Can a pet be our fitness coach, nutritionist, and therapist all in one?
Studies show those who bond with their pets have decreased cholesterol and triglyceride levels, lowered blood pressure, as well as less feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and symptoms of PTSD.
If you’re ever feeling anxious and decide the only thing you want to do is give your pet some snuggles, there’s valid reason to do that! All worries fade away with every pet and hug of my sweet dog. No wonder this is statistically proven!
Why is companionship talked about as being crucial?
Having any form of companion (humans or animals) produces positive effects. Find a companion, and you’ll find they:
- support positive mental health
- provide aid during stressful life events
- keep the mind active on something other than oneself
- prevent social isolation
Experiences we all run into at one time or another— so even if we don’t want or have a pet, you and I need to be in relationship. This isn’t only scientifically backed, it’s biblical: “Above all, love each other deeply,” 1 Peter 4:8 NIV and Hebrews 10:24-25, “and let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together…but encouraging one another…” We need each other for spiritual and mental health, plain and simple.
But when it comes to our physical health, can it be said that animals make us more active? I found research that shows owning an animal does correlate to less chunks of time being sedentary. All animals require some sort of movement, which is why pet-owners must regularly get up to keep up with the responsibilities, whatever that may be. However, there is no correlation between overall physical health in pet-owners vs non-pet owners.
Positive physical health trends having pets
- lower blood pressure
- lower blood fat levels
- encouraged and present in over half of nursing homes due to health benefits
- prevent long periods of sitting
- improved heart rate, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels
- reduced risk for cardiovascular diseases
Luke and I can’t imagine life without a dog at this point. Our weimaraner puppy has been a huge motivator to get us out of bed earlier than we may want to in the mornings, expose ourselves to the outdoors to start our day (I could do a whole post on why getting outside first thing in the morning is good for us), and pushed us to get more steps than we ever would without him. Whether we’re exploring new locations or playing with him so he finally gets his energy out– we are so thankful for the cutest reminder to keep us moving everyday!
Even if it’s not an animal, an accountability partner is what I think of Scout as. Any form of companion can be a large factor in improving our mental, spiritual,l and physical lives. Maybe you need a pet after reading this, or maybe you just need a friend to walk alongside you. Either way, join the NOURISH tribe because we would love to help motivate you as accountability buddies!
Let’s find nourishment together:)