Why Skipping the Lawnmower Could Boost Your Health and Happiness
Sarah Johnson
June 20, 2025
Brief
Ditching the lawnmower for a wild yard may boost health, reduce injuries, and promote mindfulness, experts say.
The "Let It Bloom June" movement, building on the buzz of "No Mow May," is gaining traction as homeowners trade their lawnmowers for wild, untamed yards. Originally championed to boost pollinators and biodiversity, this trend might also be a surprising win for your health, experts say.
Dr. Michael Policastro, an emergency physician in Cincinnati, warns that lawn care isn’t as innocent as it seems. Mowing, raking, and digging can lead to muscle strains, back pain, and joint injuries. The repetitive motions and heavy lifting involved can wear down the body over time, while lawnmower vibrations may quietly stress your lower back. Poor posture? That’s a fast track to aching knees and wrists.
Then there’s the chemical side of things. Pesticides and herbicides can drift into the air, sneaking harmful toxins into your lungs. Skipping the mower could mean fewer encounters with these health hazards, Policastro notes.
But it’s not just about dodging physical strain. A wild lawn can be a balm for the mind. Mental health experts like Greg Adelstein, a counselor in Hollywood, Florida, say natural, unmanicured spaces foster mindfulness and calm. Watching bees dance around clover or hearing birdsong can ground you, boosting self-esteem and a sense of purpose.
Elena Saldamando, a clinical social worker in Avalon Park, Florida, adds that natural lawns can spark community connection. Shared gardening or conservation efforts can combat loneliness, turning your yard into a social hub. Plus, studies suggest that exposure to nature might even dull chronic pain, making a wild yard a daily dose of therapy.
Still, lawn care isn’t all bad—if done right. Gardening can lower cortisol levels, promoting calm, Saldamando says. To stay safe, Policastro advises taking breaks, using ergonomic tools, and wearing a mask when handling chemicals. Proper posture and a quick stretch beforehand can keep injuries at bay.
So, maybe it’s time to let your lawn run wild. Your body—and your mind—might just thank you.
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Editor's Comments
Looks like the lawnmower’s getting a timeout! Who knew letting your yard go full jungle could save your back and make you zen? Just don’t tell the neighbors it’s for ‘biodiversity’ when they complain—say it’s doctor’s orders. And here’s a joke: Why did the grass join ‘Let It Bloom June’? It was tired of getting cut down in its prime!
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