Fear of dying, the real reason for emotions and the first step to happiness

The true nature of the feeling that I'm afraid to die

How the fear of death is born

　The reason why you feel "fearful of dying" is strongly linked to human instincts. As living beings, humans are instinctively wary of the unknown situation of death, as they take survival as their number one priority. This fear is a natural response for self-preservation and has also played an important role in avoiding external enemies and dangerous situations.

　Additionally, the unique abilities of humans with the ability to think complicate this fear. Because we have the power to think about the future and learn from past experiences, we are more likely to feel vague anxiety by being aware of the irreversibility and inexplicability of death. As a result, fear is created as a strong emotional response when you realize that dying is inevitable.

What is tanatophobia? An explanation from a psychological perspective

　"Tanatophobia" is a psychological term that refers to the fear of excessive death. This concept has been studied in the field of psychiatry and can in some cases cause a strong fear response that interferes with everyday life. People with tanatophobia tend to be more likely to be afraid of death and the loss of a loved one, not just death itself.

　Psychologist Sigmund Freud points out that the background to this fear is influenced by "unconsciously suppressed emotions" and "relaxation for life." It is also believed that in modern psychology, tanatophobia is formed in some parts of the experiences of childhood and the influence of social environment. On the other hand, counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy are considered effective ways to overcome fear.

How to perceive death as a spiritual pain

　Spiritual pain refers to the spiritual and spiritual pain you feel when you face death. This pain often arises from anxiety about the "end of life" that death means, and questions about the fundamental meaning of one's existence. It is said that spiritual pain is particularly prone to becoming more serious among people, such as in Japan, who do not have a specific view on life and death.

　Spiritual care is attracting attention as a way to relieve spiritual pain. This is an approach to providing peace of mind to those approaching death. In the workplace of home nursing and caregiving, we provide effective support to respect the dignity of patients and reaffirm the meaning of life. Through this kind of care, it is possible to alleviate the fear of death itself and to gain peace of mind.

Fear of death and human instinctive responses

　Fear of death can be said to be a human instinctive response. In particular, when it becomes persistent and strong, it has been scientifically revealed that this is the result of the reaction of the "amygdala" part of the brain. This part serves to control emotional processing and issues an alarm for those deemed unknown or dangerous. Fear of death can be caused by excessive activation of this alarm.

　Fear is also reinforced by social learning. The reactions of those around you, the cultural taboos to death, and even the media's influences can shape the image of death more negatively. Understanding this background is the first step in exploring ways to overcome the fear of death.

"Unfortunate" and "Anxiety" hidden behind the fear

　In reality, "relaxation" and "anxiety" often lies behind the fear of death. For example, the regrets about not being able to accomplish everything you want to do, and the anxiety of leaving the people you care about can manifest as concrete forms. There are also cases where people feel helpless, imagining what will happen in the world after they are gone.

　In particular, the moment we realize the finiteness of life, we tend to think deeply about the flow of time and future events. This process can also amplify the fear of "dying" itself. However, being able to calmly organize these feelings can also be an opportunity to reaffirm what is important to you. Here are some tips to help you live a rich life in the present despite worrying about death.

The significance of facing the "fear of death"

The importance of having a view on life and death

　The first step to facing the "fear of death" is for an individual to have his own view of life and death. The view of life and death refers to the way you think about death and life and values. Having this will help you reduce your confusion and anxiety in your life. Each individual's view on life and death is formed by their family environment, culture, religious background, etc., but it is important to think carefully for yourself and grasp death in a way that is satisfying. For example, in overcoming tanatophobia (the fear of death), it can also be helpful to imagine what will happen after death and find a sense of security within it.

When you feel the "fear of death", the important thing is to look at the value of "living in the present." By being aware of the finiteness of life, every day will feel even more adorable. When you develop the habit of looking back at the end of the day, "What was the moment when I felt happy today?", you will feel more joy in focusing on the present. Various religions and philosophies also place importance on the teaching of living in this moment. Rather than being caught up in anxiety about the past or future, looking to this moment is the best way to calm your mind.

　Confronting death provides an opportunity to think more deeply about the meaning of life. The question "What am I living for now?" can sometimes come to mind when I am aware of the fear of death. This is the important moment to rediscover the purpose and value of life. For example, if "death" symbolizes finiteness, the challenge is how fulfilling you can live your days within it. By being aware of the end of life, you will be able to feel even more precious about the small joys of everyday life and connections with others.

Wisdom from our ancestors to overcome fear

　When we explore ways to overcome the "fear of death," we have learned a variety of wisdom from ancient times to the present day. For example, the philosopher Epicurus expounded, "Death is a state in which no sense exists and there is no need to fear it." In Japanese Buddhism, the teaching of "a lifetime a day" to cherish every moment is widely known as a way of thinking that relieves the fear of death. Also, from a spiritual perspective, the idea of ​​soul permanence and reincarnation can provide peace of mind. The knowledge and wisdom of our ancestors will also greatly help us living in the present day.

