Treat Yourself Like a Zoo Creature
This past weekend I went to the zoo, and honestly? It was such a treat for my inner six-year-old. 🦓🐒🦁
It had been at least 12 years since I’d last been, and I didn’t realize how overdue I was for that kind of joy. I went with my family including my young nephews, which made it even better — seeing the zoo through their eyes helped me relive my own childhood. I got to marvel at the animals, enjoy the sunshine, and even stop to investigate the plant life (because of course I did).
And yes, the zoo is overstimulating AF. The sounds, the crowds, the sensory overload — all of it. But this time, I came prepared. I had fidgets in my pockets so I could stim when I needed to, I took breaks, I made sure I was fed and hydrated, I wore comfy clothes, and I set myself up to have a genuinely good experience. And at the end? I let myself buy something from the gift shop, just because I could. Having my own money as an adult means I can say yes to little-me’s wishes now — and what a treat that was.
That day reminded me of something important: sometimes it’s okay — even necessary — to treat yourself like a zoo creature.
Think about it: the best zookeepers don’t just toss food in a cage. They create habitats where animals can thrive. They provide enrichment, safe spaces, stimulation, rest, and companionship. And isn’t that exactly what we need too?
🦥 Rest when you’re tired — nap like a sloth.
🐒 Play and engage with others — swing into joy when you can.
🦁 Move your body — stretch, roam, or bask in the sun.
🐿️ Feed yourself well — no skipping meals, no overeating until you blow up.
🐪 Stay hydrated — water close by at all times.
🦜 Stimulate your mind — work on learning new habits and skills slowly, gently, with curiosity.
Your body and mind are your enclosure. You get to be the zookeeper. Make sure you’re giving yourself the conditions you need to not just survive, but thrive.
Because when you do? Even the overstimulating, chaotic, noisy parts of life can turn into a freaking treat for your inner child.
