@manasi.kakade: Argo, our first dog, came to us when he was 5 months old. He had no trauma so for him emotional regulation came easy. That combined with his personality as a Virgo Sun, he quickly adopted structures we set for him, and now helps us keep them up. He taught me, that sleep is a very important part of a dog's daily routine. He chooses his own sleep times and play times ever since he was a puppy. He gravitates to his bed, a cool, shaded spot in the house or in the yard for his naps during the day. On the other hand, Panda came to us when she was 2.5 years old. She had a LOT of trauma, but had still kept her spirit vibrant. Our job as her hoomans, was to facilitate her healing. She could not sleep well, was always alert. You could see her exhaustion from always being alert, anxious, and sleep deprived, in her eyes, lack of emotional regulation, and reactive vs. deliberate, responsive actions and decisions (Karma). She taught me, sleep is not just important but a necessary part of a dog's life. It's the only way they will be able to release cortisol built up over months or years, so that they can then slowly learn to regulate themselves. So I started teaching her emotional regulation through toys, and started "forcing" her to sleep by taking a nap with her, closing the curtains to reduce stimulation, closing the doors of the room, playing soothing music, podcasts etc. (yes, podcasts, 'Splendid Table' from NPR is her favorite. I think she likes Francis Lam's voice. 😄). She got it! She slowly learned it! And now she chooses her own methods that will help her sleep better. On some days, when curtains are open, or lights in the room are too bright for her liking, it includes shoving her face under a pillow. 😃 I am so, so psyched to witness her own emotional regulation and sleep hygiene. 💃💃💃 It's been 2 years with us. Panda is completely healed. She makes wonderful, regulated choices in daily life. No more a reactive dog. 💫 She has blossomed into her Anahata meaning unhurt self who is a goofy, playful, powerful, and extremely loving dog. Both Argo and Panda are my teachers and healers. Every single day, I feel grateful they chose me. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽❤️❤️❤️ #lessonsfromdogs #HealingJourney #sleepsupport #sleephygiene #PracticalSpirituality #importanceofrest

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Friday 08 August 2025 19:09:19 GMT