How To Comfort A Loved One Who Is Dying

By Marilee Tolen RN, HNC
HomeSpaLady™

One of the most difficult things in life is experiencing the loss of a loved one. Worse than that is feeling the powerlessness of not knowing what to do to help make the loved one's transition more comfortable.

Here are 7 of the "17 Ways to Comfort A Loved One Who is Sick or Dying", a Free Special Report offered on my website http://peacefulpassages.org.

• Clear and straighten the environment A cluttered environment creates obstacles for movement and can bean unknown source of stress. Have bedsides and surrounding area clear from unnecessary clutter.
• Control the room temperature. Most people who are sick or dying have altered body temperatures. Do your best to get a clear indication as to whether they are hot or cold and adjust the room temperature and bedding to regulate them.
• Wipe face and eyes with warm, moistened, soft washcloth. This can feel so wonderful to the person who is bedridden. Offer it more than once or twice a day.
• Lightly spray or diffuse essential oils in the environment. Essential Oils such as lavender and citrus can have a calming and peaceful effect. Mix a few drops with distilled water in a spray bottle to spray in the air, or diffuse with a cold air diffuser made specifically for aromatherapy use. Be certain not to use perfume or perfume grade oils. Use only therapeutic grade essential oils. To create a more spiritual environment, use oils from ancient scripture such as Frankincense.
• Hold or rub their feet. Feet provide access to the entire body through reflex points. Whether you offer a gentle foot massage or just hold their feet - both offer comfort.
• Clear their energy field. A simple measure of using your hands to clear and balance the energy field of the person who is sick or dying is frequently able to take someone from a level of discomfort to comfort. Place both of your hands approximately 3 inches off their body and move your hands in short sweeping motions downward. Start at the head and move toward the feet.
• Gently brush their brow with a light touch. Touching someone's forehead can offer great comfort to them. People often touch their own foreheads when they feel distressed or unwell. Using a gentle touch to the forehead of someone who is sick or dying is a natural thing to do. Placing your hand and keeping it there, or lightly brushing their brow can offer comfort.
   

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Marilee Tolen RN, HNC - Board Certified Holistic Nurse
HomeSpaLady™
“. . .natural remedies for health and beauty that you can do at home!”
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