The holidays can be a great time to create happy memories, but it can also be a challenging time for many individuals. The bright side is that your cat (or dog) can help you cope with the feeling of isolation and anxiety, not just throughout the holiday but at any time of the year.
A few of the reasons people may be struggling throughout the holidays include:
- Missing your loved ones who are no longer with you.
- Being lonely because we have no one to share the season with.
- Having health issues or coping with families or loved ones who have health issues.
- Being financially insecure, particularly when so much emphasis is placed on getting gifts and material items. And not wanting to get involved.
- We are feeling negative regarding our own family dynamic, including useless family relationships.
- Having impractical assumptions regarding what the holiday season is supposed to be like, as portrayed on social media.
If you cannot seem to feel the holiday spirit this year and you have a furry pal, consider yourself lucky because our cats offer an array of comfort and positivity by being themselves! Here are some of those:
Listen to the Purr
Science has shown that cat purrs have both stress-relieving and healing properties. So when you make your cat purr, both of you greatly benefit from it.
Petting Your Cats (or Dogs) Provides Anxiety Alleviation
Research studies have revealed our furry friends' power to help reduce our stress and anxiety levels. In one research, individuals were asked to pet a live pet and a stuffed animal. The outcomes show clear advantages of virtual petting pets. So give your cat some extra petting and cuddling this holiday season! They'll love you for it, and you will feel so much better.
Include Your Pets in Your Holiday Plans
If you aren't sharing the holidays with other humans, plan an enjoyable and indulgent day on your own. Be sure to include your pets! You can have a day of watching Netflix, prepare your favorite dish and some wine, and spend quality time with your cats. Another idea is to give your cats some toys and play with them. If you want a quiet night, you can also pick a book to read, make some tea, light a candle, and snuggle with your cat under the comfortable blanket. Whatever your idea of fun is, plan and include your pets in it!
Volunteer throughout the Holiday
Often, leaving your house to help those in need areas a fantastic way to have a meaningful holiday. Several companies need volunteers to assist at this season, so your contribution will undoubtedly be valued. Consider volunteering or donating at animal rescues, a soup kitchen, or any other charity that tugs at your heart.
Reduce the Time You Spend on Social Media
Studies have revealed that using social media sites platforms can trigger depression, stress, and anxiety. Individuals tend to upload only the best view of their lives, leaving out any challenges or problems that we face as human beings. Try to stay off of social networks if you find that it depresses you or increases your stress and anxiety.
It may not always appear that somebody feels lonesome or is having a hard time during the holidays. Try to be sensitive and conscious that while it may be the best time of the year for you, it may not be for others.
How about you? How do you plan to spend the holidays? Share it with us in the comments below!
