Grass Clears Your Mind
Since I was a kid, I have always enjoyed mowing the lawn since it allowed me to clear my mind of clutter and focus it on creative and solution thoughts. In the winter, I shovel snow for the same effect although Missouri does not have the snowfall my home state of North Dakota has.
I have been on the road and taking care of my bride the last couple weeks so the yard started to look a bit ragged. I have tried to mow but the weather has not cooperated with my schedule so the yard has just grown a little higher each day.
Today, my thirteen (13) year old Jack Russell came in the house with his tummy soaked so I couldn't wait another day to mow unless I wanted to take Buddy to the vet for a reaction to ragweed. So... I watched the dew evaporate with anticipation.
After lunch, I cleaned the air filter, checked the oil, verified the blade was tight and filled the tank so I could mow the front yard. I fired up the mower and within twenty (20) feet, my mind was clear of clutter and I was in think mode.
I completed the front yard and took a quick break before inspecting and cleaning the backyard. This is a mandatory step since the dogs mole hunt and I do not want a broken ankle. I have been unable to train the fur babies to clean up messes in the back yard so I must walk the yard with a scoop and bag.
Once more, I go through my mental lawnmower startup checklist and start mowing the fenced in fur baby paradise. Since I was already warmed up from the front yard, it took me less than twenty (20) feet to transition to think mode.
We all need a place to let the brain drain the negative and recharge with positive thoughts. I am blessed to have a number of activities that allow me to achieve this if I take the time to let it happen.
How do you let your brain drain the negative and recharge with positive thoughts?
If you thought the title of this blog was deceptive, my apologies but a catchy title draws an audience.
Wishing you a safe, healthy and successful day.
Isn't It Great Being Fifty Plus Going On Fifteen
Jay Patterson
Recent Comments
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Ha ha ha...My first thought at your title was ..."Was it about growing, mowing, or smoking it!" LMBO!! :D
Yeah..really liked this one as I like to veg and process sometimes too.
I jump into my creative side which never disappoints me to bring the positive river gush of new ideas multiplying like rabbits on the landscape. Positive focus brings more of the same...negative brings negative. I choose the former.
Nothing like nature to turn you around, hey Jay? And ohhh the smell of freshly cut grass... a breath of fresh air!! Now where is that wild mint??
Hope the grass didn't cake on your tires! :)
~E
50 plus going on 15 ... what a great analogy. There are lot of us about. Thank you for sharing this and I get it, as I also use the garden clearing to un clutter the mind. I also use mine and Ralph's twice daily walks for quality thinking time. Ralph is my toy poodle. He has a website dedicated to him.
With Grace and Gratitude
Karen
Karen. I find it settling to do simple things and our fur babies just make it more special. Thanks for sharing. Jay
Hi Jay, I get that effect being outside anywhere I can have a bit of quite. As long as I am outside whether it is in the sun or rain, wind or snow and whether I am by a lake, the ocean or in thick forest I feel better. I crave being outside and forests are particularly happy for me, as are streams.
I grew up in the mountains here in Alaska, right on a lake and I really miss it! Gardening also has that effect you are talking about. We had to move when we bought this 4-plex 6 months ago and I miss having a garden! We are planting a few roses and peonies at least.
I so understand. After my first tour in the navy, I tried to transfer to the army for many of the reasons you indicate but I was considered untrainable for the army due to my navy length of service.
Until I moved to Missouri, I had to return to North Dakota to be in the open spaces and recharge but I am comfortable here.
Thanks for your response and sharing. Jay
You wouldn't think one could feel confined living in Alaska! When you are in the largest city in the state however you can!
We have a high crime rate too so if you go way out it is ok and you only have to worry about bears and moose but if you are in a city park you have to worry about crime too!
I am more used to the bears and moose!
I like going outside and walking barefoot in the grass. It helps me connect to nature in a smaller way! Great post :)
Yes, the subtle feeling of grass between your toes. Like sand but more personal. Thanks, Jay
Yes! Very catchy title. I could not agree more with your correlation of the lawn mower and the brain. I share the very same sentiment as I experience this myself whenever I do my yard work.
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nice post
Thanks for taking the time to read. Have a great day. Jay