Editor Letter For May 2024: Wellness is a Cat in Your Lap

I can’t remember a time there wasn’t a cat in my life.

My earliest memory is of a friendly ginger cat named Peaches, who roamed our property when I was in elementary school. My family lived in rural Michigan at the time, and we had a menagerie of animals—chickens, ducks, rabbits and dogs—but I always gravitated to cats. Peaches gave a lot of love, and I was happy to lavish her with my affection. Studies have shown that interaction with cats (and most animals, I imagine) can help to reduce stress, anxiety and blood pressure. It also promotes better sleep.

Most intriguing, however, is a report I read recently that said cats purr at the same frequency known to speed up the healing process of broken bones and other injuries. Purring also releases endorphins in cats, so petting a cat is good for all involved.

My cat Cupid (also a ginger kitty) is a master at providing well-being. She’s in the window waiting for me after work. When my husband and I sit down to watch a movie, she lounges behind me on the couch with her paw on my head. If my hair is a little sweaty, that’s even better, and she treats me to a tongue bath.

But the best thing is Cupid’s morning routine. When she senses I’m awake, she climbs up next to me, hunkers down on my arms and licks my face. Who needs a beauty regimen with this type of exfoliation!

Cupid is the unabashed ruler of our household and has taught me many things. e most important: Be who you are, unapologetically.

That’s a good mantra to repeat to ourselves daily, especially with the challenges of today’s world. You’ll find additional such messages in this, our Wellness Issue.

We look at a number of different areas: mental health, financial health and environmental wellness, and take a look at some of the equine-assisted therapy programs around town. We share the results of our March Madness-style spa bracket, in which readers voted for their favorites spas in town.

Also, you won’t want to miss our inspiring Women of the Year. These ladies come from all walks of life and are a true force in making our community a better place. Our honorees were nominated by their peers, and we’re fortunate to have such an esteemed group in our city. When you’re out and about in Orlando, take the time to steal little moments, such as smelling the flowers, marveling at a piece of architecture or just reveling in a slight breeze. Let’s have our wellness in small bites throughout the day.

And if you see a cat, pet it!