Saturday, December 18, 2010

Indulgence for Distraction

Today I will be hosting a birthday party for my dogs who just turned a year old.  Eccentric?...maybe, but I saw in this occasion the opportunity to provide much needed distraction and levity from a rather challenging year.  
So, planning began as well as the shopping (yes I know, it is Holiday season and shopping is already nuts) - banner, streamers, plates, party hats...and then there was the baking, yes, baking.  

My kitchen is frequently covered in oat flour and molasses due to the demands of a growing organic pet treat business however, somehow, this was different.  As much as I love baking pet treats this time I NEEDED to - I needed the creative challenge of "winging" a recipe, I needed the whir of the blender, I needed to knead the dough and carefully place the cut shapes onto the baking sheets.  I needed to disappear into the depth of a task and come out the other end, covered in flour and peanut butter and molasses and a huge smile.  

Can this personal indulgence really give my spirit the boost it needs?  Well, the doggy ice cream is setting, the cookies are attractively placed on platters, the decorations are up, and I am smiling.  You decide.

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Pets Benefit from Reiki Treatments

What is reiki for animals?

Reiki translates as universal life energy and is an amazing energy healing method that originated in Japan. It is offered as an alternative treatment in hospitals such as M.D. Anderson. While it has mainly been used for healing people, in more recent years, those who have learned reiki have realized how beneficial this healing system could be to their own pets and other animals.

What are the benefits of reiki for pets?

  • Because reiki is healing energy, it will never harm you or your pet.

  • It can be given to any type of animal.

  • If your pet has emotional problems due to a traumatic situation such as abuse, neglect, or being hit by a car, reiki can help release and heal those emotions.

  • For behavioral issues such as nervousness or hyperactivity, reiki can help your pet relax and reduce their stress and anxiety.

  • If your pet is sick or injured, reiki can help your pet heal more quickly. If your pet is facing a serious illness, reiki can help bring comfort and be a great compliment to conventional treatment.

  • If your beloved pet is dying, reiki for animals can help bring peace and comfort to you and your pet during this difficult time. It really seems to help them relax so they are not afraid and struggling to stay a part of our lives.
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