By Francesa Arnoldy

As doulas, we enter into our clients’ end-of-life and grief journeys as our(whole)selves. This includes not only kindness and patience, but also our conditioning and triggers as well. We are not empty vessels. We carry hushed reminders of past trauma, festering wounds, and unrecognized assumptions.

We are not void of dynamic humanness—thankfully so. In truth, it is the universal nature of suffering that allows us to open our minds and hearts to the struggle of others. We are not separate or spared. Yet, when we act in the role of a doula, our focus is on each client. We must not allow our baggage to inundate visits. How can we effectively reach a balanced stance of compassionate understanding and detachment? By shifting into our intentional presence.

We mindfully remain neutral and nonanxious, acting as a buoy that remains steady despite sea conditions. We notice the crashing waves and blustering gale, yet we are not overcome. This creates a feeling a safety for those riding out the storm.

Doula work is a practice of awareness.

This is not mine becomes a crucial mantra. We know loss. We have endured grief. Yet, this particular unfolding is our client’s, not ours. We hold space and witness. We gently support and encourage, mirroring back any notes of strength and trust we hear. When our shadowy sides surface—and they will—we temporarily tuck them aside, allotting ourselves self-care time outside of our work to process and heal.

In this way, we honor the moments spent supporting others. We also honor our own needs, nudging the tender edges that no longer serve. We regularly contemplate and learn, further cultivating our doula hearts.

Originally published – https://contemplativedoula.com/2020/06/29/whole-selves-and-shadow-sides-a-balanced-doula/