Paws to Meditate

Meditating with your pet is good for the health and wellness of both of you!

Meditation can relieve stress -- for you and for your pet.

"It's a terrific way to bond, and it's good for the health and well-being of both of you," says James Jacobson, author of How to Meditate with Your Dog.

And teaching Spot to find his inner stillness isn't as difficult as it may seem: Sit with your pet on your lap or next to you. Put one or both hands on him. Shut your eyes, breathe deeply and empty your mind.

The key is to do it consistently, say, each night after dinner. Don't be discouraged if your pet scampers away -- just keep trying to establish the ritual. And don't expect too much. "Cats are very good at teaching us how to give up expectations," says Jacobson. Now, was that a "meow" or an "om"?

From Reader's Digest - May 2006

 

• Your Pets
• Family Life
• • Mind & Body

• Does Your Pet Need a Massage?
• Pets in need of medical treatment may benefit from acupuncture and touch therapy.
• 
• Keep Pets Fresh and Clean
• Natural ways to skip a trip to the groomer.
• 
• Hero Pets
• We asked for your stories. Here are our picks for best in show.
• 

“ Boot shopping? When sizing, allow room for an extra pair of socks. If boots are too tight, feet can become colder. ”

• See All Tips