A Practice of Mindfulness for Animals & their Humans

WHY Practice Mindfulness?

SIX proven BENEFITS of mindfulness for you and your companion animal

  • IMPROVES WELL-BEING by diminishing negative feelings.
  • REDUCES STRESS & ANXIETY by reducing emotional reactivity.
  • REDUCES ACHES & PAINS by soothing the brain patterns underlying pain.
  • BOLSTERS IMMUNE SYSTEM by boosting antibodies.
  • IMPROVES FOCUS by reducing distractions in the mind.
  • IMPROVES COMMUNICATION between you & your pet by making you an empathetic observer & listener.

Mindfulness opens our hearts and minds to the world unfolding right before us.

Mindful Sitting Meditation with your Dog

Mindful Sitting Meditation with your dog is a simple form of meditation during which we sit quietly, for a set period of time, settling our attention in the present moment, without judgment or struggle. Breath or sensations in the body are used as anchors to present moment awareness. The practice itself involves simply noticing, being with, and accepting the sensations of both the body and the mind. When the mind wanders, and it will, the practice is to gently guide yourself back to the present and simply begin again

Sitting meditation is an opportunity to practice acceptance, patience, non-striving, trust, openness, letting go, curiosity, gratitude, and kindness.

The power of meditation is made greater with the love of your dog.

Mindful Sitting Meditation with your Dog

Instructions for Practice

When & Where

• Choose a time when you can dedicated 15-20 minutes of uninterrupted time.

• Find a quiet place and comfortable position with your dog by your side.

 

Before You Start

• Place your hand on your dog and feel the rise & fall of their chest.

• Close your eyes, take a few slow & deep breaths. In through the nose out through the mouth.

• Settle into the quiet around you and relax your body.

 

Begin Your Mediation

• Tune in and notice how your breathing beings to sync with your dog’s breath.

• Acknowledge feelings & thoughts present and allow them to come and go without judgement.

• If the mind wanders with distractions, reset by bringing your attention and breath back to your dog. This will happen less and less with practice.

 

Wrapping Up

• Finish the session by gently stroking your dog and offering some kind words to yourself and your companion.