Any repetitive motion, such as petting a cat, rubbing a worry stone, knitting, or even waxing a car, has been proven to have a meditative calming effect, thereby reducing blood pressure and overall stress.
It is fortunate that my cat, Queen Isabella (better known as Izzy), thoroughly enjoys being frequently mauled. She’s so malleable I’ve considered renaming her “Slinky.” She just “goes with the flow,” accepting hugs and squeezes from children and geezers alike, and always comes back for more.
Staring into the flickerings of a nocturnal campfire can also do wonders to restore the stressed-out soul. Overcoming my irrational fear of bats and other non-threatening nocturnal creatures, I often sit out at my fire pit until late at night, mesmerized by the dancing phoenixes in the flames.
Cats and campfires. Two of the best all-round stress-busters I know. And here’s the really good news: If you don’t have a cat, you can always visit your local animal shelter. The cats there crave attention, and you might just find yourself adopting a feline friend.
It’s lots cheaper than therapy!