|
A study done on over 3,000 women in China determined that the women who had dogs exercised more often, slept better, reported better fitness levels, and took less sick days. I’ll bet you never thought of it like that, did you?
Psychologists maintain that pets can actually relieve mild depression and anxiety. This does not mean a pet will be an end all cure for your mental disorder, but they can help significantly. It is hard to prevent your mood from lifting when you are welcomed home by your pet wagging its tail and panting in excitement. The unconditional love a pet gives you can only help lift your spirits each day. In addition, pets can help relieve a person’s loneliness. Having a pet to love and take care of, helps re-direct a person’s energy. They don’t focus on their own problems quite as much and focus more on their pet.
Not only does having a pet increase the unconditional love and laughter in your life, but it can also help increase your physical activity. When you have to take your dog for a walk several times a day, your exercise will most likely increase. Not to mention chasing your dog around the house making sure he or she is not going to the bathroom on your floor, grabbing a forbidden shoe, or chewing up something so unappealing in our eyes, but to a puppy it’s oh so good! If that sounds like way too much work for your liking, keep in mind there are thousands of older dogs and cats who are already passed their trouble-making stages that need good homes and people to love.
In addition, a pet can help you improve your social life. Earlier this month, my boyfriend and I decided to adopt a puppy. After searching online, I found an adorable Boxer Mix who I thought would be perfect for us. We adopted her through Lucky Dog Animal Rescue and brought her home at about 3 months old, naming her Lily.
I have had at least one person a day comment on our new dog. Sometimes the conversation is short and stays focused on the dog, but other times it may turn into something more. For example, I spoke to a young couple for about twenty minutes who were interested in adopting a dog of their own. There is also probably a dog park in your area where several people take their dogs to play, as well as socialize. Finally, many pet adoption organizations host local events such as barbeques, dog washes, etc. where you can take your dog, and also meet other people.
We never fully imagined all of the changes Lily would bring to our lives. Of course, we talked about the financial aspects, the additional responsibility and time commitment, but we never really thought about how adopting a dog could actually benefit our health in the long run.
Lily has been a great addition to our family. We are so lucky to have been able to adopt her. If pet ownership sounds like something you are interested in, please research local shelters and adoption organizations in your area. There are so many pets that need a good home. Trust me, they’ll make it worth your while, and your health!
You can find more information on this subject:
Jacquelyn Matoian’s Bio:
Jacquelyn has been working in the health and wellness field for over three years. Currently as a Health Promotion Coordinator for L&T Health and Fitness, a government contracting company, she develops, implements, and evaluates health promotion programs, lectures, and health fairs for the Government Accountability Office Headquarters in Washington, DC. She also has a primary group exercise certification from the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA), as well as a personal trainer certification from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).
She left her home in Colorado to study at American University in Washington, DC, where she earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration before going to work in the health and wellness field. While working full time at the United States Postal Service Health Promotion Program, Jacquelyn earned her Master’s in Health Promotion Management from American University.
Jacquelyn is very passionate about the major health issues affecting the United States today. She hopes to make a positive contribution to the state of the country’s health in her career and everyday life. She strives to make positive health changes not only in the lives of the people she knows and loves, but in her own life as well.
|
About GAO Wellness and Fitness Center:
L&T Health and Fitness was founded in 1984 by two women and has been a leader in worksite fitness management and health promotion delivery for over 25 years. L&T serves many government agencies including the Government Accountability Office Headquarters building in Washington DC. L&T has worked with the GAO Fitness and Athletic Association since 1989 to provide employees with a Wellness and Fitness Center and the opportunity to make health a priority in their lives.
The Center provides health promotion events including incentive programs, lectures and workshops, health screenings, and an annual health fair. Several group exercise classes are offered daily including cycle, step, kickboxing, yoga and Pilates, and strengthening classes. In addition, staff members will work with individuals to meet their health and fitness goals through personal training. The GAO Wellness and Fitness Center is also open to federal employees and contractors with other agencies.
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
