Wednesday

“If having a soul means being able to feel love and loyalty and gratitude, then animals are better off than a lot of humans.”

-James Herriot

Welcome to Wednesday! Today, we're chatting about:

• Science says that pets make us happy

• Would you try goat yoga?

• Cats love this eco-friendly cat litter

• Why pet care is a form of self-care

• One easy trick to save money

The Unexpected Ways Pets Can Make You Happy

Ever notice how a bad day feels a little better when your pet curls up beside you? Turns out it’s not just in your head—science backs up the idea that pets can lower stress, ease anxiety, and even improve heart health. Whether it’s a tail wag or a soft purr, animals have a way of making life a little brighter.

Studies show pet owners tend to have lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol levels, and even higher survival rates after heart attacks. Just petting a dog or cat can trigger serotonin and dopamine release, the feel-good chemicals that help us relax. For older adults, pets offer much-needed companionship, reducing feelings of loneliness and keeping them more active.

Even non-traditional pets have benefits. Fish tanks can lower stress, birds can keep minds sharp, and rabbits can be perfect for small spaces. It’s less about the type of pet and more about the bond you share.

So the next time your pet demands attention, take it as a health boost. They might not have a medical degree, but they’re doing wonders for your well-being.

5 Billion Pounds of Clay and Silica Are Mined Each Year…

Just to make cat litter. Most traditional cat litters are made of strip-mined bentonite clay or silica gel, leading to habitat destruction, soil erosion, and water pollution. Both end up in landfills when thrown away and are not biodegradable.

A new natural cat litter called Tailfeather is changing this with their eco-friendly, plant-based, clumping cat litter made from coconut and cassava.

Why coconut? The husk of the coconut absorbs liquid up to 9 times its weight! This makes for a soft, luxurious litter that cats love and is 70% lighter than traditional litter, but also doesn't track and bounce out of the box.

It's fully biodegradable and 100% plastic-free, including the packaging. Tailfeather is delivered conveniently to your door and each package lasts for 8 weeks, double the amount of other litters.

For the next 24 hours, Daily Purr readers get a $15 credit on your first order with code NTS15.

Try Tailfeather for your cat and the environment today.

Thank you to Tailfeather for sponsoring Note To Self. 

Need a Mood Boost? Try Yoga with Puppies

Yoga is already known for its stress-relieving benefits, but imagine holding a stretch while a kitten curls up on your mat. That’s the magic of animal yoga—a growing trend where furry friends like puppies, kittens, and even goats join the session. More than just a social media sensation, these classes offer a unique way to unwind and connect with the present moment.

Studies show that interacting with animals can lower stress levels, reduce blood pressure, and boost mood. When combined with yoga’s natural ability to calm the nervous system, the result is an ultra-soothing, feel-good experience. Many shelters and studios offering these classes have also noticed another perk: participants often leave with a new pet.

For the animals, it’s just as beneficial. Shelter kittens and puppies get valuable socialization, making them more comfortable around people and more likely to find homes. And let’s be honest—who wouldn’t want to take home the fluffy little distraction that climbed into their lap mid-pose?

Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just looking for a fun way to de-stress, animal yoga might be the most joyful workout you’ll ever try. Just don’t be surprised if your new downward dog partner is an actual dog.

How Pets Can Encourage Self-Care

Taking care of your pet isn’t just about their well-being—it’s a powerful form of self-care for you, too. Whether you have a dog, cat, or other furry companion, petting or playing with them can help you reduce stress and improve your mood. When you cuddle or interact with your pet, your body releases serotonin, the feel-good hormone that promotes relaxation and happiness.

For those who work from home, incorporating short pet care moments throughout the day can act as grounding techniques. Whether it's a quick morning cuddle or a midday play session, your pet’s presence helps you step away from stress and focus on something joyful. This practice can also serve as a form of gratitude—taking a moment to appreciate the comfort and love your pet brings.

Even physical activities like playing with your pet can sneak in some extra movement. Chasing a toy or tossing a ball isn’t just fun for them; it gives you a mini workout, boosting both your pet’s energy and your health. This simple routine adds a burst of joy, keeping you active and engaged.

So next time you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, consider leaning into the bond you share with your pet. It’s a win-win for both of you!

Make Sure You Have the Best Car Insurance Deal by Shopping Around

Wellness Round-Up

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ True or False: True! Spending time with pets has been shown to lower cortisol levels and increase feelings of calmness.

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers’ lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Today, take an extra moment to appreciate your furry (or feathery, or scaly) friend—and maybe even return the favor with a belly rub, a long walk, or a few extra treats.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!