When I first stumbled upon the concept of Memento Mori a few years ago, it left me both intrigued and uncomfortable. The notion of contemplating my own mortality, especially at a young age, seemed like an unsettling thought. After all, who wants to spend their precious moments fixated on thoughts of death? Little did I know that delving deeper into this practice would reveal its true power and its essence as a mindfulness tool
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In my mid-twenties, I was hardly eager to confront my mortality. Life was vibrant and bustling, and thoughts of death felt out of place. However, my perspective shifted as I dug into the philosophy of Stocism and its practice of Memento Mori. Rather than a dark obsession with death, it emerged as a practice in mindfulness. I began to understand that it was less about the end itself and more about appreciating the journey.
My introduction to mindfulness traces back to my teenage years – a period marked by uncontrollable anxiety and panic attacks. Prescribed medications left me feeling detached, as though I was watching life unfold from a distance. Unsatisfied with this state, I embarked on a quest to find a more holistic approach. This journey led me to the wisdom of my grandmother, who introduced me to valerian and lavender tea, a remedy that may have tasted awful but effectively soothed my anxious mind. She also opened the door to meditation and mindfulness practices, which sparked my exploration of self-help and introspection. These practices empowered me to observe my thoughts and recognize that I was separate from them, a crucial realization that laid the foundation for my future growth.
The path led me to Stoicism, a philosophy that intertwined seamlessly with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Starting with modern authors like Ryan Holiday, I dived into Stoicism's core principles. With every page turned, I unearthed the teachings of ancient Stoic thinkers. Among them, Marcus Aurelius stood out as a mentor in the practice of Memento Mori. Through his practical insights, I understood that this practice was about savoring life's nuances.
Memento Mori is not a morbid practice. It is a reminder that life is precious and that we should live each day to the fullest. It is a practice that can help us to become more courageous, compassionate, and understanding.
How to Practice Memento Mori and Mindfulness
Daily Reflection
Take a few moments each day to reflect on the impermanence of life. Remind yourself that your time here is limited, motivating you to make the most of every moment.
Gratitude Journal
Keep a journal where you jot down things you're grateful for. This practice shifts your focus from what's lacking to the abundance in your life.
Carry a reminder of your own mortality with you.
This could be a memento mori necklace, a bracelet, or a piece of jewelry. It could also be a passage from a Stoic text or a poem about death. Perhaps a tattoo.
Spend time in nature.
Being in nature can help us to connect with our own mortality and to appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
Meditate on the impermanence of life.
There are many different meditation techniques that can help you to do this. One simple technique is to focus on your breath and to notice how it changes from moment to moment.
Read Stoic texts.
Stoic philosophers such as Marcus Aurelius and Seneca wrote extensively about Memento Mori. Reading their work can help you to understand the Stoic perspective on death and to incorporate Memento Mori into your own life.
Mindful Presence
Engage fully in your experiences. Whether it's savoring a meal, feeling the breeze on your skin, or truly listening to a loved one, immerse yourself in the present moment.
Contemplation of Death
Instead of avoiding thoughts of death, embrace them mindfully. Recognize that this contemplation can deepen your appreciation for life's fleeting beauty.
Stoic Principles
Explore Stoic philosophy and its teachings on embracing what's within your control and letting go of what isn't. Apply these principles to daily challenges.
Breathing Exercises
Incorporate deep breathing exercises into your routine. This helps ground you in the present and calms anxious thoughts.
Mindful Activities
Engage in activities with heightened awareness. Whether it's sipping tea, going for a walk, or simply breathing, practice mindfulness in everyday tasks.
The true test of this practice arrived when life threw an unexpected curveball – a stroke. Suddenly, the mundane tasks I had taken for granted became cherished blessings. Activities like tying my shoes or changing my daughter's diaper turned into victories. During that challenging period, the concept of Memento Mori became even more meaningful. Confronting the fragility of life highlighted the necessity of cherishing each moment, regardless of how ordinary it might appear. Surviving a close brush with death left me with lasting disabilities, serving as a constant reminder of life's impermanence.
Before my stroke, my reminder was a silver wax seal pendant necklace. One side of the pendant features a skull and the phrase "memento mori" (remember death), while the other side depicts a sailor and reads "memento vivire" (remember to live). This pendant used to remind me that death could be just around the corner. However, after my experience, it has transformed into a symbol that encourages me to fully embrace life.
Even my once-stressful job underwent a transformation. Gratitude replaced frustration as I learned to appreciate my coworkers and the opportunities that my job provided. The principles of Stoicism and mindfulness guided me to manage stress, focus on the present, and let go of needless worry. Each setback was met with the resilience to bounce back, knowing that every challenge was a stepping stone on this journey.
In a world filled with distractions, the practice of Memento Mori invites us to pause and truly live. It's a reminder that life's brevity doesn't need to be feared but embraced. Through mindfulness and Stoic philosophy, I've cultivated a deeper appreciation for the smallest moments. This practice has given me the tools to navigate life's uncertainties with grace, to cherish experiences over possessions, and to find contentment in the ebb and flow of existence. Memento Mori is not a morbid fixation; it's an invitation to dance with life, one mindful step at a time
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