Zen Gardens?

Question

we have a project to do and we had to create a zen garden using a shoebox, sand, and rocks. so why were the Zen Gardens so peaceful?

Answer 1

It's all in what you perceive while in the zen garden.

Below is an excellent article
Zen Garden's Calming Effect Due to Subliminal Image?
Visual-imaging scientists in Japan say they've figured out what it is about the garden that engenders this serenity. The secret: The more than 500-year-old garden is harboring a subliminal message in the form of a tree.
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2002/09/0925_020925_zengarden.html