Cow hugging is the new yoga

Animals have long played an important role in the health of human beings.

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Studies show that owning pets such as cats and dogs can help decrease blood pressure and more.

And as we know every few months, sometimes even weeks, there's a new wellness craze sweeping the world.

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Now the latest one combines to things that no-one would have expected: hugs and cows.

Cow hugging or "koe knuffelen" originated in the small town of Reuver in the Netherlands.

But now, cow cuddling has gained popularity all across the world.

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José van Stralen started offering cow hugging sessions six years ago after hearing about it from other farmers.

Now you can find this new form of therapy being offered across farms in Switzerland and the United States.

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But how does hugging affect the cow and the human?

Apparently, by holding on to the cow, the warmer body temperature and lower heartbeat promotes positivity and boosts oxytocin levels in humans, which reduces stress.

And the cow enjoys it as well.

Main image courtesy of Twitter