How we experience the final bit of this lifetime can reflect the values and intentionality with which we live, but only if we empower ourselves with knowledge, make informed choices and know how to ensure our wishes are respected.
Join us for an empowering day-long retreat in the peaceful sanctuary of Leavenworth. Designed by nationally renowned end-of-life rights attorney and yogini Kathryn Tucker, this workshop invites a contemplative frame of mind, using gentle movement, breath and guided meditation, in which to learn about the often hidden twists and turns on this road travelled but once in this lifetime. Participants will gain important knowledge of all end of life options, considerations relevant to choosing among them, and practical tools to ensure your final bit of this life’s journey—or that of a loved one—is honored and reflects your preferences, values and beliefs.
What You Will Experience
Mind-Spirit-Body Integration: Mindful movement, breathwork, and meditation to cultivate a grounded, contemplative state of mind in which to consider these exceptionally important matters.
Expert Legal & Care Insights: Clear guidance on the evolving spectrum of end-of-life choices from the nation’s leading end of life rights advocate.
Schedule & Session Outline
Morning Session: Catalyze a contemplative frame of mind with guided movement, breathwork and meditation, in which to learn about the wide range of options at end of life, which are rarely discussed, yet can dramatically alter the experience. Topics Covered: Avoiding the default of endless interventions; Ensuring adequate pain and symptom management, including palliative sedation; supportive allies in hospice and end-of-life doula care; Voluntarily stopping eating and drinking (VSED), including for those seeking to avoid a prolonged period with advanced dementia; forgoing or withdrawing of medical treatment; psilocybin assisted therapy for relief of anxiety, depression and/or existential distress; Medical aid in dying (MAID). Practical strategies for communicating wishes effectively with medical team.
Midday Break & Provided Light Lunch Pause to recharge with a light, nourishing lunch provided on-site. Enjoy time for quiet reflection, fresh air, and casual connection amidst the natural beauty of Leavenworth.
Afternoon Session: Wisdom from the Yoga Tradition
Re-ground through gentle movement, followed by an exploration of yogic philosophy regarding life’s final passage. Topics Covered: yogic perspectives on impermanence, transition, and release; practices that catalyze, nurture and sustain equanimity in the face of major life shifts and related loss of sense of self and identity; Integrating these practical tools into everyday life at any stage.
Optional Evening Session: Film & Community Discussion Reconvene in the evening for a special screening of a film exploring end-of-life themes, followed by discussion.
About Your Facilitator: Kathryn Tucker, JD: A veteran of nearly every effort to expand and protect end-of-life choices in the U.S. over the last three decades, Kathryn is a nationally recognized attorney, law professor, advocate, and dedicated practitioner and teacher in the Ashtanga(eight limb) Yoga Tradition. Described as "the nation’s leading end-of-life rights attorney" and "one of the most influential end-of-life litigators in the United States," she brings a rare blend of legal rigor and spiritual depth to this work.
Investment & Registration Sliding Scale: $250 – $400 (Select the tier that best reflects your financial capacity; your contribution supports accessible community programming). Includes: Full-day retreat programming, course materials, suggested reading/bibliography, provided light lunch, and access to the optional evening film screening and discussion.
Who Should Attend: Any mortal seeking a thoughtful, proactive approach to thinking about and preparing for the last bit of this lifetime, whether for personal reflection, to support an aging loved one, or as a healthcare provider, caregiver, or yoga teacher or practitioner looking to expand their toolkit. No prior yoga experience is necessary.
What to Bring: A journal, an object for our altar, curiosity, and comfortable clothing for gentle movement.