02/08/2026
"Animals remind us that healing doesn't always begin with words. Sometimes it begins with a quiet moment, a gentle nudge, and the feeling of being accepted exactly as you are."
As some of you will know throughout the summer holidays we work differently and with that we deliver all the trips to encourage people to step out of their comfort zone and into the stretch zone to open up new opportunities and enlighten the soul to experience new things and learn a whole lot more about yourself by doing so.
Just by saying yes (even if you were nervous that's when it's the right time and the most scary!) But by doing something that you haven't done before with people who are new in to your life it can bring a sense of curiousity, confidence, empowerment and ultimately make you feel present in the moment which alot of us do not due to have fast pace life is in general.
This was a great day, and I'm not just saying that. Seeing everyone with the animals on the trek and as a whole group, this trip brought a sense of brother/sisterhood. They were all there for one an other, from feeling a little wary to overcoming the animals behaviours and energies around different people it was just perfect.
Everyone got a real sense of belonging, curiosity of the animals, a sense of achievement for doing something new and a moment in time we all felt relaxed and calm.
'Animals have a remarkable ability to help people feel calm, accepted and connected. For many people experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, loneliness or stress, spending time with animals can become a powerful part of their wellbeing journey alongside other appropriate support.
Benefits of animal-assisted therapy include:
1. Reduces stress and anxiety
Interacting with animals can lower stress hormones such as cortisol while increasing oxytocin, often called the "bonding hormone."
Many people report feeling calmer within minutes of spending time with a therapy animal.
2. Helps improve mood
Time with animals can increase feelings of happiness, hope and relaxation.
Animal-assisted therapy has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression in a range of settings, particularly when combined with other treatments.
3.Reduces loneliness
Animals provide companionship without judgement.
They don't care about your past, appearance, job or mistakes—they simply respond to how you treat them. This can help people who have become socially isolated rebuild confidence.
4. Encourages mindfulness
Grooming, walking, feeding or simply watching an animal encourages people to focus on the present moment rather than worrying about the past or future.
This can help interrupt cycles of overthinking.
5. Builds confidence and self-esteem
Looking after an animal creates a sense of purpose and achievement.
Small successes, such as gaining an animal's trust, can help rebuild confidence in yourself.
6. Encourages communication
Many people find it easier to start conversations when animals are present.
Therapy animals often help break down social barriers and make people feel more comfortable in group settings.
Here are some more facts which I felt was pretty interesting too (helave a read) 👇
Why do people often feel so free around animals?
- Animals communicate differently from humans. They don't criticise, judge or expect perfection.
- Many people describe animals as:
- Accepting them exactly as they are.
- Helping them slow down and breathe.
- Making them feel safe enough to be themselves.
- Providing comfort without needing words.
Some researchers also describe a phenomenon of physiological co-regulation, where a calm interaction between humans and animals can be accompanied by changes in heart rate and stress responses in both. While this area is still being researched, evidence suggests these shared calming responses may contribute to the therapeutic experience.
Research highlights
A 2026 meta-analysis found that animal-assisted therapy improved negative symptoms and reduced anxiety in people with psychotic disorders across 12 studies involving 408 participants.
A 2026 meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials concluded that animal-assisted therapy can improve psychological wellbeing, including reducing anxiety, stress and depression in adults.
Research also suggests moderate improvements in depressive symptoms among older adults receiving animal-assisted therapy.
So the bottom line is, being away from life and spending time with animals is beneficial for your mind, body and soul 🧡
Next week we have the Nature family workshop.at the WTA Retreat with Chase Nature Connection it was brilliant last week so chilled, the kids enjoyed themselves as did the grown ups! I mean we all have an our inner child still.inside of us! Haha
Big thanks to Ruby and Beth for a great day and also ❤️
