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What is Dead Meditation? – Cannadelics

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8 months ago

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Meditation is a practice where the individual uses breath work and stillness to calm the body and the mind. Many religions – including Buddhism and Hinduism – use this spiritual technique to bring us closer to each other, closer to God and closer to ourselves. In its simplest form, meditation allows us a moment to stop. To pause the ongoing thoughts in our head and the endless lists of errands to run. You simply observe. Detached from these previously stressful, sad or even happy thoughts.

So if that’s what meditation is, then what do you think about death meditation? This practice has a longer history than you may imagine and is becoming increasingly more popular as a social media trend. Let’s find out what this phenomenon actually is. 

What is Meditation?

In our fast-paced and increasingly interconnected world, the practice of meditation has gained significant attention as a way to find solace, balance, and inner peace. With roots stretching back thousands of years across various cultures and traditions, meditation is more than just a passing trend; it is a profound technique that offers a gateway to self-discovery and heightened well-being.

The Essence of Meditation

At its core, meditation is a mental exercise that involves focusing the mind and eliminating distracting thoughts. Contrary to popular belief, meditation is not about emptying the mind completely, but rather about cultivating awareness and achieving a state of heightened concentration. It’s a process of training the mind to become more attentive, centred, and attuned to the present moment. Rather than ignoring your thoughts, you’re simply allowing them to wash over you, and not take control. The Buddhist Centre writes: 

“Meditation is a means of transforming the mind. Buddhist meditation practices are techniques that encourage and develop concentration, clarity, emotional positivity, and a calm seeing of the true nature of things. By engaging with a particular meditation practice you learn the patterns and habits of your mind, and the practice offers a means to cultivate new, more positive ways of being.”

The takeaway here is positivity. Seeing the world in an optimistic way is key to meditation, as this is what makes our lives easier to live. There are many things in life that are stressful and painful, we cannot always escape this, but what we can do is find a way to look at life differently. For instance, a fear of death is a common thought that may pop into people’s heads. In fact, dying is one of the only genuine guarantees we have in life. But how can we deal with this scary prospect? Well, that’s where death meditation comes in. 

Different Forms of Meditation

There are varying forms of meditation that exist today. Some are newer and some have been around for thousands of years. Each has its own techniques and goals. In this modern world, meditation has become more of an accessible technique than something you may need to travel to the other side of the world to learn. Apps such as Headspace and Waking Up offer easy and digestible meditative methods to help with people’s everyday lives. Fear of flying? We’ve got you. Anxious after work? We’ve got you. Sad after a heartbreak? We’ve got you. Modern meditation has found ways to deal with specific emotions that pop up a lot in the modern mind. Headspace writes:

“Meditation isn’t about becoming a different person, a new person, or even a better person. It’s about training in awareness and getting a healthy sense of perspective. You’re not trying to turn off your thoughts or feelings. You’re learning to observe them without judgement. And eventually, you may start to better understand them as well.”

With this in mind, let’s take a look at some of the various forms of meditation:

Mindfulness Meditation: This form of meditation encourages individuals to observe their thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgement. The aim is to develop a heightened awareness of the present moment and to be fully engaged with whatever is happening now.

Transcendental Meditation: Originating from ancient Vedic traditions, this technique involves silently repeating a mantra—a specific word, sound, or phrase—to transcend ordinary thought and access a state of deep restful awareness.

Loving-Kindness Meditation: Also known as Metta meditation, this practice involves generating feelings of love, compassion, and goodwill toward oneself and others. It cultivates positive emotions and a sense of interconnectedness.

Vipassana Meditation: Rooted in Buddhist teachings, Vipassana aims to achieve insight into the true nature of reality by observing bodily sensations, thoughts, and emotions in a systematic way. It’s a method of self-exploration and self-understanding.

Guided Meditation: In this approach, a teacher or recorded audio guides participants through visualisations or scenarios that promote relaxation, self-awareness, and personal growth.

Death Meditation: Also known as contemplation of mortality or mindfulness of death, is a practice that encourages individuals to reflect upon the reality of their own mortality and the transient nature of life.

What is Death Meditation?

