City life is often brimming with hustle and bustle. Everyone is out there to get and achieve something. We hardly take a break anymore or a pause to focus on ourselves. Stress and anxiety are at an all-time high and we are glued to our phones like there’s no tomorrow.
In this fast-paced world, it is easy to forget the simple joys of life that once used to bring us solace and comfort. One of them is the simple pleasure of spending time with animals.
Whether you're cuddling a cat, walking a dog, or watching fish swim gracefully in a tank, the perks of spending time with animals are numerous and profound.
The benefits can be divided into the following categories -
Mental Health Benefits
Decreased Stress and Anxiety- Numerous studies have shown that interacting with animals can significantly reduce stress levels by lowering cortisol, the hormone associated with stress. The simple act of petting an animal can evoke a sense of calm and relaxation, providing a much-needed respite from the chaos of daily life, and making animal therapy for anxiety a blessing in disguise.
Enhances Mood: Feeling down or blue? Spending time with farm animals can be a natural mood booster. Whether it's the infectious joy of a cat’s purring or our horses' gentle gaze, animals can lift our spirits and infuse us with positivity.
Unconditional companionship: Animals are known to help with anxiety and depression and have a non-judgmental ear to listen to. They have a comforting presence that can soothe a troubled mind. When you are staying at Farm Aavjo, they will be the top reason you get out of bed each day. The routine and responsibility of caring for an animal also help instill a sense of purpose and structure, which aids your mental well-being.
Riddhi, from Ransi Gaon w. Hemraj Bhaiya, farm's caretaker
Physical Health Benefits
Boosted Immunity: Some studies suggest that being around animals can boost your immune system. This mainly happens as exposure to animals can help build up your body's resistance to certain allergens and pathogens.
Pain Management: Animal-assisted therapy is gaining popularity as it’s shown to help reduce pain in people with chronic conditions such as arthritis and high blood pressure. The presence of animals can help distract from pain and promote feelings of well-being. Read our post on how a Cat’s purr can help you heal!
Improved Heart Health: Spending time with farm animals has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. The calming effect of being around animals benefits the nervous system greatly and also reduces one’s blood pressure and heart rate, leading to improved cardiovascular health.
Duckus, farm's one name ducks
Laxmi, farm's playful cow
Social and Emotional Health
Increased Empathy: Caring for animals helps increase your empathy and compassion. Understanding and meeting their needs just by observing them can be incredibly powerful and can translate into being more empathetic towards others, both humans and animals alike.
Sense of Purpose and Fulfilment: Caring for an animal goes beyond feeding and petting – it can help one foster a deep sense of responsibility and accountability. Whether it’s your pet, a stray, or a farm animal, making a positive difference in the life of any animal can be incredibly rewarding and enriching. If you show them love and care, they will reciprocate it in some form or the other. And let’s face it, spending time with animals is way better than doom-scrolling!
Mindfulness and Presence: Farm Animals live in the moment, and being around them can help us practice mindfulness and presence. Engaging with them can help us appreciate the here and now, reducing anxiety about the past or future.
Tanya, Marketing Head w. Cookie, the cat
FAQ’s
Which therapy animals are present at Farm Aavjo?
Farm Aavjo has various kinds of animals present on the property. Engage in Animal Therapy with Laxmi (Cow), Riddhi, and Siddhi (Horses).
How can I interact with Farm Animals?
At the Farm, you can interact with the animals in multiple ways such as feeding, gentle stroking and petting, respectfully observing their language and mannerisms, and participating in farm chores such as collecting eggs, herding animals, etc.
Can you tell us more about our Farm Mascot - Cookie?
Cookie - Our founder’s OG farm roommate.
Anshika lost her first cat Bisku when he was only 6 months old, that was tough for various reasons and that’s when Cookie came into her life. Initially, Anshika was not fond of her and felt forced to take her in but one night when Cookie gently climbed Anshika’s chest and sat there looking into her eyes, blinking and purring, our director knew she was going to be just fine. It’s a love story 😛
Finally, the benefits of spending time with animals extend far beyond mere feeding, petting, and clicking pretty portraits. Farm animals possess great power to help anyone who meets and greets them. From stress reduction and mood enhancement to improved mental and physical health, the impact of our furry farm animals on our well-being is undeniable.
So, the next time you're feeling overwhelmed or in need of a pick-me-up, consider seeking solace in the company of an animal - and if you are with us at Farm Aavjo, it would be even better!