BEING WITH DYING: Professional Training Program for Clinicians in Compassionate Care of the Seriously Ill and Dying at Upaya, Santa Fe

BEING WITH DYING: Professional Training Program for Clinicians in Compassionate Care of the Seriously Ill and Dying is an intensive healing training event designed for healthcare professionals, hospice workers, counselors, and caregivers seeking to deepen their capacity to serve the dying with wisdom and compassion. Held at the serene Upaya Zen Center in Santa Fe on Friday, May 7, 2027, this transformative program brings together contemplative practice and clinical expertise to address one of life's most profound transitions. With renowned teachers Mary Taylor and Michael Pollan guiding the experience, participants will explore the intersection of mindfulness, presence, and professional care—creating space for both personal transformation and enhanced clinical skills.

This healing training event in Santa Fe offers a rare opportunity to learn from practitioners who have dedicated their lives to understanding how contemplative traditions can support those facing mortality. The atmosphere blends the grounded, peaceful energy of Santa Fe's spiritual community with rigorous, evidence-based approaches to end-of-life care. Whether you're a clinician looking to refresh your practice or a caregiver seeking deeper tools for presence, this program honors both the professional and personal dimensions of this sacred work.

What to Expect

Arrive early to settle into the Upaya Center's serene environment, where you'll be welcomed into a community of like-minded practitioners. The day unfolds with guided meditation, teachings from our featured instructors, and interactive sessions that balance contemplative practice with practical clinical application. You'll move between moments of silence and engaged dialogue, creating space for both inner reflection and peer learning.

Throughout the program, expect sensory experiences that anchor learning in the body: the sound of a meditation bell marking transitions, the feeling of sitting in focused silence, the warmth of Santa Fe sunlight through the center's windows. Mary Taylor's gentle, precise guidance invites you into grounded presence, while Michael Pollan's insights illuminate the philosophical and practical dimensions of compassionate care. Breakout discussions and small-group practice sessions allow you to integrate teachings into your own clinical and caregiving contexts.

By day's end, you'll leave with both renewed perspective and concrete practices—meditations you can return to, frameworks for difficult conversations, and a deeper sense of meaning in your work with the seriously ill and dying.

About the Artists

Mary Taylor is one of the most experienced Ashtanga yoga teachers in the West, with decades of direct study under Pattabhi Jois. Her profound understanding of how embodied practice cultivates presence and equanimity translates directly to care work. Mary brings a rare combination of rigorous training and genuine warmth to everything she teaches.

Michael Pollan is an influential writer and educator who explores the complexities of systems—whether food, agriculture, or human experience—with clarity and rigor. His thoughtful approach to difficult subjects and ability to distill complexity into wisdom makes him an ideal guide for professionals navigating the complexities of end-of-life care. His presence adds both intellectual depth and accessible humanity to this healing training program.

Venue & Location

Upaya Zen Center is nestled in the foothills north of Santa Fe, a region known for its spiritual energy and natural beauty. The center's architecture and grounds create an atmosphere conducive to deep learning and contemplation. Ample parking is available on-site, and the location is easily accessible from downtown Santa Fe (approximately 15 minutes by car). The serene setting supports both focused professional training and personal renewal.