Everyone comes to bonsai for different reasons: some enjoy it as a creative hobby, others love the social side through clubs or TikTok lives, and many find real mindfulness and calm through caring for their trees. Bonsai is also a brilliant activity for people with mobility challenges or disabilities, offering a gentle and rewarding way to stay connected with nature. However, we know we might be a little biased. So we asked some of our customers to write about why they love bonsai trees. Keep reading to discover Cat’s bonsai journey, and why bonsai are so important to her.
Note from Olea at Bonsai Direct: Cat has written this article herself and supplied all the images to accompany this post. We are extremely grateful to Cat for taking the time to share her ‘bonsai journey’ as it celebrates not only the benefit of growing these beautiful little trees but how it supports personal development. Happy pruning to you all!
First Discovering Bonsai
I first discovered bonsai in my early twenties, when I was drawn to the beauty and calm of these miniature trees. I jumped in enthusiastically but without any real knowledge, buying whatever caught my eye. Unsurprisingly, the trees weren’t suited to my lifestyle or environment, and I didn’t know enough to give them what they needed. Those early attempts didn’t go well, and for a while, I stepped back from the hobby.
About ten years ago, I decided to try again — this time with more intention. I bought a ficus bonsai from a specialist nursery, and the experience changed everything for me. The seller didn’t just hand me a tree; they shared their knowledge, their passion, and practical advice that actually made sense. With that support, I realised I could keep a bonsai alive. More importantly, I rediscovered how much joy these trees brought me.
The Importance of Bonsai
Since then, bonsai has become a meaningful part of my daily life. There’s something incredibly grounding about shaping a tree, watching it respond, and seeing tiny changes over time. For me, tending to bonsai creates a calm space — a mindful pause in a world that rarely slows down. It has helped me through difficult moments with my mental health, and I’ve seen how the hobby also supports people dealing with physical challenges. It offers a sense of focus, distraction, and achievement when things feel overwhelming.
A Sense of Community and a Growing Hobby
Even though I don’t go to in-person clubs, I’ve found a wonderful sense of community online. Discovering Bonsai Direct introduced me to passionate experts and other enthusiasts who share the same love for these little trees. Together we’ve built a supportive circle where we swap tips, celebrate progress, and help each other grow — both as hobbyists and as people.
Over the years, my collection has expanded to include Chinese elm, tea tree, pepper bonsai and more. But the ficus will always be special. Its glossy leaves remind me where my real journey began — with better guidance, a bit more patience, and a deeper understanding of what these trees can bring into a person’s life.
Bonsai journey 2.0 isn’t just about plants. It’s about reconnecting with something that brings peace, focus, and a sense of community. And I’m grateful I found my way back to it.
About Cat’s Bonsai
Cat now has many different bonsai tree varieties. The Ficus is a wonderful beginner’s bonsai that grows incredible aerial roots. The Chinese Elm and Juniper are favourites in the bonsai world, and are also great for beginners. Furthermore, Cat also loves the Mediterranean bonsai, including Olives, Pomegranates, Lemons, and Oranges.
A big ‘Thank You’ to Cat for writing about her bonsai experience, letting us use her images, and of course for all of her support. If you have a bonsai journey that you would like to share, please message us in the comments. Any comments would be welcome as it’s lovely to hear from other bonsai growers about their experience and would love to know if you have enjoyed reading about Cat’s bonsai journey. We enjoy reading all your comments and they support our website. Positive interaction with our website helps us to grow – quite literally!!
M Mann –
It’s amazing how Bonsai trees can be so calming and meditative. I love how they not only help with mindfulness but also serve as great conversation starters when shared with friends or family.