Who Is This Course For?

This course is suitable for individuals wanting to honour a deceased loved one at home, or end-of-life practitioners, healthcare professionals, and funeral providers looking to expand their knowledge and services. Learn the practical skills, legal considerations, and personalized approaches needed to facilitate meaningful home funerals. Transform the way you say goodbye and build a supportive home funeral community.

The course includes lessons on eco-friendly death practices, rituals and ceremonies for saying goodbye, and how to involve children in home funerals and the death process.

Course curriculum

    1. How to Use This Course

      FREE PREVIEW

    2. Welcome to By My Own Heart and Hand!

      FREE PREVIEW

    3. Course Structure and Community Guidelines

      FREE PREVIEW

    4. Monthly Community-Building Support Sessions

    5. About CINDEA

      FREE PREVIEW

    6. Who We Are - DWENA Practitioners

      FREE PREVIEW

    7. Course Syllabus

      FREE PREVIEW

    8. Course Entry Survey

    9. Creating a Safe Space for Vulnerability: Introduce Yourself

    1. Read: Brief Overview of Home Funerals

      FREE PREVIEW

    2. Watch: A Family Undertaking

    3. Read and Discuss: Benefits of Home Funerals

    4. Read and Discuss: Three Kinds of Deathing Ecology

    1. Read: The Importance of Post-death Physical Care

      FREE PREVIEW

    2. Read: Emotional, Physical, and Logistical Considerations

    3. Read: Practical Skills - Detailed Guide on Caring for a Body at Home

    4. Read and Watch: Dealing with the Body

    5. Read and Watch: Moving the Body

    6. Read and Watch: Washing the Body

    7. Read and Watch: Dressing and Positioning the Body

    8. Read and Watch: Keeping the Body Cool and Dealing with Rigor Mortis

    9. Read, Watch, and Discuss: Final Preparations - Moving the Body Into a Casket and/or Shrouding the Body

    10. Read and Discuss: Final Transporting of the Body

    11. Read and Watch: Supplies for Dealing with Post-Death Physical Care

    12. Discussion: The Importance and Benefits of Caring for a Death Journeyer at Home

    1. Read: The Importance of Planning

    2. Read and Watch: Well in Advance of the Death

    3. Read and Watch: Just Before the Death

    4. Read and Watch: Immediately After Death

    5. Read and Watch: Within the First Few Hours

    6. Read and Watch: Within the First Day or Two

    7. Read and Watch: Within 3 - 4 Days (or just before the burial/cremation)

    8. Read and Watch: Within the Next Week to 10 Days

    9. Discussion: Identifying Potential Challenges

    1. Read: Legal Requirements and Considerations

    2. Read and Watch: Paperwork

    3. Alberta Paperwork

    4. British Columbia Paperwork

    5. Manitoba Paperwork

    6. New Brunswick Paperwork

    7. Newfoundland and Labrador Paperwork

    8. Northwest Territories Paperwork

    9. Nova Scotia Paperwork

    10. Nunavut Paperwork

    11. Ontario Paperwork

    12. Prince Edward Island Paperwork

    13. Quebec Paperwork

    14. Saskatchewan Paperwork

    15. Yukon Paperwork

    16. Discussion: Getting Familiar with the Paperwork

    17. Quiz: Legal Requirements

    18. Discussion: Exploring Death Practices

    1. Read: Making Informed Decisions and Terminology

    2. Read: Disposition Options

    3. Read, Watch, and Discuss: Natural Burial

    4. Read and Discuss: Alkaline Hydrolysis

    5. Read, Watch, and Discuss: Natural Organic Reduction

    6. Read, Watch, and Discuss: Body and Organ Donation

    7. Read: Other Eco-Friendly Disposition Options and Accessing Eco-Conscious Providers

    8. Read, Watch, and Discuss: Pet Wakes & Disposition

About this course

  • $300.00
  • 79 lessons
  • Over 9 hours of video content
  • Enroll anytime and receive monthly Community-Building Support Sessions on Zoom
  • 90-day window from enrollment for those pursuing a certificate of completion (CEUs available for funeral directors & embalmers in British Columbia)

Reviews

5 star rating

Profound opportunity for self-reflection

Alisa Kage

I so appreciate this course, By My Own Heart And Hand. It was a review of many practical aspects of post-death care which I learned from Pashta in the past, as well as many other subtle considerations and elements that I had not explored or had fo...

