Random... has anyone else experienced anything like this?
I was feeling a little low couped up in my flat working from home on a hot sunny day so I decided to go for a walk. So on the way to the local river I have to walk across a field. I enjoy photography but currently only use my mobile. In the distance were a herd of diary cows grazing. So I slowly walked up and started taking a few shots. To my surprise they came so close I could touch them but really oddly I felt an amazing connection and calmness! After I realised they weren't going to trample on me or eat me alive, I was so relaxed π.
Whether I was just enjoying the moment or something deeper I just loved it. I left feeling so much more uplifted in my mood. Attached is one of my photos.
Update: Since posting this I've done some further reading. Go try it for yourselves (with all relevant precautions, as I certainly wouldn't want any come back if anyone got injured) and see how you get on. But be respectful, calm and quiet. It's good to spread some positivity on here as so many are going through a tough time!!
Written by
Rayblade900
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Hi Hb2003, I've often heard nature and outdoors is good for mental health but this was a strange deeper connection (I'm not a tree hugging looney either) π€£I've never experienced anything like this before. It's like they were helping me mentally... weired!
True story Ken thereβs cows in the field next door to me alternate with sheep anyway there used to be one called poppy used to run along the fence and I would give it the last of my coffeeβ¦.and must admit was better company than some 2 legged ones β¦..good luck tomorrow
Animals can be very sensitive to the needs of humans and cows are by no means stupid. In my opinion it is possible that the cows sensed a need in you and perhaps, without too much conscious thought, tried to fill it. Go visit them again! They will get to know you.
Hi b1b1b1, I did a little reading after I posted this on here and you are right about cows not being stupid. I will go back and apparently they have great memories and can recognise you. If I had more free time I'd seriously volunteer to help the local farmer.
To Rayblade, Just beware in case there is not also a bull in the field, he might not be so calm or calming! I speak as someone who grew up on a farm, and my husband had cows until recently . Now just calves and cattle who wouldnt be as placid.
Not all cows are placid at all mind you. I used to rub the quieter ones and it was comforting. They did seem to enjoy being rubbed Growing up on a very small farm- about 12 cows, l had names for them- Jenny and Daisy 2 I can remember.
Both growing up and living here I used to find the long, slow journey bringing them in for milking boring. Now l realise l could have used it mindfully.
Mind you sometimes one or two might suddenly unleash liquid of the brown smelly type back onto you which was not at all pleasant!
Hi Roxylox and thank you for the advice and info.I did actually look for a bull before I went over as you rightly point out they may not be so affable.
I'm also aware of the protective nature Mum's would be with a young calve so equally respectful.
Cows are usually pretty chill, and curious but not in a threatening way. I always stop to say hello if Iβm out on my bike and have the time. Have you seen the farmer on YouTube who plays the trombone for his cattle? They come and listen.
Hi propjock. I searched and found a video called "Serenading the cattle with my trombone (Lorde Royals)". Absolutely brilliant! Are you sure the cows were listening, or saying "do you mind, that racket is disturbing the peace!"
It's interesting that whatever you search for on the web, there's always a negative! Read that people have been attacked and died by cows (although a minority). I suspect that they (the cows) were protecting the young or that it may have been an irresponsible dog owner and spooked? The positives outweigh the negatives and most people like you say they are friendly curious animals. I for one will definitely be going back for another "free therapy session"!
ππ
I tried to milk and a cow once very embarrassing the farmer said sorry son that's no cow that's a bull. I won't go on ππ€£π
Hi wbiC, I did a google search and apparently in Holland "Cow Cuddling" is a big thing and being promoted as a form of "wellness therapy" for mental health. I did not even touch the cows as not growing up in the country I am certainly not experienced around livestock. However, I also read that they actually enjoy being fussed over (I suppose who doesn't
ππ). I was respectful but also the only person around so just me and them, which was superb.
Can I add a note of caution, please don't try this with beef cattle, especially when they have calves around. If you have a dog, avoid the field entirely. They have been known to trample dog walkers and their dogs.
Cattle with calves at foot are the opposite to dairy cattle,whose calves are reared separately. They are very protective and can be really dangerous!
It's just that so many folk: a. can't tell the difference between beef cattle and dairy cattle, and: b. are totally ignorant about letting their dogs off the lead in pastures.
With so many holidaying in the country this year, it's just a matter of time before someone gets hurt, or a farmer shoots their dog for stock worrying. Sheep worrying is already high this year.
That's a fair comment. I'm certainly no country boy but know the difference and I do not own a dog. Sadly it's a broader conversation and not one to open up here as wanting to share my "positive experience". I agree with you though.
Rain storms are my peaceful calming thing. It gives me that inner peace
When I see a cow I think of how tasty said bovine would be on the old grill with a slice of cheese melting on top. π€ͺπ€£π Sorry about that I know I'm going to ruffle someone's feathers with that post.
Hi Ray. Great pic. I get where you are coming from about cows. Having previously been very wary of them I was once introduced to some by a friend who wasn`t afraid at all. I soon saw their beauty and my fear evaporated. Those long eyelashes and such gentleness. I think they can be great teachers of calm - mooving so slowly whilst they chew on some grass! This week in particular i have met with several animals who have certainly lifted my spirit and made me smile.
Hi Jay20. Thanks for your reply. If this helps even one more sufferer then brilliant. I know a lot of people find dogs great company and soul mates, but this felt more of a connection... very weird. I'm not spiritual at all but whatever it was, it was very powerful for me.
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