Page 56 - IJSA, Vol. 6, No 1, 2023

International Journal of Science Annals, Vol. 6, No. 1, 2023
рrint ISSN: 2617-2682; online ISSN: 2707-3637; DOI:10.26697/ijsa

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Integrating Meditation Practice into

Thanatophobia Therapy
Ho T. T. H. 1

1 Lincoln University College, Malaysia

Received: 31.05.2023; Accepted: 22.06.2023; Published: 30.06.2023

Abstract
Background and We explore the potential effectiveness of incorporating maranassati meditation
Aim of Study: into therapeutic practices, highlighting its ability to mitigate thanatophobia and
improve psychological well-being. Drawing upon Buddhist psychological
perspectives, maranassati emphasizes the contemplation of mortality,
impermanence, and interconnectedness.
The aim of the study: to integrate Buddhist meditative practice into thanatophobia
therapy.
This article presents research evidence from real-world scenarios involving
individuals with coronary artery disease, cancer patients, and the elderly. The
initial findings provide a solid foundation, reinforcing the efficacy of mindfulness-
based therapies in reducing death anxiety and improving psychological well-
being. The proposed approach offers valuable insights for counselors and
therapists in assisting future clients in cultivating a positive outlook on death,
thereby alleviating fear and anxiety associated with mortality.

Keywords: meditation, contemplating, cognitive therapy, thanatophobia, maranassati,
Buddhist practice
Copyright: © 2023 Ho T. T. H. Published by Archives of International Journal of Science
Annals
DOI and UDC DOI https://doi.org/10.26697/ijsa.2023.1.6 UDC 159.98:615.8:24-17
Conflict of interests: The author declares that there is no conflict of interests
Peer review: Double-blind review
Source of support: This research did not receive any outside funding or support
Information about Ho Thi Thu Hang – https://orcid.org/0009-0002-5383-2815;
the author: [email protected]; PhD Student, Centre of Postgraduate
Studies, Lincoln University College, Selangor, Malaysia.

Dear Editor,
While contemporary science studies consciousness, Black (1977/2014) provides an ethical and practical
social interactions, and emotional and moral responses in approach to understanding the dying process, focusing on
the study of the dying process, Buddhism simplifies them the heart, lungs, and brain. However, traditional vital
for introspection and reflection (MN 9, Trans. by Sujato, signs such as circulation and respiration challenge the
n. d.). Buddhist practice, dating back 2,600 years, unveils determination of death in modern medicine. Black
an understanding of demise encompassing both physical suggests considering additional connotations and
and mental aspects. conflicting meanings of the dying process in light of
“What is death? The passing away, perishing, societal pressures. In line with this, Hoffman (1979)
disintegration, demise, mortality, death, decease, presents three perspectives on the meaning of death,
breaking up of the aggregates, laying to rest of the emphasizing brain function, brain and heart/lung
corpse, and cutting off of the life faculty of the function, and the value of artificial means. While clinical
various sentient beings in the various orders of death primarily concerns biological function, it often
sentient beings. This is called death.” overlooks emotional reactions and moral judgments.
(Sammāditthi Sutta (M i.46). Hoffman’s ethical implications underscore the
It was only in the last quarter of the 20th century that importance of nurturing relationships and valuing human
science has reevaluated the concept of death as the life. Biomedical ethics support ethical choices amidst
cessation of vital functions, prompting exploration in ongoing debates on death.
literature and biomedical ethics.

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