Mindfulness With Your Pup
Presented by Alexia Lalos
Where to start! Make sure you and your dog are already in a comfortable space. You can start by seeing if your pup wants to be touched or if they'd rather just sit with you! Think of mindfulness and massage practices as an energy transfer or therapy session for both you and your furbaby!
Introducing mindfulness and massage!
Relaxation is the goal! Prioritize consent and comfort for the dog. Try practicing tracing their muscles gently with your fingers. You can then try more advanced techniques if your dog is already calm such as increasing pressure or different massage sequences. Be sure to read their body language and notice any flinches in their skin or within their muscles, as this could be an area to focus on or bring up at your next vet visit. Especially in older dogs. Start short and sweet, unless your pup is begging you for more! Begin with simple techniques for connecting deeply with your dog; pet your pooch for 3 seconds and pull away; if your pup leans in, you're good to keep going! If your pup licks at you frantically or stiffens, remove your hand and simply sigh to release that tension and drop your shoulders, loosening your body language and simply sit by your dog. No forced interaction, just a soft gaze from you, soothing music or matching your breathing with your dog's.
Benefits! Massages can help address physical and mental issues; it can help with exposure to touch and create a positive association for dogs with touch sensitivity. The intention of mindfulness practices can really enhance the bond between you and your pup.
Other Animals!
Mindfulness can benefit cats and rodents. As cats, rodents and even birds are very delicate structurally, mindfulness can be a great way to connect with your pet mentally and spiritually. Mindfulness and massage practices reduce stress within human beings; it makes sense to include them in these relaxation practices that can benefit their lives and ours while simultaneously strengthening your bond.
Sources : www.aniedireland.com/2019/02/13/day-38-hanging-out-massage-mindfulness/ www.calm.com/blog/dog-meditation
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