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I recently had a six-hour marathon video call session to review CFDA scholarship applicants from Marist College’s junior design students. It was filled with wonderful, diverse talented young minds and was exciting to see… although it wore me out. Like many of us, I’ve been spending too much time on Zoom and in front of my computer, and this leaves me mentally (and physically) drained. What I find works for me to recharge is taking my dogs out for a long walk. I went with my Bernese mountain dog, Hug, to our new favorite hiking spot, Burger Hill in Rhinebeck, which has great views (see pic above). Being surrounded by nature, with my furry pal at my side, is the most rejuvenating experience. And I know Hug loves the fresh mountain air, too! So it was validating and fascinating to hear from our recent podcast guest expert, Philip Tedeschi a professor at the University of Denver, that how I feel on my walk with Hug has actually been scientifically studied and proven. He explains that when you’re outside with your dog on a walk and they’re feeling good, they’re playing, they’re relaxed – then our own ability to parallel that same neurological status is increased. In other words, taking dog walks enable us to absorb their happy feelings at a neurobiological level. Another interesting point that Philip spoke about is how much animals can benefit young children, especially in their emotional development. Our other podcast guest this past month, Topher Brophy, actually spoke to this idea in his own life growing up. And how now, as a new father, he’s seeing the gentleness of his two dogs with his two toddlers, and how heartwarming it is for him to see their innate connections to each another. Don’t forget to stop and sniff the May flowers on your next dog walk, or at least let your dog do it, and make it a great day for both of you! - JB
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