WINDSOR, Maine — The holiday season is often associated with joy and celebration, but it can also be a source of stress for many. One farm in Windsor is offering a comforting remedy: animal therapy.
According to the National Institute of Health, interacting with animals can lower blood pressure and reduce stress levels—something that might be especially welcome during the hustle and bustle of winter holidays.
Anchor ME Farm in Windsor has taken this concept to heart, opening its doors for visitors seeking one-on-one time with goats, pigs, chickens, ducks, and other animals.
Chantelle Hay, a local who grew up surrounded by farm animals, recently visited the farm and found the experience to be uniquely calming.
"There's something that happens when you just take a chance to pet an animal," she shared, adding that the farm's focus on personal animal interactions is unlike anything she's experienced before.
The farm's founder, Cara Cribb, knows firsthand the healing power of animals. After a traumatic experience left her dealing with PTSD, Cribb sought out an animal-based therapy program but couldn't find one nearby.
"I couldn’t find the support I needed," Cribb explained. Instead of giving up, she decided to create her own program, which has since become a haven for people looking to unwind and reconnect.
While many farms slow down after Thanksgiving, Anchor ME Farm remains open during the holiday rush. Cribb said she recognizes the need for stress relief during what can be a difficult time of year.
"This time of year, there's precious few things that are not stressful," Cribb noted. "To be able to decompress with these guys has really got me through."
Recently gaining nonprofit status, the farm is focused on providing therapeutic services to the community. Visitors have described the sessions as a much-needed mental reset.
"A lot of people’s minds are kind of pedal to the metal," Cribb said. "Sometimes you just need to let go."
For many, connecting with animals offers a sense of comfort that's hard to replicate elsewhere.
"I think all of us kind of connect with animals in a way that’s really hard sometimes to connect with people," one visitor shared. "They're very soft and warm."
As the cold winter months settle in, that little bit of extra warmth might just be exactly what some people need.