Appetite disappears: when the body begins to withdraw
One of the most observed physical signs before death is the loss of appetite. This is not simply a lack of hunger or thirst, but a natural process in which the body reduces its needs to focus on the main thing: preparing for the transition. This change is not necessarily a sign of suffering. On the contrary, it can indicate that the body and mind are working in sync for this transition.
Withdrawing inward: the need for solitude before saying goodbye
You may notice that a person at the end of their life gradually distances themselves from their surroundings, even from their dearest loved ones. This withdrawal may come as a surprise, but it is not uncommon. It is often an instinctive need to turn their attention inward, to take internal stock. This is not a rejection of the love of others, but rather a way to find the inner peace necessary to face the great transition.
Coded Messages: Symbolic Communication in the Last Moments
Words can become rare or cryptic, but gestures, looks, or even spontaneous drawings then take on special meaning. Some dying people communicate symbolically, leaving messages that are sometimes difficult to interpret. A simple word, an unexpected gesture, or a phrase out of context can be an attempt to share deep emotions or say goodbye in their own way. We need to learn to read between the lines and listen more with our hearts than our ears.
