Learning to enjoy the simple things in life like spending time with your pets or tending to a plant, goes a long way to improving your state of mind. Often we get so caught up in the hopelessness of the situation that we forget to enjoy the tiny moments. Watching the sun set behind the hill, seeing the raindrops form riverlets on the window pane, enjoying the smell of freshly cut grass - strangely, these simple things bring a gentle joy to an otherwise dull day.
Studies have shown that having animals around you can help reduce stress and lower blood pressure. Positive interaction such as stroking your dog or cuddling your cat can have a calming influence on you, both physically and mentally. "Pet therapy" is often used in hospitals, nursing homes, schools and prisons to help reduce loneliness, anger, depression, and stress.
My own cats have brought me considerable joy since I became ill. They offer me friendship, fun and love, yet ask for very little in return. I've felt desperately low at times but their presence never fails to put a smile on my face!
For more information on Pet Therapy check out the following articles:
http://www.msif.org/en/publications/ms_in_focus/issue_5_healthy_living
/the_value_of_pet.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/506475.stm
- or check out the linked article about Pet Therapy under the Articles of Interest section on the right.
N.B The beautiful cat above is 'Wordsworth' my Burmese - enjoying a well-earned break!
Studies have shown that having animals around you can help reduce stress and lower blood pressure. Positive interaction such as stroking your dog or cuddling your cat can have a calming influence on you, both physically and mentally. "Pet therapy" is often used in hospitals, nursing homes, schools and prisons to help reduce loneliness, anger, depression, and stress.
My own cats have brought me considerable joy since I became ill. They offer me friendship, fun and love, yet ask for very little in return. I've felt desperately low at times but their presence never fails to put a smile on my face!
For more information on Pet Therapy check out the following articles:
http://www.msif.org/en/publications/ms_in_focus/issue_5_healthy_living
/the_value_of_pet.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/506475.stm
- or check out the linked article about Pet Therapy under the Articles of Interest section on the right.
N.B The beautiful cat above is 'Wordsworth' my Burmese - enjoying a well-earned break!