Lesson #4. Be Playful
We needn’t remind kids of how to do this. It’s natural when we’re young but as we get busier and life’s demands are thrust upon us, who has time to play? A cat would tell you that you can’t afford not to play!
Play is fun. Play makes you laugh. Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, which in turn promote an overall sense of well-being. Laughter also decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease. More play means less stress.
A cat would tell you to never underestimate the power of playtime!
Lesson #5. Take Time for a Cat Nap
We can all probably agree that cats pretty much invented napping. Our feline napping experts not only value the importance of sleep, but also look adorable doing it! Studies have shown that indulging in a little midday shut-eye can work wonders for your alertness, memory, creativity, productivity and overall mood. Seize the opportunity to curl up next to your furry friend sometime and see for yourself how refreshed you’ll feel after a 15-20-minute rest.
Cats can sleep for hours. They can find all kinds of small areas to curl into a little ball and sleep while the world moves on outside their window. Watch the rhythmic breathing as they snooze. It’s probably not practical, or even desirable, to sleep as many hours as the cat, but think about going through your day in a resting, peaceful state. Even though you are awake and doing what you need to do, you can be peaceful and internally contented at the same time.
A cat would teach you to calm your inner being, and seek that internal restful state allowing the world outside to remain chaotic while you bask in a few moments of stillness. Ahhhhhh….
