The Art of Death Midwifery: An Introduction and Beginner's Guide
Winner of the 2009 National Best Books Award(death and dying)Doctor of interfaith Divinity and 18-year death midwife St. Pierre introduces the practice of assisting the dying as they transition from the physical world to the nonphysical. The book serves as a guide for professionals who frequently encounter death: nurses, hospice workers, etc., as well as those preparing to serve someone close to them during the last days. St. Pierre stresses the ability to sit with acceptance and love in the presence of pain and suffering and to honor the choices and belief systems of the patients. She also teaches methods of matching their states of consciousness to stay connected throughout the experience. Allowing for patients' different backgrounds, the author includes prayers, breathing and meditation techniques from various spiritual traditions as proper preparation for the role as conduit for divine energy and of the creation of a sacred space. A brief discussion of brainwave frequencies and the 13 phases of death--charted as "the Deathing Spectrum"--help to demystify the process, as do stories from St. Pierre's years of personal experience. Her tales of communication from beyond the grave may compromise her credibility for some, despite the bit of scientific support she gives for communication with the unseen world. References to death guides from myth and religion build appreciation for her profession, but it is when the author describes the intimate loss of loved ones (dogs, parents and best friends) that she connects readers on an intimate level with gritty, nearly uncomfortable emotion. An essential read for those ready to offer time, love and service during the big transition. --Kirkus Discoveries