Alison Davies - Be More Cat

Its true that cats are a constant inspiration. Little did I realise when I adopted my two rescue cats Minnie and Honey, what magic theyd weave for this wordsmith. I knew Id love them with a passion, but Ive also learnt a great deal from both of them.

More recently when my beloved Minnie, aptly named because of her size, was attacked in the back garden by a dog, my true journey of self discovery began. With a 25% chance of survival, a ruptured abdomen and a broken spine, things did not look good but Minnie is a fighter.

Against the odds and with lots of care, physiotherapy and prayers to the cat Goddess Bast, she got better.

Shell never be able to walk, but she has adapted her own unique and super speedy shuffle. She plays, climbs, and chases Honey, and together they have taught me that the power of love, a playful spirit and feline determination is a potent and unbeatable combination.

This book is for them and for every cat (and doting human) around the world. Its also for those less enamoured with our furry friends if this is you, may a little feline charm work its way into your heart.

To one and all, be more cat and be happy!

CONTENTS

WHAT GREATER GIFT THAN THE LOVE OF A CAT.
CHARLES DICKENS

CATS RULE

There is a bond between humans and cats that spans the ages. Its a relationship that stands the test of time. From the Ancient Egyptians who so revered their cats that when they died, the entire family shaved off their eyebrows as a mark of respect, to the cats of Malaysia who its thought had the immense responsibility of transporting the souls of the dead to paradise.

The Japanese too have their Beckoning Cat, a potent symbol of luck. As the tale goes this canny feline raised its paw to a passing feudal lord, beckoning him into the temple just in time to save him from being struck by a lightning bolt. Replicas of this clever kitty are everywhere today, and thought to bring good fortune, success and happiness in all areas of life.

Who knows where the roots of our fascination with felines began, but one things for sure it continues with a passion. We watch them. We play with them. We make them part of our home and most importantly our heart. And we can also learn a lot from the way they deal with life. Their cattitude and ability to seize the day make them excellent examples of how to make the most of every moment; whether its an impromptu game of chase the sock, or an opportune slice of roast chicken, our cats have it sorted.

Theyre flexible but also prepared to tread their own path and they recognise the importance of play and rest in equal quantities. These elements of the feline creed make them more than worthy of the title furry Zen master.

This book reveals the NINE different traits that you can take on board to be more cat and live a happier, healthier and all-around feline fabulous existence. With practical tips and exercises, interspersed with folklore and fun facts about our kitty gurus, theres something for everyone.

So sit back, relax and learn the art of BEING CAT .

LIVE IN THE MOMENT

Ever noticed how a cat can spend hours staring into space? Like a resting Buddha, our feline friends have learnt the secret of inner peace. They live in the moment, happy to clear the mind and take in their surroundings.

Look into a cats eyes in these moments and youll feel a WAVE OF TRANQUILLITY wash over you. Its no wonder the ancients believed you could see into the faerie other world by gazing into their peepers!

According to Old English folklore, the cats eyes were not only the windows to its furry soul, but also a portal from which fey kings and queens could get a glimpse of our world.

Whether you believe the magical interpretation or not, one things certain; you cant disturb a cat when its zoned out. Its virtually impossible to lift them from their stupor, unless youre prepared to brave the wrath of the claw. CATS MAKE MEDITATION LOOK EASY . They slip into a reflective state at the blink of an eye. This is because of their ability to dis-engage with whats going on around them. But dont be fooled; theyre still very much aware of their surroundings and ready to pounce should the occasion arise. Like a skilled ninja they are masters of disguise; with the appearance of one so chilled out they might just topple off the table top, they are fully conscious and responsive.

So how do they do this and is it a super-power that humans can master? If you take the time to watch a cat in deep contemplation, youll notice the way it fixes its eyes upon an object, making it the sole focus. As hunters theyre primed for attack at any moment, which makes them keenly aware of their environment.

Whether theyre sussing out a bird, a fly or the chipped paint on your window sill, they treat it with the same respect, fixing it under their hypnotic stare. A similar practice might render us cross-eyed, but this along with an ability to STOP AND TAKE EVERYTHING IN , is one of the reasons cats are Zen. Their conscious mind might be snoozing but their subconscious is gently appreciating the world, from a distance.

Some might call this MINDFULNESS; a popular and highly effective technique which improves health, will-being and peace of mind. Cats have been doing the since the beginning of time. This was one of the many reasons the Ancient Egyptians revered them so much.

THE JOY OF CATFULNESS

Its a strong coincidence that the word catatonic, meaning in a stupor, should have cat at its core. The truth is our clever felines maintain a fine balance between HIGHLY RELAXED and UBER ATTENTIVE, something even experienced gurus struggle with.

Who better then, to give the low down on living in the moment and experiencing THE JOY OF HERE AND NOW.

STEP ONE

Find a comfy spot, preferably with a view, and make sure you wont be disturbed.

STEP TWO

Pick something that attracts your gaze, for example a flower, a tree or a building.

STEP THREE

Relax and look at the object youve chosen. Take in its appearance and let any thoughts and observations drift into your mind. If you get distracted dont worry, simply draw your attention back to the object.

STEP FOUR

Notice any outstanding features, for example is the flower moving, what kind of shape is it?