Read More

I so appreciate this course, By My Own Heart And Hand. It was a review of many practical aspects of post-death care which I learned from Pashta in the past, as well as many other subtle considerations and elements that I had not explored or had forgotten about. I am very enriched by the modules on grief rituals, cultures, children, logistics & forms, greening dispositions, and the last additional module of Deathing Ecology. I was so honored to be included early this year as a participant in the filming of the many modules. It gave me the opportunity to interact and learn from other participants, to share my own experiences, and to gain so many useful insights and perspectives from everyone! I give special thanks to the co-instructors Tricia and Maddy. Both of your presence was so helpful and heartfelt. Finally, a big gold star to Pashta for realizing this project to make this precious knowledge and wisdom available online. All Blessings.

Read Less
5 star rating

Wonderful training and community building

Krista Manuel

Taking this course has revitalized my vision of serving families to be more involved in the death care of their loved ones. Thank you!

Taking this course has revitalized my vision of serving families to be more involved in the death care of their loved ones. Thank you!

Read Less
5 star rating

Review of BMOHAH Home Funeral Training Course

carmen wahl

I have so enjoyed taking this course and spending the time reflecting on what it means to have a good death, for both the death journeyer and their family. It wasn't clear to me beforehand that there were options other than conventional burial and...

Read More

I have so enjoyed taking this course and spending the time reflecting on what it means to have a good death, for both the death journeyer and their family. It wasn't clear to me beforehand that there were options other than conventional burial and cremation, and this knowledge has brought great comfort because neither was very appealing. I have also learned a lot about the legalities of dying and am better prepared to deal with the eventuality of my own parents' passing. The course material was well presented and many options for further reading/viewing are provided in each unit. The time requirement of 3 months to complete the course is very generous and really does only require about 4-5 hours a week, depending on how much of the extra material you choose to look at.

Read Less
5 star rating

Profound opportunity for self-reflection

Alisa Kage

I so appreciate this course, By My Own Heart And Hand. It was a review of many practical aspects of post-death care which I learned from Pashta in the past, as well as many other subtle considerations and elements that I had not explored or had fo...

Read More

I so appreciate this course, By My Own Heart And Hand. It was a review of many practical aspects of post-death care which I learned from Pashta in the past, as well as many other subtle considerations and elements that I had not explored or had forgotten about. I am very enriched by the modules on grief rituals, cultures, children, logistics & forms, greening dispositions, and the last additional module of Deathing Ecology. I was so honored to be included early this year as a participant in the filming of the many modules. It gave me the opportunity to interact and learn from other participants, to share my own experiences, and to gain so many useful insights and perspectives from everyone! I give special thanks to the co-instructors Tricia and Maddy. Both of your presence was so helpful and heartfelt. Finally, a big gold star to Pashta for realizing this project to make this precious knowledge and wisdom available online. All Blessings.

Read Less
5 star rating

Wonderful training and community building

Krista Manuel

Taking this course has revitalized my vision of serving families to be more involved in the death care of their loved ones. Thank you!

Taking this course has revitalized my vision of serving families to be more involved in the death care of their loved ones. Thank you!

Read Less
5 star rating

Review of BMOHAH Home Funeral Training Course

carmen wahl

I have so enjoyed taking this course and spending the time reflecting on what it means to have a good death, for both the death journeyer and their family. It wasn't clear to me beforehand that there were options other than conventional burial and...

Read More

I have so enjoyed taking this course and spending the time reflecting on what it means to have a good death, for both the death journeyer and their family. It wasn't clear to me beforehand that there were options other than conventional burial and cremation, and this knowledge has brought great comfort because neither was very appealing. I have also learned a lot about the legalities of dying and am better prepared to deal with the eventuality of my own parents' passing. The course material was well presented and many options for further reading/viewing are provided in each unit. The time requirement of 3 months to complete the course is very generous and really does only require about 4-5 hours a week, depending on how much of the extra material you choose to look at.

Read Less
5 star rating

Profound opportunity for self-reflection

Alisa Kage

I so appreciate this course, By My Own Heart And Hand. It was a review of many practical aspects of post-death care which I learned from Pashta in the past, as well as many other subtle considerations and elements that I had not explored or had fo...

Read More

I so appreciate this course, By My Own Heart And Hand. It was a review of many practical aspects of post-death care which I learned from Pashta in the past, as well as many other subtle considerations and elements that I had not explored or had forgotten about. I am very enriched by the modules on grief rituals, cultures, children, logistics & forms, greening dispositions, and the last additional module of Deathing Ecology. I was so honored to be included early this year as a participant in the filming of the many modules. It gave me the opportunity to interact and learn from other participants, to share my own experiences, and to gain so many useful insights and perspectives from everyone! I give special thanks to the co-instructors Tricia and Maddy. Both of your presence was so helpful and heartfelt. Finally, a big gold star to Pashta for realizing this project to make this precious knowledge and wisdom available online. All Blessings.

