A Pet May Be a Healthy Addition to Your Life
By Tom Herrin
As children, most of us likely thought of pets as something to entertain us. They were especially fun when they were young, then they often became a lot of responsibility as they grew older. Either way, they can be enjoyable. Apparently some have discovered that having a pet may have more benefits than that. It seems that interacting with a pet may help to support good health in several somewhat subtle ways. For those who may be a fit for a pet, it is worth considering even if you do not see yourself as a pet person.
Pets May Affect Our Hormones
We all have hormones that have different roles in our lives. Cortisol is a hormone that helps us react to stress. When we need it to protect ourselves against something, it can be good. When it increases our personal stress, it can be bad. It is believed that having a pet may help to reduce our levels of cortisol. The other end of that spectrum is oxytocin. It is a hormone that can make us feel good. Some think that having a pet may help to increase our levels of this hormone. In this case, it is a really good thing.
Pets May Take Us for a Walk
Most of us who have had pets are aware that they need exercise. If we do this regularly, guess who else gets exercise. That's right. As we get out and move around, we are sure to get more exercise than we do otherwise. It can work well, especially for those of us who have trouble finding the motivation to follow a regular routine of workouts. As they explore, we may find ourselves doing the same. Discovering the sights that are available around us can be a pleasure. While a 30-minute walk with a pet may not be intense, it sure is better that sitting down for that same length of time.
Pets Provide Companionship
Some of us spend time alone by choice while some do so out of circumstance. Whether it be that someone who lives with us has gone long hours with work or we have had some other situation occur, spending a lot of time alone can be difficult. Knowing there is someone waiting when we arrive home can make it all a better experience. In addition, a pet means that we have someone to be responsible for, and the good thing is they seldom argue with whatever we say.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Longmont, Colo.