As 2025 kicks off, many of us are feeling the weight of everything happening in the world—whether it’s the climate, cosmic shifts, or the challenging times we’re living in. Anxiety seems to be at an all-time high, and it’s not just us—our dogs can feel it, too.
The good news? Our dogs are natural stress relievers and grounding companions. Here are a few ways to reduce stress together and reconnect to a sense of calm:
1. Meditate Together
After going through Hurricane Helene, I turned to Transcendental Meditation (TM) to find a sense of balance. Every time I meditate, our little 8-lb dog curls up in my lap, soaking in the calm energy. It’s a reminder of how sensitive and attuned our dogs are to our emotional state.
If TM doesn’t resonate with you, there are countless ways to meditate. I’m a big fan of Insight Timer (check it out here) for guided meditations, many of which are short and easy to fit into your day. Whether you’re sitting quietly or listening to a guided session, your dog will likely love sharing in the peaceful vibe.
2. Unplugged Nature Time
There’s something magical about leaving your phone at home and heading out for a walk with your dog. Without the distraction of notifications or the temptation to scroll, you can fully immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of nature.
For me, this is one of the most grounding practices. It’s a chance to breathe deeply, notice the world around me, and connect with my dogs in a way that feels simple yet profound. Nature has a way of healing, and our dogs seem to understand that instinctively.
3. Have a Dance Party
Feeling stressed or overwhelmed? Turn up your favorite music and dance it out! Dogs are masters at shaking off stress—they’ll literally give themselves a little shake after a stressful moment to reset.
Why not take a cue from them? Movement is one of the fastest ways to release tension and move energy through your body. Whenever we have a dance party in our house, our dogs love it—they wag their tails, jump around, and get in on the fun. Don’t be afraid to get silly and shake it out. You’ll feel lighter afterward!
4. Practice Deep Breathing or Gentle Yoga
Dogs often mirror our energy, so when we slow down and focus on calming our breath or practicing gentle movement, they tend to relax, too. Try a few minutes of deep breathing while lying on the floor with your dog, or roll out a yoga mat and let them curl up nearby as you stretch.
5. Create a Calm Space
Dedicate a quiet, cozy spot in your home where you and your dog can relax together. Add a comfy bed for your pup, a soft blanket, and maybe a diffuser with calming scents like lavender (make sure they’re dog-safe!). Spend a little time in this space each day, reading, journaling, or just sitting quietly with your dog.
Food is medicine
We strongly believe in the healing power of adaptogens and use them for our own wellness routine and for our pups. Our Balance + Calm treats are packed with superfoods to support relaxation and help your dog feel grounded during stressful times.
Here’s to finding ways to soak up more connection and reduce stress —for you and your furry best friend!