This conversation-focused seminar will be centered on how societal approaches to death and dying are understood, discussed, and experienced. In particular, attention will be given to the gaps that can be found within our care systems at the end of life, as well as the ways in which palliative care and hospice care are often defined, compared, and applied. Through these explorations, a deeper awareness of death as a transition unique to each individual will be fostered, and tools will be provided to help ensure that end-of-life decisions are made in ways that reflect personal wishes and deeply held values.

It is intended to be attended by individuals who may be facing death themselves, by family members and friends who wish to better support their loved ones, and by those who are seeking to more fully reflect on their own future care and end-of-life preferences.

Some of the key questions to be explored may include:

• How can the death of a loved one and its aftermath be navigated with greater understanding and compassion?

• How might one’s own dying process be envisioned and honored?

• What does a “good death” mean, and how can it be shaped?

• How can what is most important—and culturally meaningful—to a dying person be upheld as they approach the end of their journey?

This is not intended to serve as a therapy session. Instead, it is designed as a candid and interactive discussion in which the physical and emotional processes of dying will be examined. By creating a space in which these experiences can be openly explored, individuals and families will be empowered to approach end-of-life decisions with greater clarity, confidence, and compassion.

Lara N. Dotson-Renta, PhD is a longtime writer, educator and scholar of languages (Spanish and French). She is also a 500hr RYT yoga instructor with trauma informed yoga training through The Veteran’s Yoga Project and children’s yoga training from Full of Joy Yoga in CT. She is also a trained death doula through INELDA (The International End of Life Doula Association). She is interested in helping others live life more fully and intentionally.

She resides in Lake Bluff with her family.