Rather than being morbid, meditating about death lets us jettison spiritual clutter and enhance our lives

As gloomy as it sounds, meditating about death - morana-nusati in the Buddhist context - can be of great benefit to everyone, not just the elderly and the strictly devout.

"It's for everyone, even children," says Phra Paisan Visalo, author of the new book "Dying Mindfulness in Daily Life". "It can be done at home, at work or while travelling."

Why think about dying when you're still young and healthy? Because it allows us to organise our life priorities, says the celebrated monk. It helps us plan for the future better and let go of the inessential beliefs and emotions of the past.

The book's Thai title, "Ra-luek-tueng Kwam Tai Sabai Nuk", means "thinking of death is very relaxing". It explains why dying seems so dreadful to us, especially in an era when indulging in pleasure is so often the ultimate aim.

Here's a brief summary of two ways to practise morana-nusati.

Just before bed

Before climbing into bed, lie on the floor and relax, letting all of your body weight come to complete rest. Breathe naturally, noting how your inhalations and exhalations touch the tip of your nose.

Don't think about the past or worry about the future. Imagine that tonight is the last night of your life, and you have no further chance to talk to your loved ones. Everything - family, money, unfinished business - is about to become a thing of the past.

Do you feel any nervousness or sorrow creeping in? Are you ready to let go of everything in life? Explore anything that makes you feel unprepared for death, and look for ways around the obstacles.

It may be time to consider your past deeds, good and bad, and decide whether your life has been well lived. Is there psychological residue that needs purging? Have you been procrastinating about something? Have you not done enough?

While reading or watching the news

Imagine yourself the victim of an accident. Take note of any fear or suffering you might feel. Ask yourself if there is some way to relieve these conditions, and whether you are prepared for such a situation. Then ask yourself, "From now on, what should I do to be ready?"

This meditation will not only improve your mindfulness, it will speed the thought process involved and leave you better at dealing with your emotions.

XTRA

Access to the now

>>Phra Paisan Visalo's "Dying Mindfulness in Daily Life" is published by the Buddhika Network and is available at leading bookstores for Bt40.