Reclining Cat

Languidly reclining, but still alert. Cats are amazing creatures.  At times their bodies are so limp when you pick them up it feels as if they have no bones at all...and other times they instantly spring into action leaping to the top of a fence effortlessly.  It is as if they practice Zen breathing in and out, following their breath, they really get into it and begin to purr with abandon.  As I sit listening to my cat purring, it transports me away from my fears and worries to a place of deep peace and contentment.  Purring cats have been used as 'therapy animals' for a variety of purposes. . .to lower blood pressure and to reduce depression and anxiety and have a calming effect on children with autism or other physical or emotional problems. Purring cats who position themselves over a painful area on a human can reduce a person’s discomfort through the vibrations of their purring.  And, of course, the purring makes the cat feel better too.

Watercolor. 11"x14". 2004.