Have you ever found yourself hugging or cuddling a pet during a particularly difficult time? If so, you’re not the only one! Most pet owners find their pets’ presence comforting. An article on emotional support by SymptomFind outlines that animals provide a sense of comfort for people with anxiety or depression. And here’s some even better news: animals can help you with your physical health as well!
So, let’s look at how animals can be beneficial for both mental and physical health (as if you needed any more reasons to hug your dog or cat).
How can pets help with my mental health?
Studies on NCBI show that a dogs’ presence can reduce cortisol levels, the hormone that plays a huge role in stress. Petting a purring cat or a smiling pup is an immediate stress reliever. Also, taking time out of your day to tend to your pets can give you a much-needed= break from work, especially if you’re in a WFH situation.
Having a pet means that you’re never truly alone, a sentiment that has proven more important than ever during lockdowns when we find ourselves isolated from loved ones. Pets also help take your mind off negative thoughts associated with isolation and other situations that have arisen during the pandemic. According to studies, older people who walk their dogs on a regular basis experience fewer symptoms of loneliness compared to those who don’t have pets.
Can pets help with my physical health, too?
Of course! The most obvious way is by walking your dog. Not only do you get a few extra steps in during dog walks, but you also get to enjoy nature. In our previous post on ‘Nature’s Sophistication is Omniscient in its Simplicity’ we’re reminded that nature surrounds us and grounds us, making sure we remember to enjoy the here and now. It’s like dogs want to make sure we get our daily dose of nature and exercise every day, even if we grumble while we do it.
It might be hard to imagine how cats help us with our physical health. After all, they laze around all day, poster children for that lazy Sunday when you stay home and vegetate until Monday morning. But did you know that a cat’s purr can lower your blood pressure and calm your nervous system, according to scientific? So the next time you’re feeling a bit frazzled, take time to cuddle up to your purring cat and it will lower your blood pressure in the process. And if you need a quick mood boost, give a toy to a cat. It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive: my cats go insane for the measuring cups that come with cough medicine.
Conclusion:
Pets aren’t the easiest to take care of, but they offer both mental and physical health benefits for their owners, so don’t get too angry when your cat wants to sleep directly on your face and purr the whole night. You’re getting smothered with love and health benefits!
