From goat yoga to sound baths, the world is full of wellness trends designed to soothe and calm both body and spirit. Now, a self-care practice hailing from the Netherlands is promising practitioners serenity, and perhaps a smile or two.
Dubbed “koe knuffelen” in Dutch (literally “cow hugging”), the practice is centred on the inherent healing properties of a good human-to-animal snuggle. Cow cuddlers typically start by taking a tour of the farm before resting against one of the cows for two to three hours. The cow’s warmer body temperature, slower heartbeat and mammoth size can make hugging them an incredibly soothing experience, and giving the animal a backrub, reclining against them or even getting licked is all part of the therapeutic encounter.
Cow cuddling is believed to promote positivity and reduce stress by boosting oxytocin in humans, the hormone released in social bonding. The calming effects of curling up with a pet or emotional support animal, it seems, are accentuated when cuddling with larger mammals.
I – Word Understanding
Goat yoga – yoga done outdoor with goats roaming around
Sound Baths – a meditative experience using sound for therapeutic and restorative effects
Hailing from – originally coming from
Inherent – natural
II – Have Your Say
1, Do you like cows? When was the last time you saw a cow up close? How do you feel about hugging cows?
2, What other animals do you think can be used for therapy? Which ones are used in your country?
3, How does animal therapy work? Share your thoughts on the following:
a, reducing boredom
b, increasing movement and activity through walks and play
c, providing companionship and decreasing loneliness
d, increasing social interactions
e, improving mood and general well-being
4, If you are to do animal therapy, what are things you need to consider first?
