| Holding people’s hands through birth, death, and all the stages between |
| In April I had the powerful experience of training to certify as a Death Midwife. In class, we learned how to support people navigating the complexities of death and dying. Our profound lessons covered topics such as grief and family dynamics, creating sacred space for transition, and death-related paperwork and legal documents. One of the most fascinating and empowering parts of the training was the discussion around moving away from the funeral industry toward home funerals (which can be more affordable, among other benefits) and earth-friendly options for body disposition, such as composting. One technique we learned in training is the gentle release of emotions through Jin Shin Jyutsu hand holding. Each finger is associated with a feeling, such as worry, fear, anger, and sadness, as well as a bodily functions, including the immune system, breathing, organs, and digestion. Death midwifery meaningfully complements my path as a birth doula and bodyworker. I’d love to share more about this experience, so please ask me about it the next time you’re in. |