In our fast-paced modern world, where distractions abound and the pursuit of material success often takes priority, contemplating mortality can seem uncomfortable and unsettling. Yet the fact is, many of us think about it. More than we would like to admit. According to a CBS poll, around 50% of the American population think about death on a regular basis. However, death meditation, a practice rooted in ancient spiritual traditions, offers a unique and profound way to engage with the concept of death. By acknowledging and embracing the inevitability of death, practitioners can gain insights that lead to a more meaningful and fulfilling life. Also known as Maranasati meditation, Positive Psychology writes: 

“Research shows that coming to terms with death is essential to living life fully… yet in the Western world, many of us are socialized to avoid discussing or even thinking about death, leading many to suffer from death anxiety and terror of this inevitable event.”

It’s an interesting concept. Take the thing that many fear the most in the world and, rather than ignore it, engage with it and accept it. Only then, maybe, will people be able to live their lives without fear. 

How Does It Work

There are several approaches to practising death meditation. One common technique involves visualising one’s own death in vivid detail. This might include imagining the physical sensations, emotional responses, and the gradual fading of consciousness. Another method involves meditating on the impermanence of all things, recognizing that everything in life – including our own existence – is going to end. There’s beauty in that in a way, just as there is in nature. The Daily Mail describes one method of Maranasati meditation:

“Another death meditation practice involves visualizing the body’s inevitable decay to let go of attachments to the material world. In some more intense sessions, participants wrap themselves in white sheets to make themselves look and feel like mummies or they will write their own eulogies to read out loud to a group. “

This may sound extreme, weird and strange but that’s because it is. Since covid, death meditation has gained a lot more traction due to the amount of people beginning to fear their own death. In fact, this craze has gained 2.5 million views on TikTok and 3000 posts on Instagram. This means that even the Gen Z’s are learning about it. Nonetheless, just because this practice may seem odd, doesn’t mean it doesn’t have benefits. We’re so often taught to simply not think about the things that scare us. And yet, fearing death, is probably one of the most logical fears you can have. It happens to everyone. So perhaps staring death in the face, understanding it and accepting it, is the best way to stop fearing it. 

Benefits of Death Meditation

Here are some of the key benefits of death meditation. 

Perspective Shift

Engaging with the concept of death can lead to a profound shift in perspective. It can help individuals prioritise what truly matters, such as relationships, experiences, and personal growth, over superficial concerns.

Reduced Fear

Regular practice of death meditation can desensitise the fear of death, which is often a source of anxiety for many. By confronting mortality head-on, people can find a sense of acceptance and peace.

Enhanced Gratitude

Awareness of life’s impermanence can cultivate a deep sense of gratitude for the present moment. By realising that life is finite, individuals are motivated to make the most of their time and experiences.

Emotional Resilience

Death meditation can contribute to emotional resilience by helping individuals develop a healthier relationship with suffering and adversity. It encourages embracing discomfort as part of the human journey.

Ego Dissolution

The practice challenges the ego’s attachment to the self, fostering humility and diminishing the ego’s dominance over thoughts and actions.

Final Thoughts

Whilst the name itself might sound alarming, death meditation seems completely sensical and beneficial. Nowadays, meditation is being used to tackle a variety of issues and anxieties. Therefore, why not a fear of death too? In many old societies, humans would discuss death from an early age, knowing what came before and what will come after. In essence, the cycle of life. In the modern world, we often ignore it as best we can. This inevitably leads to a great fear of the unknown. Perhaps more people should be delving into the world of death meditation. 

Hello readers. We’re happy to have you with us at Cannadelics.com; a news source here to bring you the best in independent reporting for the growing cannabis and hallucinogen fields. Join us frequently to stay on top of everything, and subscribe to our Cannadelics Weekly Newsletter, for updates straight to your email. Check out some awesome promos for cannabis buds, smoking devices and equipment like vapes, edibles, cannabinoid compounds, amanita mushroom products, and a whole bunch more. Let’s all get stoned together!



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Advice

Should Marijuana Be Part of a Major Conversation

Published

4 months ago

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December 28, 2023

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Whenever family gathers there is a visit to past good times and grievances, and if there has been some times…a realization or need to share life announcements.  Whether it is a marriage, baby, divorce, move, coming out or an intervention, it is tricky and lots of moving parts.

RELATED: How To Talk About Cannabis With The Elderly

The topic might be heavy, the mood might be heavy, but finding the right words is imperative. It is important to be clear, to have a message and to be ready to questions, feedback and maybe even pushback.  All this means being on your A game.  No expert would suggest having significant alcohol before a sharing something about a life change.

