoying the breeze.


Start your nature-inspired transformation today! Explore our wind chimes, birdhouses, and garden essentials here.

Leaves

1. How can I make my backyard more relaxing?

To create a relaxing backyard , focus on sensory elements like sound, scent, and comfort. Wind chimes provide soothing background tones, birdhouses attract wildlife, and cozy outdoor seating makes the space inviting. Incorporating greenery and natural materials also enhances the peaceful ambiance.


2. What are the best wind chimes for a calming atmosphere?

The best wind chimes for relaxation are those with soft, harmonic tones . Some top choices include:


3. How does birdwatching improve mental health?

Research shows that watching and listening to birds can significantly reduce stress and anxiety . A 2017 study published in BioScience found that people who regularly observe birds experience lower levels of depression and improved emotional well-being . Setting up birdhouses and feeders encourages birds to visit your backyard, providing both visual and auditory relaxation.


4. What are the easiest plants to grow for a peaceful backyard?

If you're new to gardening, choose low-maintenance plants that enhance relaxation, such as:

  • Lavender – Known for its calming scent and mosquito-repelling properties.
  • Ferns & Hostas – Lush greenery that thrives in shaded areas.
  • Butterfly Bush & Coneflowers – Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds for added beauty.

5. How can I enjoy my backyard year-round?

To make your backyard inviting in all seasons , consider adding:

  • A cozy seating area with outdoor blankets like the  Wool Outdoor/Picnic Blanket  .
  • Decorative elements like the  Hand-Carved Wooden Bear  for year-round charm.
  • Wind chimes and bird feeders to keep nature’s presence alive, no matter the season.
The author: Olivia Mooring

The author: Olivia Mooring

Olivia is the Marketing Manager at Best Brushes, where she combines her expertise in digital marketing with a deep appreciation for nature and sustainable living. With years of experience in content strategy and brand growth, she is passionate about helping people create inviting, eco-friendly outdoor spaces. When she’s not crafting compelling campaigns, she enjoys horseback riding, fly fishing, and exploring the great outdoors. She believes in the importance of preserving nature’s beauty and works to inspire others to protect and appreciate the environment in their everyday lives.

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