Yes, Meditation With Your Pet is a Real Thing—And it Can Help Them Too
Believe it or not, pet meditation exists—and it’s a lot easier than it sounds. In fact, if you’ve ever sat quietly with your dog or cat, mindlessly petting them while zoning out, you’ve probably already done it without even realizing.
At its core, meditation is about taking a few minutes to be present. It’s about tuning in to your breath, your senses, the movement of your body, the soundscape around you—anything that anchors you in the now. You silence the mental noise, unplug from the stress, and reset. With pet meditation, the only real difference is that you’re doing it with your furry companion curled up beside you.
Think back: have you ever found yourself staring off into space, stroking your dog or cat, and suddenly felt your whole body relax? That’s it. That’s the whole idea. A shared moment of calm. And it’s one of the many reasons psychologists say pets make our lives better. Beyond their loyalty and entertainment value, they’re powerful agents of emotional grounding.
So how do you actually do it?
According to Dr. Chris Mosunic, it’s refreshingly simple. Just find a comfortable spot—sitting or lying down—and invite your pet to join you (though chances are, they’ll already be close by). Breathe deeply through your nose, pause, then exhale slowly through your mouth. Keep going at your own pace, for as long as it feels good. You can rest a hand on their body, sync your breathing with theirs, or focus on the feel of their fur under your fingers. Let that tactile sensation guide your awareness and calm your mind.
And here’s the best part: it’s not just good for you. It’s good for them, too.
If your pet is anxious or high-strung, adding soft phrases like “You’re safe,” “I love you,” and “We’re calm together” can have a soothing effect. Over time, they’ll start to associate these quiet rituals with safety and connection, creating a ripple effect that lasts throughout their day.
So next time you need a mental breather, don’t go it alone. Grab your dog. Call your cat. Sit down, breathe, and just be. It’s a simple act of presence—for you and for them. And honestly? It might become your favorite part of the day.
First published on revistagq.com
