Dani Norlund, LAMP, SAAP

So much is going on in our lives and the world these days. Connecting with our animals in intentional ways may be a way to recenter and experience a renewed sense of balance and connection, as well as deepening the connection(s) we have to the animals we live with or have in our lives (in the case of equine).

It can also be helpful to know that when stress hits, and we find ourselves a bit off kilter, it can help to tune into your animal(s) even more. Let them help you be present and in the moment. And incorporating touch into the process will enhance this – for both you and them.

Here’s a little experiment on feeling:

• Touch your animal with the back of your hand and experience that for a few minutes (it can feel like a long time!).
• Now touch them with your palm…and experience that.
• How does each experience feel inside your body?
• How does your animal respond?

There are no right or wrong answers here. It’s an exercise on ‘tuning in’. Which is the whole point in itself.

Whether you feel it yet or not, you can know that there is a subtly different effect for your animal depending on which part of your body you use to touch them. Back of hand, palm, finger tips, forearm, and one hand or two hands.

There are many, many variations to play with to find what your animal likes, and where. For example, maybe they prefer a different form of contact on their back vs their belly. Or on a “good” hip vs. a “bad” hip. Gently explore and see what you discover with this calming and nurturing activity…try it with all your animals if you have more than one! Each animal has their own preferences, likes, dislikes, etc.

May you take joy in your continued curiosity and experimentation with touch and connection with your animal(s)!