 

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Utilizing cannabis before a talk might be beneficial, but it can also be detrimental. It depends on many factors, not the least is the topic at hand.  There are subjects we think long and hard about before bringing them up, however, they might be enhanced by either microdosing THC or imbibing in an amount you know you’re confident and have the ablity to share and the guide the information.. Changes in relationships can be some of the more difficult conversations, but elevating the discourse with a little cannabis can help you be more present, empathetic and delve deeper into what it is that you’re conveying and why.

Talking health issues is another place where cannabis may not only enhance the conversation, but may be a key part of what’s discussed. Everyone has at least one cannabis-resistant relative, but if said loved one is suffering, having a talk with them about introducing marijuana into their treatment may alleviate their suffering if you can get through. The key here is not to be stoned, but lifted, and to have talking points laid out before entering the room.

RELATED: A Guide For Talking To Your Teens About Marijuana

When it comes to having a talk with a close friend to whom you’re breaking news or bringing up concerning actions or habits that have cropped up, introducing cannabis to the discussion can take the edge off for both of you. Stand firm in your convictions, but listen and try to see things through their eyes, no matter who you’re talking with.

If you’re not a daily or even weekly pot smoker or user, microdosing is definitely the recommended route pre-talk. Sometimes staying sober is the easiest route. If you want to remain clear-headed but need a little something, microdose with sativa. Then get a good, heady indica for after. You’ll probably have a lot to think about afterwards as well and that’s when cannabis will really be relieving to end a long day. Just don’t overthink what can’t be unsaid and breathe it out with every fragrant exhale.



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Culture

Matthew Perry Found Dead: ‘The One Where Our Hearts Are Broken’

Published

6 months ago

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October 31, 2023

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On October 28th, 2023, Matthew Perry – one of the legends of comedic acting and an advocate for addiction prevention – was found dead in his apartment.

Perry, known iconically for his role as Chandler in the hit sit-com Friends, was struggling with addiction for a lot of his adult life, but was on a long sober road. However, there is nothing currently conclusive to suggest that any substances – subscription or not – were in his system when he passed. Nonetheless, the autopsy is still ongoing. Today we’re going to take a look at this truly legendary person’s life, and mourn a man that was taken far too early at the age of 54. As the co-writers of Friends, Marta Kauffman and David Crane, said in a statement recently: this is the ‘one where our hearts are broken’.

Matthew Perry 

Matthew Perry, a name that resonates with millions around the world, is not just an actor but a cultural icon whose work has left an undoubtable mark on the landscape of television, film and the world of addiction. Best known for his portrayal of Chandler Bing on the immensely popular sitcom Friends, Perry’s career extends far beyond the confines of Central Perk and those 5 other loveable mate’s of his. 

Early Life

Matthew Langford Perry was born on August 19, 1969, in Williamstown, Massachusetts. Raised in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, Perry’s childhood was marked by the influence of his father, John Bennett Perry, an actor, and his mother, Suzanne Morrison, a Canadian journalist. Despite his parents’ divorce when he was very young, Perry maintained a close relationship with both. At a young age, Perry developed an interest in tennis, even reaching a competitive level. However, a serious injury forced him to pivot, leading him to discover his passion for acting. Perry moved to Los Angeles to pursue an acting career, and his early years in the industry were marked by a series of television appearances, including roles in shows like ‘Silver Spoons’ and ‘Growing Pains’. If you’ve ever watched an episode of either of these, you’ll see that Matthew had a knack for comedy at a very young age. 

matthew perry

Breakthrough with Friends

Perry’s career reached new heights in 1994, at the age of 24, when he landed the role of Chandler Bing on the NBC sitcom Friends. The show, created by David Crane and Marta Kauffman, followed the lives of six friends living in New York City and became a cultural phenomenon. Perry’s portrayal of the sarcastic and lovable Chandler, known for his witty one-liners and distinct humour, contributed significantly to the show’s success. In fact, he even won an Emmy in 2004 for the role. People Magazine quotes Perry’s words in is 2022 memoir:

“It was as if someone had followed me around for a year, stealing my jokes, copying my mannerisms, photocopying my world-weary yet witty view of life…it wasn’t that I thought I could play ‘Chandler’; I was Chandler.”

The comedy romance between Matthew Perry and the role of Chandler was absolutely perfect. They knew each other inside and out. Friends ran for ten seasons, 236 episodes, and Perry’s performance earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan following. The ensemble cast, which included Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, and David Schwimmer, became synonymous with 90s pop culture, and the show remains one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time. 

