Pause with Paws - Activity 1 : Walk like A dog

If you've ever imagined being on all fours, marking your territory in the neighborhood, or chasing squirrels, lizards, or cats, I'm glad I could entertain you with that thought. Clearly, that's not what I meant by "Walk like a dog" :-)

One of the key lessons in “A New Earth” is the advantage of observing nature without labeling it. For instance, when you look at a flower without labeling it and observe it as if you're seeing it for the first time, you realize there's more to it than just its physical form. Observing its stillness can lead you to a place of stillness within yourself. This is similar to the feeling you get when watching your pet sleep peacefully. It brings an inexplicable sense of peace and happiness. Considering the number of sleeping pet pictures we have on our phones, it's clear how much we love watching their peaceful, cute faces as they sleep and our desire to experience that state of being.

What if we apply this mindset to another activity with our pet? Walking a dog is a perfect opportunity to practice this. Dogs get incredibly excited for walks, even if it's the same route every time. They act as if they're experiencing it for the first time, stopping to sniff the same bushes, with their decision to mark them changing daily. What if we joined in during walks and interacted with nature as our pets do? Not by marking or chasing, of course :-) What if we focused on the sounds around us—like birds chirping or even the sound of vehicles—without labeling them? Instead of identifying the sound as from a vehicle or a specific bird species, just observe it. Observe the plants, flowers, and trees without any preconceived notions. This can bring you to a place of inner stillness. There's nothing to analyze or prove, so just go with the flow, walking as if you're on vacation in a different city. Just like a dog does. Still with me?

The aim of this practice is to set yourself up for success, so try it when conditions are ideal for exploring this activity.

how frequently should I practice this ?

You have the option to do this daily or on days when your schedule is lighter, based on how you feel. It's often said that it takes 21 days of dedication to alter a habit, so consider trying that. It's completely okay if you're not prepared for it right now. Simply practice it whenever possible.

What if I cant stay in this state for the whole walk ?

You could start by doing it for a few minutes during your walk and gradually extend the duration over time. I understand that not everyone has a flexible schedule, and sometimes you may want to rush through the walk. Try slowing down at spots where your pet is usually curious and pauses to sniff. Use that opportunity to practice stillness. This way, what once felt like wasted time will become the most enjoyable part of the walk for both you and your furry friend.

I am a cat person and would love a similar experience

When indoors, you can relax in their catio or gaze out the window with your cat, simply watching the world without labeling it. If you see them outside, greet them and take in the surroundings without labeling, enjoying the tranquility. Unless, of course, they say, "Mom/Dad, don't embarrass me in front of my friends." In that case, you should leave immediately. Just kidding!

Tip for going back to practicing the state of Being , if you get distracted

If you notice your mind drifting to past or future events, even something as simple as needing to take the next right turn, redirect your focus back to your anchor.

My anchor is my dog; I listen to his panting or the sound of his tags. Eckhart suggests several anchors, including the question, "Am I still breathing?" Since you continuously breathe while alive, this question helps you become aware of your breathing, allowing you to focus on it for a while. Simply observe your breath as it flows in and out, and notice the sensations it creates in your nostrils, chest, or stomach. You can continue with this or, when you feel ready, try observing your surroundings again without labeling them.

Dog walks have never felt like a chore to me. I've always used them as a time to connect with my dogs. However, I've also enjoyed walking with others or checking my phone (until Brad expressed his opinion on it; I still do occasionally, but it's rare. Since I started practicing this mindfulness, even the bushes and hedges appear different each time, and walks have become meditative and energizing. The road I travel daily, multiple times a day, feels like a new path. Walking like a dog is enjoyable!

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