Customer Reviews

The Art of Death Midwifery: An Introduction and Beginner's Guide

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The Art of Death Midwifery by Jocelyn St. Pierre, D. DIV., is a wonderful book for those interested in the "art" of helping guide others through the process of dying and also for those who just want to be more present for loved ones in the process of transition. There is plenty of help and support when we enter this world (birth) why not provide help and support when we leave this world? Even if we are not called to use the art of death midwifery to help others in their transition, it is invaluable in preparing ourselves for our own eventual transition and getting in touch with any fears we may have about this process.
It also contains a wealth of information about the availability of workshops, books, CDs, DVDs, and websites that will help educate us on the subject of death and dying and overcoming this most primal of fears. To top it off, it contains many personal stories and experiences that make this book an enjoyable read. Very uplifting!

To open this book is to open a jar of balm for the soul, a spiritual unguent to salve our wounds, the wounds of the living, while we sit with those who die. St. Pierre teaches how to communicate to the dying when the body is too frail for words. She presents a step-by-step program on how to hone one's subtle connection to the greater consciousness in order to respond specifically to individual people as they die. It's not a cookie-cutter death-care program. It is an indispensable book on the new science of Death Midwifery, a roadmap for those who are taking the trembling final walk with family, friend or client. In this eloquent mix of science, art and spirit St. Pierre's words heal the confusion and misunderstandings surrounding death and actively teach how to birth the death process. It will become a worn, lent and many times referenced guide. To gift this book to a friend giving end-of-life care is more than a hundred helping hands.

I have had a long journey to becoming a death midwife, and this book is the epitome of what death birthing is about. It is highly sensitive, intuitive, and instructional for those on this path. The detail of spiritual preparation for this work is completely universal regardless of what one's outer beliefs are. I have not found any other book as saturated in truth and love aside from Dr. Lonnie Edwards' Spiritual Laws that Govern Humanity. This book must be the cornerstone of every death midwife's practice!

This book is well written, clear and consise. While really giving an idea of what the work entails,and sharing some very helpful ideas of basic spiritual tools,the author succeeds in giving the curious compassionate worker many insights. I was surprised by the size of the font.. it's been a long time since I didn't need glasses to read... perhaps more tales of the authors experiences would have filled some space. I am dissappointed that the website and discussion group mentioned by the author are not actually real. If the author reads this review, perhaps she could respond with an accurate web address?

As a hospice Volunteer Coordinator, I am always looking for ways to improve care for my dying patients. I train people to sit vigil with patients and was looking for a book that focused on the spiritual aspect of caring for dying individuals - and I found it. This book was very helpful for me, and I appreciated that it was respectful of all different faiths. It gave good examples on how to incorporate prayer and other rituals to bring meaning to the end of life, and to provide comfort to patients and their families (and even to myself as I care for them).

I was very pleased with this book and definitely recommend it if you are in this line of work.

This is a great book with much needed information. I would love to see end of life care go in this direction for everyone.

This book gives the reader the essentials and advanced techniques for caregiving to the dying. It does not matter if you are a complete novice or a seasoned veteran, you will come away with a new understanding about the death transition. What I liked best about this book is the way one is moved away from fear or dread to a loving, nurturing, caring and potent position (both for the caregiver and the dying alike). The author has done the research, applied proven methods (both her own and others), practiced and improved these methods. The book also provides excellent and sound advice to the relatives and friends of the dying. I only wish I had been able to read this book before the death of some of my relatives and friends. I highly recommend this book.

Near death may be when people need someone there the most. "The Art of Death Midwifery: An Introduction and Beginner's Guide" discusses death midwifery, the job of being at the dying's side during their final moments. The presence of another can make the passing a much more peaceful and serene experience and bring a certain closure to a life. Giving tips and advice for this sensitive, yet important role, "The Art of Death Midwifery" is a choice pick for those who need to be there.

This is one of those books that touch your soul. I was guided from my own deceased dog after reading the first few chapters. Joellyn brings death back into our circle of life, where fear so often leaves us feeling powerless. The steps in the book give directions and leaves room for the unknown where sacred space for the healing of both the dying and the living happens.

The Art of Death Midwifery is easy to read, is educational, and brings back hope and inspiration!

I look forward to the day this "method" is our society's norm. To appreciate dying as the soul's reverent, graceful transition is a fundamental concept in many cultures. We need to bring it back to ours. This book is beautifully written, intelligent, thorough - Thank you.