They’re not just for decoration. Nor are they designed to give the impression that you’ve got it all mastered and you’re now a “Zen god or goddess.”

What the heck are these boxes of sand all about?

I asked one of my executive clients about the pretty little one that he had perched on the corner of his massive desk. His response? “It was a gift. I don’t know what the heck I’m supposed to do with it!”

It’s funny how sometimes the simplest things can be overlooked. My client and I were a little unsure of how to proceed when confronted with one.

So I did my research. Turns out that these “adult sandboxes” have profound mental and physical health benefits. Harkening back to Japanese Buddhist culture, these small and full-scale gardens are used for stress-reduction and gaining clarity and wisdom.

According to Manita Bajaj, CEO of Sattva Life, Zen gardens use rocks and gravel or sand to recreate the essence of nature.

The swirling patterns give a complete look to a Zen garden. These lines are important as they have a calming effect on the mind.

They also inspire discipline and focus. Dare I say “mindfulness?”

They help you stop, meditate and focus on the present. It’s a tool or a sanctuary—take your pick. Regardless of how you refer to it, these little gardens work wonders.

Remember Mr. Miyagi’s bonsai trees in Karate Kid? Need I say more?

Zen gardens also help you develop a sense of creativity, discipline and appreciation of beauty. When it comes to cultivating a healthy career, you can’t master your destiny without creativity, discipline, focus and the ability to reduce stress as you pursue your path. Caring for a Zen garden may be a clever way to start training for a better and healthier you.

Kim Monaghan, PCC, RYT, CPBS is the owner of KBM Coaching & Consulting LLC, a boutique Human Resources Consulting and Career Coaching Firm serving a national clientele.