We all know that spending time with animals makes us feel good, but did you know that it can actually help calm your nervous system? Whether it’s your pet at home or a furry friend you meet at a shelter, animals have an amazing ability to influence our well-being in ways that go beyond just happiness.
When you interact with animals, your body releases oxytocin—a hormone that reduces stress and promotes feelings of calm and connection. Petting a dog or snuggling up with a cat can lower your blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and even improve your heart rate. It’s a natural wellness boost, along with unconditional love! 🐾
Animals also remind us to stay present. Whether they’re chasing a ball or curling up for a nap, their simplicity helps ground us in the moment, giving our busy minds a break. For those of us dealing with the daily grind, a little time with a pet can make a big difference, both mentally and physically.
Another incredible way animals support our nervous system is through their ability to create a sense of routine and stability. Pets, especially dogs, thrive on regular schedules—whether it's morning walks, meal times, or playtime. This structure helps to regulate our own body clocks and fosters a sense of rhythm in our day, which is essential for reducing stress and promoting a healthy, balanced nervous system.
Establishing such routines is not only good for our pets but also for us. A structured day has been shown to reduce stress and promote better sleep patterns, both of which are critical for maintaining a healthy, balanced nervous system. Having a pet means that we have to get up, take breaks, and step away from work or other stressors, offering moments of mindfulness and peace that are often missing in our busy routines.
For those who don’t have pets, the benefits of interacting with animals can still be experienced. Visiting a local shelter, like the SPCA, or spending time volunteering with animals provides many of the same calming effects. Animal-assisted therapy has even been shown to help people dealing with serious conditions like PTSD, anxiety disorders, and depression. Animals create a safe, non-judgmental space where we can feel accepted, which is incredibly healing for those going through tough times.
Incorporating time with animals into your daily or weekly routine is a simple yet effective way to care for your mental and physical health. Whether it’s a few minutes of playtime, a walk in the park with your dog, or a visit to a shelter, the connection you form with animals can bring an immediate sense of calm and long-lasting wellness benefits. So the next time you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed, consider spending some time with a furry friend—it might just be the natural therapy you didn’t know you needed.
Plus: This month, we are having an amazing fundraising campaign to help animals in need!
Capitol Floats Presents: Wellness & Wags – Give for Health, Give for Paws
We’re excited to announce our Wellness & Wags campaign, running from October 2nd to 31st, 2024! Here’s how it works: for every $80 gift card you purchase, you’ll get $100 in value, and 10% of your purchase goes directly to the SPCA. It’s the perfect way to take care of your own wellness while making a difference for the animals who support ours.
➡️ Buy Sac ⬅️
➡️ Buy Auburn ⬅️
Whether you’re floating with us or buying a gift card for a friend, you’ll be helping raise $5,000 for our furry friends. It’s wellness with heart. 💙
Feel good, do good, and make an impact—both for yourself and for the animals who need it most.
Comments