Category Archives: Meditation

Talking to veterinary students about mindfulness meditation

Posted on January 10, 2018 by downwarddogdvm

It was surreal to stand in the classroom where I’d been taught, more than 20 years ago, and speak about mindfulness meditation. The funny part was that the broken swivel chair in room 1714 was still causing problems! Ah, fond … Continue reading →

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Mental Health and Wellness in the Veterinary Profession

Posted on January 25, 2017 by downwarddogdvm

When someone asks me, “What do you do?” and I tell them I’m a small animal veterinarian, their eyes brighten.  Then they proceed to tell me their favourite story about their pet.  I’m grateful that the public perception of veterinarians … Continue reading →

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You are more tender than you know

Posted on November 1, 2016 by downwarddogdvm

I dreamt of meeting Jack Kornfield, in an alternate reality.  However, in the world of my dream, Jack was not Jack as he had come to be known.  He was still kind and gentle.  His mannerisms were the same.  But somehow, … Continue reading →

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What the Yin now?

Posted on May 16, 2016 by downwarddogdvm

It’s been a year of change and growth for my yoga practice and classes.  (Still trying to figure it all out…)  Thanks to Integrative Healing Arts Studio for hosting my Monday night Yin classes this winter.  Grateful to those who … Continue reading →

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OVMA 2016 and the “Zen Zone”

Posted on January 27, 2016 by downwarddogdvm

Rolling through Southern Ontario, on the train to Toronto.  Enjoying the chance to relax and write as I travel to my final destination.  I’m heading up to Toronto for my annual veterinary conference.  It’s been a tradition for almost 19 … Continue reading →

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Mindfulness Meditation Retreat 2015

Posted on October 27, 2015 by downwarddogdvm

Nicole: You know how everyone’s always saying seize the moment? I don’t know, I’m kinda thinking it’s the other way around. You know, like the moment seizes us. Mason: Yeah. Yeah, I know. It’s constant – -the moment. It’s just… … Continue reading →

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Beer cap wisdom

Posted on February 26, 2015 by downwarddogdvm

“A little nonsense now and then, is cherished by the wisest men.” ~Roald Dahl Forget the wine…pass the beer! Craft breweries are so much fun these days.  My favs are from “Flying Monkeys“.  Their specialty beers are totally amazing.  “The … Continue reading →

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Making Space for Silence

Posted on February 3, 2015 by downwarddogdvm

  There’s so much external noise, sometimes it’s hard to hear myself think.  Lately, I’ve been trying to make some space. Starting the Midday Mindfulness Meditation at the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association Conference was a step in that direction.  

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Back on the train

Posted on January 28, 2015 by downwarddogdvm

I love the romanticism of a train ride.  I get to indulge this fantasy as I travel to Toronto for my annual veterinary conference.  Having access to Wifi means I can write and be inspired by the passing scenery.

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Surprise – it’s been seven years!

Posted on January 1, 2015 by downwarddogdvm

I’m not keeping score.  Really, I’m not. I’ve been cultivating a mediation practice for 7 years now.  Wow.  I only figured that out when I went to put away my 2014 meditation journal and realized I had a bunch of … Continue reading →

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