Death Nesting Through Living

Practices and discussions based on the award-winning book "Death Nesting: The Heart-Centered Practices of a Death Doula"

Heading into the very darkest time of the year makes way for a beautiful opening to contemplate dying and death. Creating space to gather with others in a safe and uplifted environment is a deeply nourishing way to explore the preciousness of life. Through discussions, contemplations and meditative practices we will open to curiosity and the groundless feeling of "not knowing." Though the topics may feel heavy, or uncomfortable, humor is always incorporated into how Anne-Marie leads groups. Participants are invited to drop all expectations for the weekend and arrive gently, humbly and ready to engage in living. Recommended reading in advance of the retreat:   "Death Nesting: The Heart-Centered Practices of a Death Doula" by Anne-Marie Keppel. Copies will be available at the retreat as well. Contemplations & Meditations During the retreat we will engage in activities and exercises which include: Dissolution practice (meditation for dissolving into the elements) Perimeter practice (contemplations on distancing emotions from the physical body) Sensory exploration Mindful nourishment practice Tonglen for self and other Readying the mind for Advance Directive work Laugh therapy Participants will leave the retreat with an expanded vocabulary, confidence for engaging in conversations around death and dying and feel refreshed and awake. The extended days are available for deepening your own meditation practice and contemplations of death nesting through living. Though tears will certainly flow, this is not a grief support group. Those who are actively mourning may not find this program helpful. However, if you have a diagnosis that you have been journeying with for some time, if you are caring for someone who is dying or will be in the future or if you are simply curious and wish to delve deeper into conversation around death and dying you'll find benefit in this program. This program is appropriate to do with friends and family-- the more the merrier! We are also offering an extended version of this retreat: Death Nesting Through Living: A 4-Day Retreat