Part of my role as an End of Life Doula is vigil sitting.
But what exactly is vigil sitting or holding vigil and how might I support you with that?
Vigil Sitting is being present and holding sacred space for a person who is in the active phase of dying and for a short time after death. The active process of dying can last anything between 7 days and a few hours.
Perhaps, I will have got to know you a little first and maybe we have drawn up a plan of how you would best like to be supported through this process? Regardless whether we have met or a plan is in place what matters most during this process is you – your comfort, your dignity, your wishes, your peace of mind and heart as you transition.
I might be called to be the vigil sitter or I might be called upon to support loved ones as they sit vigil.
I serve to empower you and your loved ones so my part in vigil sitting might simply be to support with practical tasks, supplying your loved ones with cups of tea and nourishment of food and tlc, or be on hand to allow loved ones to take much needed breaks.
It might also be a time when loved ones require reassurance and emotional support.
Vigil sitting is a most beautiful and sacred time – a time for love, of tenderness, peace and soothing the soul.
And it doesn’t end with the last breath.
Vigil sitting might continue into the hours and days following death and include the continuing care of your body whilst ensuring a respectful and peaceful space is held.
Do you know it is believed that the energy (some might call it the soul or spirit) of the body can take anywhere from a few hours to 36 hours to leave the physical body after death has occurred?
Vigil sitting post-death will most likely involve me supporting your loved ones in whatever way they feel they need at the time. That might be to ensure they have quiet time or to ensure there is opportunity for them to chat.
How would you like to experience your last days and hours?
What do you envisage?
Where would you like to be – given the choice?
What concerns you most?
Now you’ve reflected on these questions write down your thoughts and let your nearest and dearest know.
Nancy 
xx
HELD 