In a world of fast notifications, endless tabs, and to-do lists that never end, peace can feel like a luxury. But for me, calm came in the most unexpected way — inside a glass jar.
I never imagined that building a terrarium — something I thought was just a pretty desk accessory — would teach me a lesson in mindfulness, patience, and joy. But that’s exactly what happened. And today, I want to share how this little ecosystem changed my space — and my mindset.
The First Terrarium: More Than a Project
I picked up a closed terrarium from PALS GREEN at a weekend pop-up in Ajman. It was beautifully layered — charcoal, soil, moss, a small fern, and a delicate succulent. I didn’t know anything about plants, but the person at the stall told me, “It waters itself.”
That little phrase stuck with me.
Back home, I placed it by the window, and for the first few days, I kept checking in — does it need water? Is it too humid? But soon, I noticed something odd: it was thriving. With no intervention. Just a balance of elements working in harmony.
A Glass Garden in a Fast World
Watching it became a daily ritual. I’d sip my tea and glance over at the glass dome of green. And slowly, something in me shifted. I began:
- Turning off my phone for short breaks
- Letting go of perfection in small tasks
- Noticing details — textures, light, stillness
That tiny terrarium became a mirror — reminding me that I, too, could thrive with less chaos, more care, and just enough light.
Why Terrariums Aren’t Just Décor
Terrariums have exploded in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. They’re beautiful. But beyond their aesthetic value, they offer something deeper:
- Mindful focus – Building or observing one encourages you to slow down.
- Responsibility without pressure – Minimal care, yet deeply rewarding.
- Connection to nature – Even in urban apartments or workspaces.
- Symbol of sustainability – They remind us of how delicate ecosystems work best when left undisturbed.
My Second One Was a Gift… Then a Third
After a few months, I gifted one to a friend going through burnout. “It’s low maintenance — like the opposite of your job,” I joked. She laughed and later told me it became the only green thing in her flat.
Now, I have three. And I’ve signed up for a PALS GREEN mini-workshop to make one from scratch — because something about placing each layer by hand feels… healing.
Final Thoughts: A Small Step Toward a Slower Life
We often think we need big changes to feel better. But sometimes, the answer is smaller than you think. It might be growing quietly, under a cork lid, on your shelf.
🔗 Ready to try it yourself?
Explore handcrafted terrariums, DIY kits, and workshops at www.palsgreen.me