We all know how good it feels to come home to a wagging tail and a warm body to cuddle with. But did you know that your pet can actually help reduce your stress levels? Studies have shown that spending time with pets can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even help you live longer.
So how does this work? Well, when you interact with your pet, your body releases oxytocin, a hormone that is known to decrease stress levels. Oxytocin is sometimes called the “cuddle hormone” or the “love hormone” because it is also released when we hug or kiss our loved ones.
In addition to the release of oxytocin, spending time with pets can also help to distract us from the things that are causing us stress. When we pet an animal or play with them, we are focusing on the present moment and not on the things that are stressing us out. This can help to clear our minds and give us a break from our stressors.
Pets can also provide us with a sense of security and safety. When we are feeling stressed, we may feel like we are alone in the world and that no one understands us. But our pets are always there for us, no matter what. They provide us with unconditional love and support, which can help to reduce our stress levels.
So next time you’re feeling stressed, take a break and spend some time with your furry (or not so furry) friend. It just might be the stress-relief you need.
