Self-care: the importance of animals in our lives
Looking out for ourselves or ‘self-care’ has never been more important. In a society where levels of mental unwellness are reaching disproportionate levels those two words need to go at the top of everyone’s ‘to-do’ list.
The New Zealand Health Loss Study showed that anxiety and depressive disorders are the second leading source of health loss behind coronary heart disease. In women, they are the leading cause.
Stress – in any form – left unchecked can lead to many health problems, both mentally and physically. Personal and professional relationships suffer, and many encounter feelings of inadequacy, lack of motivation, restlessness, irritability, and unhappiness.
Elsa Youthed and Seren-Rose Williams with kittens Tigger and Peanut.
Stress may manifest physically. It can show up in many forms, but common indicators include sleep difficulties, stomach disorders, high blood pressure, headache, chest pain, fatigue, and changes in sex drive. You may experience a number of these symptoms.
It is always wise, as self-care number one, to get checked out by your doctor if you are experiencing problems that are disrupting your everyday life.
Those who practice self-care on a regular basis report feeling healthier, happier, more energetic, confident and effective in their lives.
Puppy love.
Over the course of the next few weeks I will be looking at ways of caring for yourself that are cheap and accessible.
This week we are starting with pets.
Humans through-out history have always had bonds with animals. I was astonished to see the turnout at last weekend’s Art Deco Dog Parade.
The love the owners had for their dogs was astounding. The unconditional love that the dogs gave in return, shown through their willingness to wear an assortment of fancy-dress attire, was more than evident.
Nursing mother Mini.
The crowds that flocked showed their appreciation with encouragement and applauds. They loved it. Even our Prime Minister, Jacinda and her partner Clarke, selected the Dog Parade – over anything else – in which to publicly attend.
There has been overwhelming evidence to show that spending time and finding joy, with our animal friends has a multitude of positive health benefits.
Animals help alleviate depression and anxiety. They make us smile, laugh and cry. They rouse feelings of protection and strength. At times, they make us brave. They provide wonderful companionship that reduces loneliness. They bring love, joy and unconditional love. They teach us how to ‘live in the moment’. For many they give purpose – a reason for being.
Deb lee and Jackie Chan.
"I honestly couldn’t imagine living without a dog by my side. My Jackie Chan lives inside a bubble of being. She belongs with me as much as a shadow, as companion, as wairua, as a lovely funny friend. Jackie makes me feel wanted, needed, special. She brings life to my life! She is predictable, and consistent, she doesn’t have mood swings, bad days or hold a grudge. She always wakes up happy and ready to take on the world ankles up! Jackie teaches me how to be a better human. She is totally forgiving if I accidentally stand on her foot, shut her in the shed or squirt her with the hose. I have learnt forgiveness, patience and gratitude from living alongside her. I have always lived with dogs. Everyone I’ve had has been the perfect dog for that stage of my life. Jackie journeys with me through this strange old life and I feel stronger and more able when she accompanies me to work or meetings, or big public places, or walks on the beach or down the river. Jackie enables me to go to new places and take the road less travelled. I have pity for the dogless folks – remember the best cat is still not a dog.” – Deb Lee and Jackie Chan
When we pat a friendly dog or cat, or any lovable creature many things happen. Our blood pressure goes down, heart rate slows, we relax as muscle tension lessens, and our breathing becomes more regular. Hormones associated with stress such as adrenaline and cortisol are lowered and the ‘happy’ hormone - oxytocin is released.
Animals help bring us together.
"Having a house full of kittens wasn’t planned but the experience was incredibly rewarding for our whole family. Understanding and meeting the changing needs of a pregnant and nursing mother gave the children first-hand experience of the cycle of life. Raising a handful of increasingly active kittens that we knew wouldn’t be a part of our family long term taught lessons about responsibility, teamwork, trust, love and loss that will last a lifetime. Making sure the kittens were healthy, well socialized and ready for their forever homes was a job everyone, regardless of age of gender, was able to contribute to with tenderness and pride. The entire process strengthened our family bonds and created memories that we will never forget.” – Deb Youthed
Tea, biscuit and a chat with Sammy.
Any type of lovable animal will provoke these positive ‘feel-good’ feelings. From a Guinea pig to a horse! Studies have shown even caring for a goldfish will bring about such feelings.
I am not suggesting you rush out and buy a pet. That requires careful consideration. If you already have a pet, make time for it. Be kind to it, and in return you will reap many benefits.
If you do not own an animal, you can always pat and spend time with friendly animals that belong to your family or friends. Or volunteer at your local animal shelter.
A quote from my uncle, recently posted on FaceBook, touched my heart. For me it encapsulates the bond between a man and his dog.
"Here I am at 3am, alone with my Collie – Lizzie. In the darkness she puts her head on my outstretched leg and sighs in contentment, such unconditional love between a person and a dog. I reach down and stroke her head. Never really alone.” – David Cates
