Meditate With Your Dog
Introducing Dog Meditation - What it is and why it's important
If you’re looking for a way to connect with your pet on a deeper level, dog meditation may be just the thing.
Dog meditation is an ancient practice that helps us humans and our furry friends relax and be mindful of each other.
It can also help build trust between human and canine companions while providing numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits for both species. Read on to learn more about this powerful practice!
Understanding How Dogs Naturally Meditate
Dogs naturally meditate, though you may never have called it that. Dogs are naturally very attuned to their environments and the energy around them, so they can easily pick up on subtle cues from you while they’re meditating. These are often the moments we see them soaking in sunshine, relaxing without sleeping, or simply feeling the breeze on their faces, sniffing the wind. There is no need to interrupt when you make these observations — just let them be. Though this may be a remind to you to pause for a few moments and become aware of your own inner thoughts and feelings.
I’m always saddened with I see dogs in my training programs that don’t know how to do this. They seem always on high alert and unable to relax. I call it not knowing how to dog.
So we may need to help them learn.
Other times you may find the benefit of mediation with your dog is when they are anxious, worried, struggling with trauma or grief, lack trust in changes around them, and so on.
Benefits of Meditating with Your Dog
The benefits of meditating with your dog are immense. This practice can help calm down anxious animals, as well as people. Meditating with dogs can also improve focus and concentration—two things that are especially important for training and obedience work. Additionally, this type of meditation is a great way to bond with your canine companion. By meditating together, you’ll be able to create a deeper connection and understanding between the two of you.
How to Prepare for a Dog Meditation Session
Before beginning any type of meditation session with your dog, it’s important to take some time to prepare first.
Turn off your phone. Turn off the TV.
Consider getting out your essential oils.
Make sure that both you and your pet are comfortable in the environment where you plan to meditate. This could mean finding a quiet room in your house, or even taking your dog outside to meditate. Outside in the sunshine is my favorite place for these activities.
For those dogs that are reluctant to try this new activity, don’t worry. Stick with it and let the process work over time. If your dog gets up and moves away from you during the meditation, don’t try to stop him. Just continue the process. This may be a new “energy” experience for you both. It may take some time to align — that’s the whole point.
Steps for Guided Dog Meditation
Once you’re both settled in and relaxed, it’s time to begin! As you settle into a comfortable position with your furry friend by your side, take a deep breath in and slowly release it. Allow yourself to fully relax and clear your mind of any distractions.
Bring your attention to your dog's presence, noticing the warmth and the softness of their fur. Visualize a peaceful and safe environment surrounding the both of you, a serene oasis where you can fully let go and connect with your pet.
As you breathe in, imagine a calming light entering your body, soothing any tension or stress you may be holding onto. Feel the warmth of this light spreading throughout your body and into your dog's as well, creating a sense of calm and trust.
Take a moment to acknowledge any emotions or thoughts that come to mind, observing them without judgment or attachment. Allow yourself to fully release any negative energy and focus on the present moment.
Now, envision a beautiful bond forming between you and your furry companion, a deep connection grounded in love and understanding. As you continue to breathe in this peaceful environment, feel the love and gratitude radiating between the two of you.
Speak positive affirmations over your dog. Speak the intention of the relationship you want with your dog and happy life for your dog.
As the meditation comes to a close, take a few deep breaths and thank your pet for sharing this sacred moment with you. Visualize this bond growing stronger with each meditation session, bringing mutual trust and relaxation into your lives.
Remember to approach this practice with patience and consistency, and above all, with love for your furry friend. They will undoubtedly benefit from this guided meditation as much as you will. Enjoy this peaceful moment together.
Dog meditation is a beautiful way to deepen the bond between you and your canine companion. Not only does it give both species the opportunity to relax, but it can also provide numerous benefits, such as improved focus and trust. So why not give this ancient practice a try? With patience, consistency, and some gentle guidance, you’ll be well on your way to creating a deeper understanding between the two of you.
I encourage you to journal your experiences with your dog each time. You may just discover some amazing changes or start to feel your animal communicating back to you. Trust the experience.