What if, after we die, we were wrapped, rather than boxed? The softness and flow of fabric creating a gentle outline, instead of hard edges, solid barriers and firm lines. Closing rituals of covering, wrapping, tucking and tying, taking time and being with our person after they have died, honouring them, honouring our love and connection.
There is something about the quiet simplicity and integrity of a shroud, and the ritual possibilities it holds, that offers an intriguing alternative to a coffin. But shrouds are an uncommon choice just now, and maybe we would feel unsure about how this would all work.
This workshop is an opportunity to come together to explore the ideas and possibilities of shrouds, to share wisdom and to practice together, reimagining and rediscovering this ancient practice and how it can support us today.
In this session we will explore together:
What a shroud is and where the idea comes from
Why we might choose a shroud instead of a coffin
Materials and fabrics that can be used for shrouds
Creative processes that can be used in shroud making
Designs and techniques for wrapping
How making and using shrouds can support us in being with death and grief
We will have time for sharing, for some hands on creative activities, and for shrouding practice. We will have some examples of shrouds of full size shrouds plus some scale models to show how different shroud designs can work. We will explore the idea of ritual and how shrouding can support us to hold tender space for ourselves and others in times of loss.
Location
Our venue for this workshop is the Birchcliffe Centre in Hebden Bridge. A short walk up the hill from the town centre, in a beautiful heritage building. I have held many events here and it is a wonderful, welcoming and nourishing space. Onsite parking is available, and accommodation options are nearby - please ask for more info.
Booking Info
Places are limited. Please click on the link to go to the booking page https://dandelion.events/e/shrouds-hb-aug-26
Any questions, please contact me.
Feedback from previous participants:
“A wonderful insight and journey into the origins of the shroud and its uses in history and beyond.”
“Highly recommend this day course - I wish it was a monthly gathering!”
“A beautiful part of re-weaving and re-membering our ancient ways. The interconnectedness of life and death, the importance of community care, and figuring out how to incorporate these rituals in the modern day.”
“Reclaiming a rite that has been lost. Thank you so much Rachel! This has been really special.”
“Rachel facilitated the shroud workshop beautifully and there was such rich sharing from the participants too. It was glorious to be in the presence of people who work with people who are dying or have died and talk all around the subject. All thoughts were welcomed; strong and potentially challenging ideas were welcomed; those who didn’t feel comfortable sharing were welcomed. It was just lovely.”