Right now there is a shift in the way we think about death and the process of dying. 

Along with that change, we are in a time of fear and stress around death and dying.  This change moves us to try to understand dying in more open and less fearful ways. The change also lets us look at death in new, broad, and more helpful terms. While we re-look at death we wish to add lost wisdom and helpful forgotten practices to help us heal.  We can use these insights to more gently ready ourselves for our loved ones and our own eventual passing.

During this workshop we will investigate issues around death and dying.  First we will look at and complete the logistics or mechanics surrounding dying.  They include; assigning and signing a health proxy, developing a plan if you are unable to speak for yourself, selecting advocates for yourself, what forms and summaries you need if you are taken to the hospital, completing a caregiver guideline document and completing a 5 Wishes Plan that allows you to fully state your desires for burial, services and last words.

The following day will include an experientially oriented class that provides an opportunity for participants to explore their own personal beliefs regarding death as well as how both family of origin and the present culture impact attitudes towards death, grief and loss.  Inevitably will we look at death as a teacher that gives us the opportunity for our own development both psychologically and spiritually. 

A third session draws from research, experimental practices, cultural mores, story-telling, music and focused reflection to explore the mystery and meaning in dying and how it transforms how we live.  An awareness of death can be extremely valuable to living well and helps us live a reach and meaningful life.  This interactive session will use self-inquiry and small and large group discussions.  We will embrace grief and loss as a necessary fact of life and we begin to use the pain as a tool for healing for ourselves and others.