Today’s episode is all about the lessons I have learned from my dogs and the dogs that I’ve loved. Many people have beautiful, close relationships with their animals, and if you are one of these people and have spent time observing and interacting with them, you will know that they are wonderful creatures with a lot of wisdom that we are not necessarily privy to. I am sure that the lessons I share today are not unique to me and many of you will be able to relate to my experiences. Among other things, my dogs have taught me to play more, to be curious about the world around me, and to make time for napping! When you pay attention, your dogs will show you a different side to life and connect you at a deeper level to the natural world. This episode is a must-listen for all dog lovers as I will be sharing some profound (and at times quirky) things that we can all learn from them.
Key Points From This Episode:
• Hear about the dogs that I have loved and cared for over the years.
• Kuna teaches me to play exuberantly and be joyful.
• Dogs show us that it is better to listen more and “speak” less.
• Our canine friends are great at being quiet and exploring the world around them.
• The importance of listening to people’s hearts and responding with empathy and love.
• Maddy taught me to be curious about everything and approach the world with wonder.
• We still have a great deal to discover in and about the world—make learning a priority.
• The medical evidence suggesting that naps have several health benefits.
• Guidelines for getting the most from your afternoon snooze.
• From dogs, we can learn to revel in the good stuff and extend joy to other people.
• We need to know when it is time to metaphorically run and do what needs to be done to make a change in the world.
• Dogs have surprising wisdom and insight—a lot of which people know little about.
Key Messages:
1. Play exuberantly and enjoy life.
2. Listen more than you speak.
3. Be curious.
4. Nap every day.
5. Revel in the good stuff.
6. Run when it is time to run.
7. Meander when it is time to meander.
8. There is wisdom in nature.
Quotables:
“Can we play more exuberantly? Can we just go for a run or play our sports or even a board game just for the joy of it? Without expectation, without hoping for an outcome or tracking our steps?” — Kristina Hunter [0:04:10]
“Bliss is the result of a silent conversation between me and my dog.” — Anonymous [0:04:55]
“Life is a succession of moments, to live each one is to succeed.” — Corita Kent [0:12:40]
“There is real wisdom in nature, in the natural world, and in our dogs and I feel that we are so lucky to glimpse at it and to learn from them.”— Kristina Hunter [0:19:51]
“All his life, he tried to be a good person. Many times, however, he failed. After all, he was only human. He wasn’t a dog.” — Charles M Schulz [0:23:39]
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Mayo Clinic (Napping Guidelines)
