Hello friends,
This is Christina.
As any pet owner knows,
The moment you commit to get up and start being productive is the exact moment your furry friend chooses to make themselves at home on your lap.
If you're reluctant to disturb them,
This practice will help you bring some mindful attention to the moment.
Let's get started.
If your pet has settled on to you,
It might be hard to get into a formal meditation posture,
And that's okay.
You can do this practice exactly as you are.
As we begin,
I invite you to notice the space your pet is occupying,
Whether it is beside you or directly on top of you.
Just take a moment to feel the physical sensation of their presence.
Notice how their weight feels and the solidness of their form.
Perhaps you can feel a sense of warmth or notice a heartbeat.
Sense into their energy.
Are they restless and looking for attention,
Or are they sleepy and looking for a place to settle?
Take a moment now to observe your pet.
If they have been with you for a while,
Perhaps you notice changes as they've grown.
Maybe they're bigger,
Or they may have spots of gray or white in their fur.
Perhaps they're heavier than they used to be,
Or maybe they've gotten a little thinner.
Like us,
Our pets are always changing.
Sometimes though,
We still carry a picture of them in our minds as to how they used to be.
So take a few moments now to enjoy sharing this unique moment with your pet.
As you're stroking your pet,
You may choose to close your eyes.
What can you notice about the physical sensation of their coat?
Is it soft or coarse,
Sleek or fluffy?
How do they respond to your touch?
Do they prefer soft pets or active scratches?
Are there parts of their body they prefer you to touch,
Or would they rather just sit quietly undisturbed by your side?
You might notice if they make a noise,
Or if they sit silently.
You may also notice how they react if you stop petting them.
Now I invite you to turn your attention to your own experience.
What physical sensations do you notice?
Perhaps you're beginning to feel relaxed,
Or maybe you feel a sense of discomfort if your pet has positioned themselves awkwardly.
What thoughts are arising?
You may notice a sense of contentment in this moment,
Or perhaps you're feeling restless and ready to get on with your day.
Whatever is present,
Just being aware without judgment.
Now taking a moment to reflect on the times you've shared with your pet,
Recalling the joy and unconditional love they bring into your life.
While our relationships with our fellow humans can be complicated,
The bonds we share with our pets can be one of our most pure connections.
To cement that bond,
Let's offer a few phrases of metta,
Or loving kindness,
To our pets.
May you be safe.
May you be healthy.
May you experience love.
May you be free from suffering.
Taking a few moments to extend these wishes to your pet,
And noticing how you feel as a result.
As we come to the end of our practice,
You may decide to continue snuggling with your pet,
Or you might find the tasks of the day call you onward.
As you go forward with your day,
I invite you to do so noticing how it feels to approach your pet with this focused and dedicated attention.
Thank you for joining me,
And I look forward to practicing with you again soon.