Read Less

FAQ

  • When can I take this course?

    This course is ongoing and open for enrollment at any time.

  • Can I take this course if I live outside of Canada?

    Yes! While Canadian-based, most of the information is valid anywhere in the world. Laws and legal paperwork will be different but we're happy to help you find appropriate information for your country. There are a number of United States-based resources provided as well.

  • How is this course structured? Are there deadlines?

    The By My Own Heart and Hand course offers flexibility with a **90-day completion window for those seeking a certificate of completion.** For example, if you enroll on April 15th, all course requirements are due at midnight on July 14th. The course is self-paced, with each chapter containing lessons in various formats, such as readings, videos, discussions, assignments, and surveys. In summary, from the day you enroll in the course, you will need to complete everything within about 12 weeks. For those not pursuing a certificate of completion, take your time to absorb the content at your own pace. Once enrolled, you will have lifetime access.

  • Can I get Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) for this course?

    Yes, if you are a funeral director and/or embalmer in British Columbia, Canada. This course is accredited by Consumer Protection BC for 3 CEUs. You will be asked to indicate which license the CEUs should be applied to in the Course Entry Survey. More information: https://www.consumerprotectionbc.ca/get-keep-licence/funeral-services/continuing-education/

  • How much time should I set aside each week?

    2-3 hours each week is recommended. Some chapters/lessons may take a little longer than others.

  • Are there any live sessions?

    Yes! On the third Monday of every month, there is a Community-Building Support Session on Zoom from 5:30-7 PM PST. These sessions offer a nurturing space for learning, sharing experiences, and fostering connections. At least one CINDEA teacher is in attendance at each session.

  • Do you have different payment options?

    There a few different payment methods including credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and *Afterpay / Clearpay (pay in 4 installments). *Please note: Afterpay / Clearpay is only available to Canadian residents.

Testimonials

“This thoughtfully designed course helped me develop an understanding of the legal requirements surrounding home funeral practices, disposition options, and how to craft meaningful deathing rites that support both the Death Journeyer and their loved ones. Maddy and Pashta are extremely engaging facilitators - always offering their expertise and asking prompting questions to help you deepen your understanding of the topics in the course. After taking By My Own Heart and Hand, I feel ready to guide others through all aspects of a home funeral.”

Maïa M. — December 2024

“By My Own Heart and Hand is a wonderful training for those interested in their own death care and for those wanting to care for their loved ones. As a licensed funeral director/embalmer it is also a fantastic learning for other "professionals". There is so much value in family involvement in after death care.”

Krista Manuel — February 2025

“I recently attended Pashta MaryMoon’s By My Own Heart and Hand home funeral training. Pashta and co-pilot Tricia Keith were so generous with their knowledge, and I learned so much more than I had anticipated. One of the highlights was the wonderful group of peers attending the course. By the end of the weekend, we felt a whole lot like community, and I am very moved by the experience. I highly recommend the course for anyone looking to care for their loved ones at home or for End of Life Doulas, like myself, who would like to learn more about empowering and supporting families in home death care.”

Brandi Bailey, Honour End of Life Care (About the original weekend workshop held on Zoom) — 2021

“I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to take CINDEA's one of a kind home funeral workshop, By My Own Heart and Hand. It was extremely well organized with a pace and flow fit for learning. The resources found and offered, relevant to each participant's province, were so generous. I have immensely grown to admire those providing home funeral support and respect the relevance and importance to have home funeral knowledge brought back into our families and communities.”

Jenn Chalifoux, Tree Rings Death Doula Home Support (About the original weekend workshop held on Zoom) — February 2022

“I appreciated both Pashta and Madeline's openness to engage in story and answering questions in a very caring way. They both exude a deep knowing and passion for this important work. Not only did I remember in my bones what a sacred gift this is, this knowing to care for our dead, I also felt a deep sense of community. I am grateful for your wisdom and sharing.”

Evamarie Padmanabhan, Little Origin Doula Services (About the original weekend workshop held on Zoom) — November 2022

“I am very grateful to Pashta and her team for creating this course. After completing this course, I felt prepared to begin offering support to those in my community who are interested in having a home funeral and/or making more informed choices around death and dying. This work is deeply meaningful to me and I appreciate Pashta's experience, teaching and mentorship on this journey.”

