Conscious Dying
“Conscious dying” is a term used to describe the process of preparing for a peaceful transition. It acknowledges that each of us is going to die and that contemplating what a “good death” means can help us prepare to leave this life with a sense of acceptance, completion, and
peace of mind. Though there is more benefit in beginning this practice and preparation early in adult life, often it is done after
receiving a terminal diagnosis.
The path of conscious dying is unique for everyone, but there are common elements in each person’s journey:
* Pre-planning: completing Advance Directives
* Making informed choices: Life Support/Death Support
* Releasing attachments & Healing relationships
* Understanding the physical and emotional stages of dying
* Sitting vigil with the dying
* Religious/spiritual rituals at the time of death
* Planning music and sacred singing at the deathbed
* Choosing options for after-death care, funerals, and final disposition