Animal break: How Little Joe Koblenz students takes the stress

Animal break: How Little Joe Koblenz students takes the stress

by Kim Fauss

28. August 2024, 6:00 a.m.

In the Koblenz State Library Center, students found a very special approach to deal with the stress during the examination phase. Not only books and learning materials are used here, but also the four -legged friend Little Joe, an educational accompanying dog that makes the breaks in learning more pleasant and relaxed. This animal intervention aims to bring a little rest into the everyday work of the students.

Especially in times when theses are pending, many young people experience enormous stress. Bianca Zientek, a 25-year-old student, is currently busy with her master's thesis and decided to take the animal with Little Joe for the animal learning break. "I just wanted to escape the university stress for 20 minutes," she explains as she caresses the dog. Such short breaks in learning can often work wonders to recharge their batteries and motivation.

stress reduction by animal society

The idea behind these breaks is simple: the interaction with dogs can contribute significantly to coping with stress. Scientific studies have shown that contact with animals has a positive effect on the production of hormones that are responsible for relaxation and well -being. Little Joe is a specially trained dog, the calming presence of which gives many students a feeling of security and security.

Little Joe, a mixed breed dog, has proven to be a true talent smell when it comes to loosening the atmosphere in the library. During the 20-minute cuddly lessons, the students not only have the opportunity to deal with the dog, but also to take a deep breath and get the head free.

The reactions of the participants are consistently positive. "I have the feeling that I am much more concentrated afterwards," says Bianca and adds: "It is incredible how much better I feel with the dog after a short time." Such short sessions are not only a welcome change, they also promote the general well -being of the students. Stress that arises from the intensive learning can be alleviated.

flair of the library paired with animal support

The concept is simple, but effective. The convenience of the environment in which these learning breaks take place is important. In the LBZ Koblenz, a place known for its calm atmosphere, the participants can immerse themselves in the relaxing company of Little Joe. One could almost say that the combination of the typical "library flair" and the soft fur nose is the perfect recipe for exam stress.

Of course, every animal has its own personality, and Little Joe also convinces with its gentle way and its sociable character. The dog owner who offers this service explains: "The effect of dogs on humans is fascinating, especially in stressful situations. They help to reduce tensions and promote a feeling of calm."

This animal -assisted activity once again shows how important it is to pay attention to your own well -being in the learning phase and to find ways to reduce the associated tension. The combination of education and animal support seems to be a clever step in order to better counter the challenges of the UniLeben.

a new trend for students

The practice of animal -assisted intervention increases in many educational institutions worldwide. With the introduction of such learning breaks, the LBZ Koblenz sets a sign and shows how important it is to give space to creative methods for coping with stress that offer students a certain balance. Program items such as this could be a model for other institutions that determine similar needs among their learners.

effect of animals on mental health

The advantages of animals, especially dogs, for mental health are well documented. Studies show that contact with animals can reduce stress, relieve depressive symptoms and increase general well -being. According to an investigation of the World organization for animal welfare spend people who regularly spend time with pets, less time and are emotionally more stable.

Especially in highly stressful environments, such as students, interaction with a dog can have a therapeutic effect. The physical closeness to an animal stimulates the release of hormones such as oxytocin, which causes a feeling of security and relaxation. This hormone not only has a reducing effect, but also promotes social bonds.

program information from the LBZ Koblenz

The State Library Center in Koblenz has recognized how important breaks and relaxation are for the students. The initiative to work with a pedagogical accompanying dog like Little Joe is part of a more comprehensive approach to promoting mental health. In addition to the learning breaks, the LBZ also offers workshops and seminars for coping with stress and time management. The events are open to all students and should help them develop more effective learning and relaxation strategies.

More offers for coping with stress

  • yoga and meditation courses
  • workshops to improve study methods
  • advisory services for mental health

These combined measures are designed to promote a healthy balance between studying and leisure, which is particularly important in the stressful examination time.