THE POWER OF THE PURR! For centuries, healers (including myself) have used the power of sound in their work. It is believed and there is scientific evidence that certain frequencies or tones of sound can have various healing effects on the body. Purring is absolutely a sign of relaxation and contentment, but it is so much more:  Purring releases endorphins in cats, and it can do the same thing in humans. Lowered stress hormones are helpful for healing, lowering blood pressure, and helping humans deal with illnesses and emotional challenges as well.  Cat purring has been shown to fall between 25 and 140 Hz. The same frequency has been shown to aid in the healing of broken bones, joint and tendon repair, and wound healing. Cats are well-known for their ability to heal quickly from their own broken bones, and the incidences of joint problems and bone cancer in cats are low. It’s possible that cat purrs can help humans heal faster, too.  Clinical observations of cats that are suffering from upper respiratory conditions resulting in trouble breathing, indicate that purring helps the cat breathe more easily. In fact, respiratory distress related to heart disease isn’t nearly as common in cats as it is in dogs and humans. A person with respiratory problems might also be able to breathe easier if a purring cat is nearby.  There are many stories of people with migraines whose headaches subside or are eliminated when they lie with their heads close to purring cats. I have found that cats also purr to heal their humans’ hearts on an emotional level. When my beloved Althea passed, my two darling kittens would lay on my chest and their purring would bring me great peace and comfort. They always seemed to know when I needed it the most!