Join Megan Sheldon and Nicole Heidbreder for this powerful conversation about the two thresholds, birth and death, and how we can acknowledge the moments that surround them with ritual.
During our interview, we talk about the role of ritual in both birth and death, and why is it important to mark these two thresholds with intention and meaning. Nicole shares some of the most impactful ceremonies she’s been a part of, including the wedding Megan convened for her, her husband, and their farm community.
Birth and death rituals represent humanity’s universal need to mark the profound transitions that bookend our existence. These ceremonies share deep connections despite appearing as opposites.
Both birth and death rituals can acknowledge transformation – either entering this world or departing it. Across cultures, these moments are recognized as sacred thresholds where the boundaries between worlds become permeable.
Nicole Heidbreder has worked as a Hospice Nurse and Labor & Delivery Nurse in various capacities. She facilitates independent birth doula workshops and trained nursing students as a Clinical Instructor with the Johns Hopkins University Birth Companions Program.
As a death worker, Nicole supports people ending their life using Medical Aid in Dying and teaches End of Life Doula Workshops for the International End of Life Doula Association. Additionally, she hosts virtual Death Cafes that are open to the public. You can find out more about her here: www.gracefulfusion.com
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