human-animal bond
The second part is the emotional side.“ Animals need touch, socialisation with other animals and interaction with humans. They need stimulation. You have to understand those particular needs,” she says.
But as we take care of our pets’ physical and emotional lives, we as humans also feel the benefits.“ There have been many scientific studies showing how animals help settle our nervous systems, lower blood pressure, and increase serotonin levels,” explains Jacqui.
We live in a world where both children and adults are under so much pressure. Social media hasn’ t made things easier. People constantly feel judged, but animals give us a relationship where we don’ t feel judged.“ They make us feel accepted. They love you because you are you, not because of what you have or what you look like. I think all of those things are part of mindfulness.”
Practising mindfulness with your pet
Jacqui offers these simple, mindful ways to connect with your furry companions.
1. Start with care Make sure your pet’ s basic needs are met. Feed them, keep their water bowls full, and ensure they’ re comfortable.“ In winter, if you’ re cold, they probably are too – a cosy jersey can make all the difference.”
2. Create comfort in all weather Think about their environment. On rainy days, make sure they can move easily in and out of the house. Mindfulness means anticipating their needs and adjusting their space so they feel safe and cared for.
3. Begin your day with intention Start your morning with a shared ritual.“ Whether it’ s putting on your dog’ s jersey, sitting together, or letting them curl up on your lap – be present.” These small acts set the tone for a mindful day.
4. Engage fully Don’ t just go through the motions. Touch them, sit with them, and interact in ways that fulfil both their needs and yours.“ Life becomes so much better when we actually pay attention to the little things instead of rushing through the day thinking only about work and responsibilities.”
5. Greet them properly“ When you get home from work, take a moment to greet your pets properly, let them outside, or clip on the lead for a walk.” That intentional pause strengthens your bond.
6. Walk with presence Walking isn’ t just exercise – it’ s an experience.“ Let your dog stop and sniff; that’ s their joy and stimulation. As they explore, you get a chance to breathe, relax, and reset your mind.”
7. Share the joy Even when you’ re tired, notice how their excitement lifts your mood. A walk becomes fresh air, exercise, and connection – with your pet, with nature, and even with other people you meet along the way.
“ Mindfulness is about doing everything with intention,” says Jacqui. Be mindful of the small moments: sitting on the couch watching TV while your pet lies next to you, stroking them – just being present in that moment.
“ They see you as their whole world, and you need to savour that,” she adds. Our animals won’ t live forever, so we need to enjoy every little moment with them.“ Let them add value to our lives, and make sure we add value to theirs, too.”
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