Cow-hugging therapy explained
Cow-hugging therapy[1] or cow cuddling involves people hugging cows for healing. People have claimed that it has mental health benefits.[2] [3] As of late 2023, it was reported to be becoming popular around the world.[4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] Cow therapy also includes spending time with cows, especially in farm settings, beyond just cow cuddling. Centers with cow therapy can be included within a broader mental health program.
Origins
Cow-hugging therapy originated in the Netherlands.[10] [11] In Australia, the NDIS has plans which include cow therapy.[12] [13]
The history of domesticated animals serving as emotional support is not new. The mental health benefits of pet companions along with other animals is well documented.[14] Cows have their own particular personalities which make them a unique alternative to more conventional companions such as dogs or cats.[15] They are also suited to more rural settings which also supports mental health for people experiencing psychological difficulties.[16] [17]
See also
Notes and References
- Web site: Cow Hug Therapy . Nadipathy . 2023-12-12.
- Web site: Is cow hugging the world's new wellness trend? . 2024-01-25 . BBC.
- Web site: Jokes apart, cow hugging has benefits. But, the cow must know you . 2023-12-12 . India Today.
- Web site: 2021-05-25 . Cow Cuddling: Is Hugging Animals Becoming a 'Wellness Trend' in a Covid World? . 2023-12-12 . News18.
- Web site: 2022-07-26 . Cow Hugging: Yes it's a Thing . 2023-12-12 . Psych Central.
- Web site: Cow Cuddling & Brushing . 2023-12-12 . Ahimsa Milk.
- Web site: 2022-07-12 . 'Cow cuddling' is the latest mental health trend. But does it work? . 2023-12-12 . Today.
- Web site: Cow Hugging Emerges as Latest Wellness Trend: 'People Think It's Very Relaxing' . 2023-12-12 . People.
- Web site: 2023-12-04 . Feeling stressed? You can cuddle cows to relieve anxiety at this farm . 2023-12-12 . Euronews.
- Web site: Rai . Margesh . 2022-10-25 . Cow Cuddling Therapy: A New Wellness Trend in Demand . 2023-12-12 . SwadeshiVIP.
- Sharma, Shubham (January-March, 2021). Cow cuddling': psychotherapy to reduce stress and anxiety". The International Journal of Indian Psychology. 9 (1): 86–90
- https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/would-we-fund-it/assistive-technologies/therapy-animals
- https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2022/aug/14/these-cows-saved-my-life-the-queensland-farm-offering-healing-cattle-cuddles
- https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/pets-and-mental-health
- https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2022/aug/14/these-cows-saved-my-life-the-queensland-farm-offering-healing-cattle-cuddles
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24641788/
- https://www.wfyi.org/news/articles/farm-based-activities-can-support-mental-wellness-why-arent-there-more-care-farms-in-the-us