When was the last time you visited the animal sanctuary? For many, their last visit was when they were kids. And what a magical time it was, from seeing all the amazing animals to learning more about them and interacting with them. What is it about reaching adulthood that keeps so many away throughout the years? When exactly did going to an animal sanctuary solely become a place for children or people with children? We don’t quite have an answer for that one, but we do want to clear the air. Animal Sanctuaries aren’t solely for children. Sure, they’re beneficial and educational for children, but adults can enjoy and benefit from visiting an animal sanctuary too! Here is 4 reasons why to go on an “adult field trip” to an animal sanctuary.
1. GREAT FOR YOUR MIND.
Life is full of to-do lists, deadlines, working for hours without pause, and chasing the next big thing for most adults. All of which increase your stress load and impact your mental health. It’s easy to get caught up in all the hustle and bustle disregarding how it’s all (negatively) affecting your overall health. In “The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness (1973), American psychoanalyst Enrich Fromm coined Biophilia. Biophilia is a hypothesis that suggests that humans have an innate instinct to connect with nature and other living beings. Research shows a positive correlation between immersion in biophilic environments and improved cognitive function and mental health. Working all the time prevents us from receiving and exchanging these connections. So, when you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, take it as a sign to stop what your doing and immerse yourself in nature, in plants and animals! And what better place than the animal sanctuary, where you can see various wildlife.
2. GREAT FOR THE BODY.
Sitting all day and taking our daily traffic-filled commute to and from work can take a toll on our bodies that only exercise can remedy. And even though we need it, exercise might be the last thing on your mind after a strenuous day at work. Visiting an animal sanctuary might be just what you need to get you moving without the daunting sense of needing to exercise. It’ll be a workout for sure, but it’ll be fun! At the animal sanctuary, you’ll be so caught up with all that there is to see you won’t realize or mind how much walking you are doing. It is recommended that we walk at least 10,000 steps a day. We wouldn’t be surprised if you met your quota for an entire week in one visit. Not to mention, you’ll get the best sleep of your life afterward. Do you remember how exhausted you were after visiting an animal sanctuary? Yup, that’s a result of one effective exercise routine.
3. GREAT FOR YOUR FRIENDS.
It’s been a long week, but the weekend is finally here. You’re looking to destress and simultaneously keep up with your social life; an animal sanctuary is a perfect place to get the best of both worlds. Chances are your friends are just as wrapped up and caught up with all things worked-related and could use the benefits of visiting an animal sanctuary too. Plus, think back on your previous visit(s). Think about what made it such a magical experience. Naturally, your answer would be the wildlife. But don’t forget the thrill of exploring it all with someone alongside you, be it family or your schoolmates.
4. GREAT FOR US.
The Children’s Nature Retreat is an animal sanctuary located on 20 acres of stunning terrain approximately 40 minutes outside San Diego. We have 200+ domesticated livestock and exotic animals from around the world, of which many have been surrendered. Your support allows us to continue to support and provide for the animals. It’s a win-win all around.
Get away, satisfy that desire to connect with nature, get in that “workout,” and explore the wonders we have to offer with friends. For more information about our center, click here!