The bond they share is both extraordinary and lovely. <3
Interactions between humans and animals can be quite touching.
As humans, we share many similarities with our animal counterparts. One such similarity is our appreciation for socialization! Of course, everyone needs their own space at times, but most of us tend to do well when we are connecting with others.
It’s understandable why. Experiencing a feeling of acceptance is likely a universal desire. It doesn’t matter where that acceptance originates from, as long as we feel appreciated, we can expect someone to stay.
Another trait that we share with animals is our response to music. It’s incredible how animals also respond to melodies. Similar to humans, music has the power to make animals groove and even soothe them.
Although our music preferences differ, one fact remains; it’s tough to resist the calming effects of a sweet lullaby. Whether it’s a music box or a mother’s voice, it has a tranquilizing effect. Before you realize it, you’ll be fast asleep.
The individual who established Elephant Nature Park in Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand, knows precisely how to soothe their elephants.
Lek Chailert is the visionary behind the elephant haven. Elephant Nature Park is a sanctuary for rescuing and rehabilitating elephants, as well as other animals like cats and dogs!
Chailert’s efforts are genuinely transforming the lives of these animals. Since establishing the sanctuary in 1996, she has saved over 200 elephants in Thailand and its surroundings.
Her goal is to rescue elephants in critical need of assistance. As reported by CBS News, the elephants she rescues often suffer from severe psychological trauma. Some of them are malnourished, while others are blind. Some arrive with broken bones.
Chailert saves numerous elephants from the unlawful lodging industry, while others come from circuses. Despite the elephants’ traumatic experiences, Chailert’s sanctuary is making a tremendous impact.
“When they begin to roll in the mud, trumpet with joy, and swim in the river – that’s the day when I get teary-eyed… I shed tears of happiness,” she stated.
She has significantly impacted the lives of many elephants, but her connection with Faa Mai has gained a lot of attention.
Faa Mai is the initial elephant to be born freely in the sanctuary. It’s safe to say she’s a happy elephant, maybe even a little bit pampered!
Faa Mai is ten years old now, but in a viral video from May 2016, she was only seven years old, being lulled to sleep by Chailert’s beautiful melodies. Believe us when we say it’s delightful to watch Faa Mai become calm and relaxed upon hearing her voice.
Faa Mai draws Chailert closer as she begins to sing, which is quite amusing. Faa Mai uses her trunk to propel Chailert towards her chest. There’s no need to be concerned, though; Chailert is used to an elephant’s trunk.
Chailert then assumes control and leads Faa Mai to a sheltered area as intended. Faa Mai, as if on cue, starts to lay down. Chailert softly touches her with what appears to be a shirt or towel to relax her.
The plan is working! Faa Mai curls her trunk inward and begins to doze off. Chailert sits beside her and rests her head against Faa Mai’s. She even puts her arms around Faa Mai’s head and gives her a kiss as she unwinds.
Soon, other elephants join in to listen to the song. Faa Mai’s ears flutter back and forth to the sound of Chailert’s voice as she falls asleep.