Post Friends

Like all great things, Friends came to an end in 2004. By that point, the cast were so famous and successful, that they were earning around 1 million dollars each per episode. Following the conclusion of this beloved show, Matthew Perry ventured into various acting projects, both in television and film. However, he faced the challenge of breaking away from the iconic character of Chandler Bing. While some of his projects achieved moderate success, including the critically acclaimed drama The West Wing, none reached the same level of cultural impact as Friends. Perry also explored the world of film, taking on roles in movies such as The Whole Nine Yards.

Despite his efforts to diversify his career, Perry faced the inherent challenge that many actors from massively successful TV shows encounter when attempting to transition to different roles. He also involved himself in the theatre world, writing and performing in his own play, The End of Longing, that was performed in London’s West End. But the deep truth, underneath his success, was that Matthew Perry was struggling with addiction.

Struggles with Addiction

Behind the scenes of fame and success, Matthew Perry faced personal battles with addiction. Throughout his time on Friends, Perry struggled with substance abuse issues, particularly with alcohol and prescription medications. The demanding schedule of the show and the pressures of fame took a toll on his well-being. Perry said at the Friends Reunion in 2021: 

“I felt like I was going to die if the live audience didn’t laugh…And it’s not healthy for sure, but I could sometimes say a line and they wouldn’t laugh, and I would sweat and just go into convulsions. If I didn’t get the laugh I was supposed to get, I would freak out. I felt that every single night. This pressure left me in a bad place.”

Matthew Perry has admitted in the past to being so ‘out of it’ during the filming of Friends, that he actually doesn’t remember 3 whole seasons of Friends. He also mentions in his recent book – Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing – that you can tell how he’s doing with his addiction based on his extreme weight fluctuation season by season. According to Perry, when he seemed overweight, it was the alcohol, and when he seemed underweight, it was the prescriptive drugs. Matthew admitted to taking around 55 vicodin, xanax, methadone, and a quarter of vodka daily. It was around this point that the cast of Friends spoke to him and suggested he find help. In 1997, Perry entered rehab for the first time. He  continued to work on the show during this period, showcasing a remarkable level of professionalism amid his personal struggles. Over his life, Matthew had 15 trips to rehab, 6000 AA meetings and spent around 9 million dollars on addiction prevention.

matthew perry

Near Death Experience

In 2019, Matthew Perry was taken into hospital due to a burst colon, caused by his overuse of opioids during his life. He was in a coma for two weeks and was hospitalised for 5 whole months. He had to use a colostomy bag. The doctor’s have said that he had around a 2% chance of survival. NBC reports Perry’s own words: 

“There were five people put on an ECMO machine that night and the other four died and I survived… So the big question is why? Why was I the one? There has to be some kind of reason.”

It seemed that this near death experience gave Perry a new lease of life, as he realised that this was his chance to help other people suffering from similar situations to him. This became his goal for the last few years before his recent passing. Perry said that when he died, he wanted to be remembered for how he had helped people, not just for his role as Chandler. His 2022 memoir was so truthful, so damning and so beautiful, that there’s no doubt that many out there have sought the book out for much-needed help. 

Matthew Perry’s Death 

Matthew Perry was found dead in his jacuzzi on October 28th 2023. Supposedly he had gone into cardiac arrest and drowned, but at present there is no definitive cause of death. Some wonder if Perry was intoxicated, others suggest that the hot tub could have been faulty and had heating issues, which could have caused him to pass out from heat exhaustion. Authorities are saying it might take weeks or even months before any of these questions are answered. The true sadness is that, despite his struggles with addiction, Perry was on a road of recovery and redemption. He was helping people, as he had wished he would. The cast of Friends released a statement after Perry’s death: 

“We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew… We were more than just castmates. We are a family. There is so much to say, but right now we’re going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss. In time we will say more, as and when we are able. For now, our thoughts and our love are with Matty’s family, his friends, and everyone who loved him around the world.”

There is no doubt that Perry will be deeply missed, not only for the million laughs he gave us, but also for his work in helping those with addiction. 

matthew perry

RIP: Matthew Perry

Matthew Perry was probably the actor who brought the most joy to my life out of anyone. His ability to turn any line into a comedic one was unmatched. But, as you have seen, Perry’s life spanned beyond Friends and this must be remembered. Whilst he was a comedy genius, he was also someone that struggled with addiction issues. Nonetheless, his deep rooted goodness allowed him to use his struggles to help others. This will always be remembered. Matthew Perry, thank you for everything. 

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