Need a Mood Booster? Try a Puppy Cam!
Many of us know the benefits of owning a pet. Pets can makes us feel less lonely and happier. The simple act of petting animals releases an automatic relaxation response and promotes the release of serotonin, prolactin and oxytocin, all hormones that can play a part in elevating moods. The growing popularity of animal assisted therapy uses dogs to help people recover from health problems, trauma, and social isolation.
And now there is proof that watching cute videos of baby animals can also have positive results for our mental health. A study conducted at the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom has found evidence that watching cute animal videos may contribute to a decrease in anxiety and stress. Just a few minutes of watching images or videos of animal “cuteness” can lower heart rate and blood pressure and improve our overall mood.
Scientific studies have shown that watching these kinds of clips is a tonic for our brain and can increase positive emotions. Since the pandemic, animal videos are on the rise. Whether you choose a live bird cam with a nest of baby eagles hatching, or a live cam of bird feeders, these short moments of viewing can bring joy and contentment to anyone and can be especially helpful to caregivers.
These type of videos can be found on YouTube or through search engines for live animal cams. Using these videos are a great strategy for caregivers and can easily be set up for your family member. Invite a loved one to sit down with a beverage and snack as they enjoy the animals.
Zoos are sharing the birth of zebras, monkeys, elephants, giraffes and Panda bears and we can following the babies as they grow up. So why do baby animals tug at our heart? Scientist believe that our own nurturing instinct we have for our own children and the playfulness and unsteady gait of baby animals makes us smile and connect to the animals.
If you would like more information on our Memory Ministry or our Memory Café, please contact Vicky Pitner at vpitner@firstumc.org.