#United States #mental health #Toronto #OtO Inc #backyard therapy

The Healing Power of Your Backyard: A New Study Unveils Surprising Mental Health Benefits

A recent nationwide survey has shed light on the often-overlooked mental health benefits of spending time in one's backyard. Conducted by Pollfish and commissioned by OtO Inc., the survey included 500 U.S. adults who regularly maintain their outdoor spaces. The findings are both enlightening and encouraging, indicating that simply tending to gardens, lawns, and patio plants can have profound psychological benefits.

Key Findings of the Survey

The results revealed several key insights into how backyard spaces impact mental well-being:

• - Calm in the Wilderness: An impressive 71% of respondents indicated that their yard provides a sense of calm during stressful times.
• - Mood Enhancement: 62% reported feeling happier when spending time surrounded by their plants.
• - Anxiety Management: 58% stated that caring for their lawn or garden helps in managing their anxiety levels.
• - A Sense of Purpose: A significant 67% of participants felt that their greenery gave them a profound sense of purpose in life.

What's particularly noteworthy is that those aged 35-44 expressed the strongest positive sentiments, indicating that mid-career adults may reap the most significant mental health benefits from time spent outdoors.

Insights from Leadership

Ali Sabti, CEO of OtO Inc., commented on the findings, emphasizing the importance of outdoor spaces in today’s stressful world: "At a time when many are seeking relief from stress and anxiety, our research confirms what many homeowners feel intuitively—the simple act of spending time outdoors can make a real difference. We are proud to help families reclaim their yards as spaces for healing, connection, and joy."

Recurring Themes in Survey Responses

The survey uncovered five recurring themes that elucidate why backyards are therapeutic:
1. Gardening as Therapy: For many, nurturing plants and flowers serves as a go-to coping mechanism. The act of growing and tending to living things offers a unique form of solace.
2. Private Wellness Retreat: During trying times—be it personal trauma, grief, or burnout—the backyard often becomes the first refuge, providing peace and clarity.
3. Nature’s Micro-Moments: Sounds of birdsong, the feel of sunlight on skin, the aroma of flowers, and the scent of freshly cut grass create small yet impactful moments that allow for tranquility and calm.
4. Joy Amplified by Pets: For pet owners, playing with a furry friend in the backyard, be it through fetch or simple companionship, significantly boosts overall happiness.
5. A Hub for Connection: Yards serve not just as personal retreats but also as social spaces—a venue for BBQs, family gatherings, and heartfelt conversations that strengthen relationships.

About OtO Inc.

Founded in Toronto in 2019, OtO Inc. has revolutionized yard care for modern homeowners with its flagship product, the OtO Smart Sprinkler. This innovative device not only automates watering but does so with impressive precision. After being acquired by Rain Bird Corporation in 2025, OtO continues to thrive, helping thousands of customers across North America enjoy their outdoor spaces with ease. The brand has garnered industry accolades, including the CES Best of Innovation Award and recognition in TIME's Best Inventions. OtO is dedicated to blending effortless outdoor living with eco-friendly practices through technology.

In conclusion, the recent study highlights the profound impact that our outdoor spaces—especially our backyards—can have on our mental health and well-being. By embracing the simplicity of nature, we can reclaim our peace of mind and foster a deeper connection to our surroundings, ourselves, and our loved ones.

For more information, visit OtO Lawn.