THE CUDDLE CHEMICAL

Puppy cuddles and yoga – it sounds like the ultimate self care package. Reporter Sophie Brown (pictured centre below) went to a session to see if Puppy Yoga really works.

I’ve always gone to tough circuit classes and never really considered yoga. After a difficult year, I tried it and found calmness and a difference in my mood, physical strength, and balance.

I’d read how four Liverpool psychology students came up with the idea of combining yoga and spending time with a puppy as a

THE CUDDLE CHEMICAL

By Sophie Brown

way of boosting mood, wellbeing, and physical strength. I’m a dog lover so it was no surprise to learn that being with a puppy decreases levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

As I and my friends Amie and Emily embarked on an hour long yoga session (nothing a beginner couldn’t manage) little bundles of fur (in our case Huskies) bounded, lay and slept next to us.

It was like nothing I’ve experienced before. That combination of mental clarity and calmness created by yoga and the comforting effect of cuddling a puppy makes it special.

My friends felt the same. “You forget your worries while you’re there. You’re either holding a yoga pose while a puppy sleeps next to you, or you’re cuddling them – either way it’s heaven”, said Emily.

Amie enjoyed the flexibility. “You can enjoy it in your own way. If you want to stop halfway through the yoga for a lie down with a puppy, you can”.

There’s a cost, so for me Puppy Yoga would be an occasional treat. For a purse friendly alternative meet friends with pets for brunch, enjoy a walk – and of course canine cuddles.”

Studies have shown that even small interactions with dogs cause the human brain to produce oxytocin, a hormone often referred to as the “cuddle chemical.” Oxytocin increases feelings of relaxation. Pets can be great listeners, offer unconditional love and won’t criticise you. This can help your self confidence, especially if you feel isolated or misunderstood, trust, and empathy while reducing stress and anxiety.

Petsforpatriots.org

Mental Health Foundation: mentalhealth.org.uk

puppyyogauk.co.uk

Reporter Sophie Brown (centre) and friends enjoy a cuddle with Husky puppies.