Buddha Nature

Two of the best activities before sleep are Yoga and Meditation. I am noticeably different after I take the time out to clear my mind and loosen my limbs. Better breathing actually invokes a type of euphoria that feels  remarkable. The dogs typically follow me into the room when I decide to take this time for myself. Buddha lays down by my mat and really looks into my eyes and tries to figure out what I am doing. He has a sort of peace that I want when I am meditating. Buddha didn't get his name by mistake. Instead, Buddha truly has an aura of peace about him and his eyes exude positive energy. It might sound odd but I think that I have learned a lot from my dogs on the concept of slowing down and taking it easy.

I am a type A personality and I am always on the go, go, GO! A lot of times I sit on the ground and look at the dogs who are always living in the moment. Simba's reaction to my Yoga practice is mischievous indifference. There are times when he comes and tries to chew on the mat, bats at my leg when I'm moving through poses or sighs heavily with a judgmental look. Simba is very much like my monkey mind. He is always bouncing around, bored or overloaded. Simba proves to be a challenge at times and his presence is a constant reminder that life is not easy. We can't all have the Buddha nature. It must be cultivated. Usually, we have to fight through chaos in order to find a moment of zen. I'm lucky to have both these pups because they balance me, ground me and bring back to the moment.