Our sense of smell is linked to the limbic system which governs emotions, behaviour and long-term memory. The olfactory centres of the brain continue to function even when someone is unconscious. Sacred Oils profoundly comfort the emotional, physical and spiritual states for those dying and their caregivers. This online workshop is to support our 'remembering' of the feminine way of administering the Death Rites and why so many women are powerfully drawn to this holiest service.

Mary Magdalene as we know, anointed the body of Christ.  Isis anointed the body of Osiris who also miraculously came back to life, just long enough for her to conceive.

Many traditions recognize the period between death and burial as sacred and there are many rituals to be held to honour this time. One of the most beautiful practices is anointing and washing the body to prepare for burial. This now has become another lost art and has been professionalized, taking the care away from family and friends.

This is one last gesture we can do as that relationship begins to morph to another level. Supportive rituals of respect and emotional participation can assist family and friends in the process of loss.

The Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament administered by a bishop or priest, who uses the oleum infirmorum ('oil of the sick'), an olive oil or another pure plant oil blessed by a bishop, to anoint the patient's forehead and perhaps other parts of the body while reciting certain prayers. It gives comfort, peace, courage and if the sick person is unable to make a confession, even forgiveness of sins.

So, there is clearly an ancient art here, one that desperately needs to be remembered and given to as many as possible. This workshop is in honour of remembering, encouraging and finally giving ourselves the permission to know, that we know.

Our day will consist of oils, meditations, prayers and ancient stories to provoke remembering.