S.S.T. — March 2024

“I thoroughly enjoyed this course! I have come out of it with the knowledge and confidence to guide families through their home funerals. I appreciate the safe space to discuss topics of death and dying and to be a part of an online community with like-minded individuals. I 100% recommend! Everything you need is all there.”

Hayley N. — May 2024

“This was a wonderfully informative and practical course for home funeral guides in Canada! I highly recommend this course for your own interest or to help you on your way to guiding families in hosting their own intimate home funerals.”

Andrea Roth-Trimble — July 2024

“I just completed the Home Funeral Training, I am a certified End-of-Life Doula and this program has taught me more beautiful ways to support individuals as they come to their end of life. I look forward to sharing with others the possibilities of taking care of our loved ones before and after death.”

K. Wright — August 2024

“I loved having the opportunity to particpate in the original recording of many of the modules. Thanks so much for trusting me to provide comments, questions and sharing of my personal experience. These moments were truly healing for me as I navigate the loss and disorganized grief after my father's death one year previous. My big gratitude to the whole team for realizing this course! Namaste”

A.K. — October 2024

“This thoughtfully designed course helped me develop an understanding of the legal requirements surrounding home funeral practices, disposition options, and how to craft meaningful deathing rites that support both the Death Journeyer and their loved ones. Maddy and Pashta are extremely engaging facilitators - always offering their expertise and asking prompting questions to help you deepen your understanding of the topics in the course. After taking By My Own Heart and Hand, I feel ready to guide others through all aspects of a home funeral.”

Maïa M. — December 2024

“By My Own Heart and Hand is a wonderful training for those interested in their own death care and for those wanting to care for their loved ones. As a licensed funeral director/embalmer it is also a fantastic learning for other "professionals". There is so much value in family involvement in after death care.”

Krista Manuel — February 2025

“I recently attended Pashta MaryMoon’s By My Own Heart and Hand home funeral training. Pashta and co-pilot Tricia Keith were so generous with their knowledge, and I learned so much more than I had anticipated. One of the highlights was the wonderful group of peers attending the course. By the end of the weekend, we felt a whole lot like community, and I am very moved by the experience. I highly recommend the course for anyone looking to care for their loved ones at home or for End of Life Doulas, like myself, who would like to learn more about empowering and supporting families in home death care.”

Brandi Bailey, Honour End of Life Care (About the original weekend workshop held on Zoom) — 2021

“I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to take CINDEA's one of a kind home funeral workshop, By My Own Heart and Hand. It was extremely well organized with a pace and flow fit for learning. The resources found and offered, relevant to each participant's province, were so generous. I have immensely grown to admire those providing home funeral support and respect the relevance and importance to have home funeral knowledge brought back into our families and communities.”

Jenn Chalifoux, Tree Rings Death Doula Home Support (About the original weekend workshop held on Zoom) — February 2022

“I appreciated both Pashta and Madeline's openness to engage in story and answering questions in a very caring way. They both exude a deep knowing and passion for this important work. Not only did I remember in my bones what a sacred gift this is, this knowing to care for our dead, I also felt a deep sense of community. I am grateful for your wisdom and sharing.”

Evamarie Padmanabhan, Little Origin Doula Services (About the original weekend workshop held on Zoom) — November 2022

“I am very grateful to Pashta and her team for creating this course. After completing this course, I felt prepared to begin offering support to those in my community who are interested in having a home funeral and/or making more informed choices around death and dying. This work is deeply meaningful to me and I appreciate Pashta's experience, teaching and mentorship on this journey.”

S.S.T. — March 2024

“I thoroughly enjoyed this course! I have come out of it with the knowledge and confidence to guide families through their home funerals. I appreciate the safe space to discuss topics of death and dying and to be a part of an online community with like-minded individuals. I 100% recommend! Everything you need is all there.”

Hayley N. — May 2024

“This was a wonderfully informative and practical course for home funeral guides in Canada! I highly recommend this course for your own interest or to help you on your way to guiding families in hosting their own intimate home funerals.”

Andrea Roth-Trimble — July 2024

“I just completed the Home Funeral Training, I am a certified End-of-Life Doula and this program has taught me more beautiful ways to support individuals as they come to their end of life. I look forward to sharing with others the possibilities of taking care of our loved ones before and after death.”

K. Wright — August 2024

“I loved having the opportunity to particpate in the original recording of many of the modules. Thanks so much for trusting me to provide comments, questions and sharing of my personal experience. These moments were truly healing for me as I navigate the loss and disorganized grief after my father's death one year previous. My big gratitude to the whole team for realizing this course! Namaste”

A.K. — October 2024

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