You probably already know that your physical environment plays a large role in health—cleanliness contributes to physical health, for instance. And did you know that walls painted green can benefit emotional health? Similarly, several recent studies have confirmed that improving the amount and quality of natural spaces you are exposed to can go a long way towards improving your health.
A Well-Maintained Lawn Can Improve Your Physical Health
Healthy grass, especially, is vital for overall physical health. Grass traps dust and pollutants, making improving our air quality. In addition, green plants use up carbon dioxide and produce oxygen in return. A 50’x50’ lawn alone will produce enough oxygen for a family of 4 just from the grass.
In addition, green plants have a cooling effect. You probably have felt the difference that shady trees make, may have even felt it in reduced energy bills. But did you know that grass itself can be 31 degrees cooler than asphalt in the same place? Increasing the amount of grass and flowers in your landscaping can decrease the risk of heat-related illnesses.
This supposes that your grass is healthy, however. A patchy, diseased lawn won’t provide the same benefits. EnJay’s knowledgeable techs can help determine the best course of action to improve the health of your lawn, and by extension, your health as well! Dethatching, fertilizing, mowing and irrigation are all essential to maintaining a lush, green lawn that will contribute to your vitality and well-being. Contact Us if your grass could use a quick shot of strength.
 Is your grass more dead than alive? EnJay’s professional techs can turn it into a green, peaceful sanctuary once more.
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Well-Organized Green Spaces Can Improve Your Mental Health
In addition to physical benefits, your mental health is also affected by your surroundings. According to a study from the University of Michigan, walking through a well-tended green space has been shown to increase memory and attention—in fact, information from Harvard Health Publications suggests that children with ADHD function better after being outdoors.
In addition, researchers from Aarhus University in Denmark found that children who grew up with the fewest local parks or green spaces “had up to a 55 percent higher risk of developing a psychiatric disorder.”
Making sure your lawn and property exterior is well-landscaped and clear of debris can help with the sensory overload that many people feel when experiencing a cluttered space. Clearing up debris in your yard, repairing broken concrete, or replacing buckling retaining walls will help bring about mental peace and clarity.
Is your lawn in need of a spring cleanup? Call EnJay to get on our schedule now and beat the rush! (952)206-5296 (LAWN)
Communal Access to Nature Can Improve Emotional Health
Feeling stressed lately? Apparently, merely looking at a green landscape reduces mental fatigue, decreases stress and lowers blood pressure. Rachael Kaplan, Ph.D., determined in her research that workers who could view nature from their desks had much better job and life satisfaction, and better health. This explains the recent findings that commercial office buildings with high-quality landscaping net 7% higher rental rates than those without.
But perhaps the best way that our exterior landscaping can benefit emotional health is through the forging of social bonds. Pathways through flower gardens and furnished patios in commercial properties encourage employees to gather and build a rapport. And what better chance to build a friendship with your neighbor or connect with your kids than around a beautiful stone firepit or paver patio outdoor entertainment area?
Protect Your Health!
Creating and maintaining a nourishing exterior landscape has many benefits. But like anything else, the process can carry risk. Here are a few reminders:
- Thousands of children suffer severe lawn mower injuries every year. Keep the lawn mower a kid-free zone. Wear shoes and protective eyewear, and pick up anything in the lawn that can be thrown by the blades. Always make sure the mower is completely off before trying to clean the blades or clear a clog.
- Landscaping and lawn care is hot, sweaty work. In fact, according to the CDC more than 600 people die from heatstroke every year. To avoid heat-related illness, try to work in the morning when the sun is cooler. Wear light-colored, breathable clothing. Make sure to take frequent breaks in the shade and drink plenty of water.
- Individuals with heart concerns should always consult a doctor before doing any type of strenuous activity, including yard work.
- Mowing the lawn, trimming, raking and spring cleanup can all stir up pollen that can aggravate allergies. Grass pollen, in particular, accounts for a third of all allergy symptoms in the USA. Combat seasonal allergies by wearing a dust mask while mowing. Consider mowing in the evening, as most pollen is released in the morning, and use a mower with a bag so the trimmings don’t stay on the lawn. The best course of action may be re-sodding your lawn with a no-pollen grass. A great choice for the climate here in Minnesota is buffalograss “609”.
Being so close to the Twin Cities, we have access to some of the highest quality healthcare facilities in the nation. But it is our hope that you rarely need to use them. Instead of taking on the hassle and risk of landscaping and lawn care, let the pros at EnJay do the work while you reap the healthy rewards! Call today for a free quote: (952)206-5296 (LAWN)
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