10. Describe the emotional and spiritual dimension of caregiving

Section 3Exercise 6 Care for the Journey

You have previously encountered Michael Stillwater’s music in the Coping with Death exercise. As cofounder of Companion Arts, an organization focused on using the arts to support people in transition ans those who care for them, Stillwater uses music to help healers stay connected with their purpose. The organization’s website, under the heading “Care for the journey,” describes purpose of his work as follows: “ We create programs and resources for health professionals which address the roots of emotional and spiritual stress. Using the power of music and the arts, our approach is guided by trust and respect for each person's experience of spirituality.” You can visit the site at http://companionarts.org/index.html

Listen to the music clips from the album “The heart of healing” and answer the discussion questions.

Michael Stillwater, “Reflecting Pool”

Jermey Geffin “The Heart of Healing”

Jeremy Geffin “Self-Compassion”

What kind of feelings did the instrumental piece evoke? What does the instrumental piece suggest about the role of the arts in palliative care?

1. Give examples of ‘focused action’ ‘intention’ and surrender in caring for the dying. Does the meaning of ‘surrender’ change when it is applied to patients? Their families? Physicians?
2. What does the blend of words and music in the Geffen’s “The Heart of Healing” achieve?
3. Discuss the role of self-compassion in the context of your own experience. Why is self-compassion important throughout the trajectory of training and practice? What is its particular function in end-of-life care?