WHAT WE CAN OFFER
We can help you prepare for your journey as you approach your end of life by mentoring you and your loved ones, helping to craft individualised plans and supporting you through this process.
Soul Midwives have both an esoteric knowledge of certain aspects of dying but are also practical, down to earth and able to work side by side with medical teams.
Our tender practice at the bedside sees us work many different tools of our trade, to support our ‘friend’ as they progress through the stages of their end of life journey. Music, sound healing, gentle touch, sacred oils, holding space and vigiling are part of what we can offer.
We hold respect and knowledge about many different cultural and religious traditions of death. Our work will be completely formed to fit your needs and wishes and we are happy to support your journey whether you wish to engage in a religious tradition or are an atheist.
THIS CAN BE A DIFFICULT TIME
• Would it help to talk about your situation with someone who is comfortable talking about dying?
• Do you think you and those close to you need some support to discuss practical and emotional aspects and what really matters?
• Would it be helpful to review how you might like to use the time you have left?
• Would you like to discuss and have assistance to complete an Advance Care Plan?
• Are you curious to explore what a ‘good death’ might be?
• Are you troubled by existential questions and have a desire to off load?
• Would you like someone to help vigil as death approaches?
How We Can Help
Listening
Deep listening and compassionate witnessing of your journey helps maintain your sense of integrity and personhood. Through this we tune in to what your individual needs are, and talk through options and explore how best you could be supported.
The people close to you may also feel stressed and worried as they seek to cope with the changing situation and anticipate what is going to happen next. It is often helpful for them to share how they are feeling, and to talk to someone who has an understanding of what the dying process can be like .
Planning
You may feel it is helpful to have a plan about how you wish to spend the time you have. Exploring what care is acceptable, where you would like to be cared for, what a good death would look like for you, and to put this in writing. It is an opportunity to review what support and services are available.
Many people complete an Advance Care Plan which helps set out your care wishes in a document, and is recognised by health care professionals.
Advance Directive to Refuse Treatment (ADRT) and Do Not Attempt Resuscitation DNAR forms are legal documents and their relevance can be discussed.
Spiritual
Spirituality is viewed as relating to aspects of connection and oneness with the energy and wonder of life. It embraces those moments of deep connection such as with nature, when something moves you, reading a poem, lost in gardening, seeing a beautiful view, being with loved ones. It is about the things that make you who you are, and gives your life meaning and purpose.
Existential questions often arise when faced with a life limiting condition, and people often ask questions such as ‘Why me?’, ‘What have I done?’ ‘What is the purpose of my life?’ These questions are listened to and responded to in a respectful way that honours someone’s life and helps them explore what really matters to them.
COSTS
Whilst it is difficult to put a price on compassionate care of this nature, it does have to provide a living wage. However, I will endeavour to be of service and try to help where possible.
My fee is comparable to London hourly therapy rates, but for people with low incomes this can be adjusted.
Soul Midwife - Diana 