Our companion animals benefit us in many ways. There has been a lot of research on how having a pet can positively impact health both physically and mentally. In this blog, I will be explaining three major ways in which our animals benefit our mental health.

Companionship

We are not meant to be alone. Our society has brought forth so much isolation (even pre-COVID). Many of us now live lives where we barely speak to our neighbours or co-workers. We live in spaces where we keep to ourselves and avoid building connections. Part of this is because our society praises independence and self-reliance. Also some of us have learned through negative experiences that it can be hard to trust other people.

An animal can provide us that companionship. They are with us whenever we need them. They also provide us with an unconditional love that we cannot find elsewhere. No one could ever love me the same way that my animals do. They make us feel connected to the world around us. They help us to feel comfort on our most lonely days.

Grounding

The art of grounding is meant to connect us back to the moment. We want to centre ourselves in our bodies. Grounding is often used when we are so stressed that we are struggling to function. Our brain cannot function properly when we are in fight/flight/freeze mode. When we experience acute levels of stress, we may need help coming back into our bodies. Trying to reason with ourselves in these moments is often unsuccessful.

Animals are great for helping us ground. The simple act of stroking an animal provides soothing and a sense of calm. Using touch is a grounding technique. The softness of an animal’s fur provides relief. The warmth from their bodies also provides a relaxing sensation. Simply having a cat in your lap as you pet them can help regulate your system. And don’t our animals seem to just know when we need this from them? My animals seem to know when I’m stressed and immediately come to provide me with some grounding. Bernard never leaves my side during a scary movie.

Mindfulness

Animals are mindfulness gurus. They know how to live in the moment better than anyone. I wish I could achieve the level of Zen Bernard has as he lays on the beach with a cool breeze. In that moment, he doesn’t worry about what happened an hour ago. And he definitely isn’t worried about what he needs to get done tomorrow. He simply lives in the moment.

I try to practice mindfulness as often as I can. Bernard helps. I am usually my most present self when I am with him. When we are in the middle of a forest just the two of us. Together we explore the sounds and smells of the forest. We become immersed in the moment we are sharing. I allow myself time and space away from all of my problems that need solutions. Instead we breathe, and run, and play. These are the moments that matter. And I’m so thankful to Bernard for reminding me of this.