A recent study published in Seoul, South Korea has scientifically confirmed what dog owners have known all along: interacting with their furry friends can be incredibly calming and restorative.
The study focused on the impact of interacting with a dog, specifically a poodle, on human mood and brain activity. Researchers conducted electroencephalogram (EEG) tests to measure brain activity and administered subjective questionnaires to 30 adults with an average age of 28.
Participants engaged in eight different activities with the poodle, including meeting it for the first time, playing, feeding, massaging, grooming, hugging, walking, and even taking photographs. The results revealed some intriguing patterns.
Walking the dog led to increased activity in brain regions associated with stability and relaxation. Massaging the dog, on the other hand, boosted activity in areas linked to attention and concentration. Notably, playing with the dog resulted in increased activity in both sets of regions.
In addition to the brain activity measurements, participants also reported feeling less stressed, tired, and depressed after interacting with the dog. This suggests that spending time with dogs can have a significant positive impact on our emotional well-being.
If you’re looking for ways to relax and unwind, consider incorporating some quality time with your dog into your routine. Whether it’s a game of fetch, a leisurely walk, or a cuddle session, the benefits of canine companionship extend beyond unconditional love and entertainment; they also promote relaxation and emotional well-being.
