Comfort and Joy from Our Animal Friends

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I don’t know about you, but there are moments when I just feel this awe-inspiring tingling in me in the presence of my dogs.

When this happens, my heart leaps with love and joy.

One such moment happened this week as I was getting done with my yoga practice.

As is our routine, Gidget snuggles into her blanket on my large wicker chair in my writing cottage, as I roll out my yoga mat.

By the time I begin my practice, she is burrowed under  her blanket. The only evidence of a dachshund who has taken cover for a quick nap, is her darling little behind that sticks out.

Tuesday was no different from our routine as we both settled into the unfolding of the morning ritual.

As I came to the end of my practice, I sat cross-legged with my hands resting on my knees, my eyes closed, taking in all the calm and restoration that yoga brings me.

Having some worries on my mind lately, I was trying my best to just observe them and let them float away, assuring myself that life challenges always work themselves out.

I also silently ask for guidance or peace as I sit in my meditative pose if there is something I’m struggling with.

Today, as I opened my eyes after moving through some feelings and then putting my trust in Spirit, I opened them to the sweet face of Gidget — as if she was looking straight into my soul (I quickly grabbed my camera to get the shot above).

Normally she stays buried under her blanket and I have to gently nudge her, then pick her up to take her back in the house when I’m done with my practice.

But not this day. She was looking right into me. I felt this with every fiber of my being.

My heart melted. I just knew in that moment she was reaching out to me to assure me that all is well.

I felt a tranquil calm wash over my whole body, and my mind found a peaceful place to rest.

All this from a sprite of a dog — she brings me so much comfort and joy.