The answer to 'DIY aeration' is that core aeration is a highly recommended maintenance task for lawns, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic or compacted soil. Aerating your lawn helps to improve water, oxygen, and nutrient absorption by creating small holes or 'cores' in the soil. This can be done effectively with a manual or motorized core aerator tool.
Aeration is best performed in the fall when grass is actively growing, and should be done every 1-2 years depending on your lawn's needs. Be sure to mark any sprinkler heads or other underground utilities before aerating to avoid damage. If you have a large lawn or are unsure about the process, it's best to hire a professional landscaping service to handle the aeration for you.