Has there ever been an animal that made you feel calmer or happier during a hard time?

A natural way to answer

When I went through a stressful period at work, walking my parents' dog every evening really helped. It got me out of my head and gave me a bit of space to breathe.

Key phrases to use

• take the edge off — make an unpleasant or stressful feeling slightly less intense“A short walk takes the edge off my stress.”
• keep me grounded — help you stay calm, sensible and connected to what matters“My family keeps me grounded when things get crazy.”
• get out of bed — leave your bed in the morning; (figuratively) find the energy to face the day“Some mornings I could barely get out of bed.”
• lift my spirits — make you feel happier and more hopeful“A walk in the sun always lifts my spirits.”