How animals connect with your spirit

After going to a sacred plant medicine ceremony, one of the things that stood out to me the most was, "Why don't I have a pet?".

Growing up our family was surrounded by the presence of animals. Cats, dogs, ferrets, bunnies, birds, frogs, geckos, turtles, yadda yadda yadda. So, as I got home from this journey, feeling extremely heart centered and open, I made an effort to look around animal shelters, and told my sister about the possibility of getting a cat. Doesn't seem like a big deal to most, but to me, living on my own, having a fresh smelling apartment...Oh yes. The simple pleasures. I feel like it was almost embedded inside of me that I wanted the opposite of when I was growing up since our house and outdoors didn't always smell the best with our little friends scurrying around.

One afternoon, my friend, April out of the blue (who I've known my whole life, but didn't really keep in contact with too much) texted me that there were two kittens running around her friends backyard and they needed good homes. I was in shock because 1. Oh hey, haven't talked to you in so long and 2. I was just literally thinking about getting a cat a few days ago. Funny how these things telepathically happen.

Once I saw my baby Leo, a grey calico with green eyes that shimmered with playfulness and energy, I knew he was going to be my buddy.

It was an adjustment, and I know having a kitten isn't the same as a dog, or a baby for that matter, but he was still a little shithead. Haha I couldn't sleep at all for the first few months and it was torture. How could this tiny kitten cause so much frustration for me through out these months. It took me back for a second, and made me requestion the possibility of having kids one day! Yikes, I know...but a girl loves her sleep.

Through Leo's presence and innocence, I knew I needed to loosen up. He was just a baby playing around, in a setting he's not used to. Chill out, Alyssa. I eventually got used to the pattering of his paws on my wooden floors through out the night, the jump scares in the middle of the early morning, and his love bites on my ankles when I worked from home because he was hungry. He taught me that taking care of my frustrations and just giving in to the innocent nature was okay.

How could a cat do this? Well he isn't just a cat. I witnessed firsthand the profound healing that occurs when science and spirituality intertwine, and how an animals have the ability to heal in so many ways.

A Spiritual Connection: Leo's arrival in my life felt like a divine intervention—a gentle nudge from the universe reminding me of the interconnectedness of all beings and how important it was to hold grace and patience for myself and others. In spiritual traditions around the world, animals are revered for their ability to serve as messengers from the divine, guiding us on our journey of self-discovery and growth. Leo's bold yet gentle demeanor spoke volumes, as if he had been sent to me as a beacon of light in a time of awakening in my life. Our connection transcended the physical realm, rooted in a shared understanding that it's okay to play around a little here and there.

Emotional Regulation: Scientific research has illuminated the profound impact that animals have on human emotions. Interacting with animals triggers the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone," which promotes feelings of trust, relaxation, and bonding. Leo had an innate ability to sense my moods and respond with unwavering compassion. Whether I was feeling lost in my intrusive thoughts or overwhelmed by the chaos of life, Leo's presence offered solace and comfort beyond measure. His silent or not so silent reassurance, manifested through gentle touches and soothing purrs, became a lifeline in moments of uncertainty.

Physiological Effects: Beyond the emotional benefits, Leo's presence exerted tangible physiological effects on my well-being. Studies have shown that interacting with animals can lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and decrease levels of cortisol—the stress hormone. In Leo's company, I experienced a sense of calm and tranquility that permeated every fiber of my being. His warm rhythmic purring, slapping my legs for attention, or running around in circles from his zoomies served as a balm for my soul, melting away tension and restoring balance and playfulness to my body and mind.

In the tapestry of my life, Leo's presence is a testament to the power of connection—the invisible thread that binds us to all living beings. Through him, I witnessed the convergence of science and spirituality, each complementing the other in a harmonious dance of healing and transformation. As I reflect on our shared journey, I am reminded of the profound truth that love knows no bounds—that in the presence of a kindred spirit, miracles abound and the impossible becomes possible—a constant reminder of the enduring bond that transcends time and space, and that life isn't so serious all the time.

Take a moment to enjoy your life, ground yourself in knowing that it's okay to let your inner child play sometimes. We're all going through this life with so much shit happening left and right, when the innocence of a little furry creature comes in randomly, take it as a sign that you have

He's more than just a cat...

He's,

My little protector,

My little love,

My guardian angel