A farm in California is offering a one-of-a-kind approach to peace of mind. The Gentle Barn in Santa Clarita is offering cow hugging therapy sessions that allow you to de-stress, meditate with them and hug them.
Ellie Lax is the founder of Gentle Barn and helps rescue and rehabilitate abused and neglected animals. Six cows are available for hugging and the owners said they tend to snuggle deeply with people who really need it. Each of their cows also has a distinct personality.
"They are really large, so it’s not us doing the holding or the riding like with horses. It forces us to be in a very vulnerable open position while we feel humble," Lax told NBC San Diego. "We rest our cheeks on them and we close our eyes and feel their heartbeat which slows down ours."
The Gentle Barn offers one-hour sessions and private lessons. Lax said during the pandemic request for cow hugging therapy has increased. "We are in dark times," Lax said. "There’s a lot going on right now worldwide and I just want people to know that gentle barn is here for them."
Prices start at $200 and go up depending on whether you want cow hug sessions, private tours, or more. "We rolled out cow hug therapy sessions for hour long sessions to any individual that is suffering from anxiety, depression, isolation or just needs a good hug," said Lax.
Cow-hugging sessions are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.