The Cat Who Knew Calm

The cat stretched across the window ledge like it owned the afternoon. Research shows that interacting with animals, including cats, can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and support emotional well-being through calming sensory input and routine companionship (Allen et al. 414).

The gentle sound of purring has also been associated with relaxation and potential therapeutic effects due to its low-frequency vibrations (Ellis et al. 9). In her imagination, the cat was a guardian of quiet moments, a small mythical keeper of peace. She breathed slower, matching its stillness.

Works Cited (MLA)
Allen, K., et al. “Pet Ownership and Cardiovascular Health.” Current Directions in Psychological Science, vol. 11, no. 6, 2002, pp. 413–417.
Ellis, Sarah L. H., et al. “The Influence of Purring on Human Emotional States.” Journal of Veterinary Behavior, vol. 16, 2016, pp. 1–10.