Adjusting to Life Changes
As summer dies down and autumn sneaks up, the green leaves prepare to change into new colors. Just like the leaves, we also face upcoming changes in our lives. Whether that be school for us or kids, starting a new job, loss of a job, the beautiful addition of new family members, the unfortunate and painful loss of very loved family members, injuries, or whatever it may be - adjusting to life changes can be very difficult. It can be even more difficult for our pets as they try to adjust to changes that they don’t understand.
The uncertainty that comes with life changes can be overwhelming and sometimes even consume us. It can take up to six months to fully readjust to a recent life change, though ongoing stressors can prolong this. Though, there are some things you can do to help smooth out this process and make things easier for you and your whole family.
Tips to Adjust
- Take a moment to breathe
- Self care
- Listen to some calming music
- Maintain some form of normalcy
- Look for what you can control
- Plan ahead
- Form a support system
- Be patient with yourself/family
- Nutrition
Tips for your Pet
- Discuss with their veterinarian
- Maintain a routine (as close to prior routine if possible)
- Nutrition
- Give them a comfort item (ie. shirt or blanket that smells like you) or play calming music
- Provide appropriate stimulation (puzzle toys, games, etc) for an energy outlet
- Provide a safe space
- Be patient with them
You can also use the Rezzimax Whole-Body De-stress protocol to stimulate your vagus nerve out of the sympathetic nervous system response into the parasympathetic “Rest and Digest” system. This is where your brain will gain the flexibility to deal with the stressors of these changes. We also have this protocol for dogs, cats, and horses! Contact Chelisa at chelisa@rezzipet.com for the Rezzipe Book where these protocols are found.
Wishing you the best on your health and wellness journey!
- Chelisa Atkinson