Religion and philosophy speaks of death and its role

　Religion and philosophy have been powerful guidance from ancient times to address the "fear of death." Religion often presents an afterlife and gives congregations. For example, in Christianity, the concept of heaven symbolizes peace after death, while in Buddhism, the Pure Land is a peaceful state. On the other hand, philosophy also views death as just a natural phenomenon. In modern Japan, many people are not bound by a particular religion, but by referring to philosophy and religious teachings, it can help deepen your understanding of death and reduce anxiety.

Modern psychology solves the power to overcome death

　Modern psychology also offers many tips for overcoming the "fear of death." For example, in the field of psychology, it is recommended to organize your emotions by discussing and accepting death. There are also ways to focus on the present moment and reduce anxiety about the past and future through practice of mindfulness. Furthermore, certain psychotherapy may also provide training to face symptoms like tanatophobia in a safe environment and overcome them. This approach allows us to see "death" as a part of life rather than as an enemy.

"Acceptance of death" as the first step towards happiness

Specific ways to accept death

　The key to overcome the "fear of death" is to first accept it rather than hide it as fear. From a spiritual perspective, it is important to see death as a part of nature and to think about the values ​​you have cherished in your life up until now. For example, writing a diary can help you to relieve excessive fear of death by reflecting on past joys and gratitude. It is also effective to organize your mind through expert counseling and conversations with trustworthy people. Death is inevitable, but how you accept it creates peace of mind.

Practices to achieve mindfulness and mental stability

　Mindfulness techniques that allow you to focus your attention on your current self are extremely effective in dealing with anxiety surrounding death. Daily habits incorporating meditation and deep breathing can help calm the mind and help you to stabilize your mind. For example, just sitting quietly and focusing on your breathing can help you concentrate on the moment. This method of freeing you from unnecessary worries and fear of the future is also attracting attention as a spiritual care service. It is also widely adopted in medical settings, and is becoming a practical method that reduces anxiety and increases happiness.

How to build a view of life and death that leads to happiness

　Building a "view of life and death" to live a happy life is key to a deep understanding of the meaning of life. By accepting "living" and "dying" as a continuous flow, rather than a conflict, we change the way we see death. For example, reading philosophical books and exploring your own values, or listening to religious teachings, can help you build a more gentle view of life and death. Also, being grateful in everyday life can help alleviate your fear of death. Ehara Hiroyuki also states that "checking the present" is the key to happiness.

The importance of the idea of ​​"living in the present"

　When you feel the "fear of death", the important thing is to look at the value of "living in the present." By being aware of the finiteness of life, every day will feel even more adorable. When you develop the habit of looking back at the end of the day, "What was the moment when I felt happy today?", you will feel more joy in focusing on the present. Various religions and philosophies also place importance on the teaching of living in this moment. Rather than being caught up in anxiety about the past or future, looking to this moment is the best way to calm your mind.

A sense of relief that comes through connections with others

　Connecting with others is extremely important in reducing your fear of death. You can find empathy and support through interactions with close friends and family, or with communities that share the same anxiety. Just as care worker listeners provided mental stability through dialogue with older people, connecting with others can help relieve themselves of loneliness and anxiety. Rather than "fearing death alone," you can find peace of mind by sharing your feelings with someone. In addition, warm interaction with others is essential to alleviate spiritual pain.

The meaning of life found by facing death

The value of life that shines through seeing death

　If you face the theme of "death" head-on without avoiding it, you will feel more vividly the preciousness of being alive. As you think about how to overcome the fear of death, you will realize that every moment of your everyday life is precious. For example, in one nursing field, there is an example in which a care worker who witnesses a patient facing his final moments has learned the importance of continuing his own everyday life, as a gift in itself. In this way, being aware of death will naturally lead to actions that will make the life in front of you shine.

The trigger to be free from fear of the future

　Many say that fear and anxiety about death stems from an "invisible future." However, having a perspective that embraces death as a natural event can free your mind from excessive anxiety about the future. For example, even people who felt a strong fear of death in their childhood can cultivate a heart that "be grateful for the present" through messages from those around them, such as their parents and grandparents. Just as Ehara Hiroyuki explains the importance of managing spiritual pain, internal stability is the first step to calm fear and a sense of security for the future.

"Finiteness" teaches important life choices

　People strive to make better choices by thinking about how to spend their time within a limited amount of time. By being aware of "finiteness," you will develop the ability to choose meaningful actions rather than wasting time. One listener's worries about what to do for the rest of his life have turned into an opportunity to find something he really wants to cherish. It is because death has a final destination that people have a strong motivation to live in the present.

The growth and learning that the experience of death gives

　The experience of death before us sometimes brings immeasurable growth and learning. For example, people who have taken care of their families after a long life in care often feel sad and at the same time the significance of "the value of life" and "connection with others." Death marks the end of life, and also provides an important lesson to reexamine the meaning of life. Not only is it fearful, but it's also important to look at what learning you can gain, which is the key to moving on to the next stage.

How to enjoy the moment you live more

　The most important thing that comes to light when understanding "death" is the importance of "living in the present." For example, mental stability can be achieved through mindfulness practices. This technique is said to have the effect of focusing on the present moment to prevent anxiety from becoming trapped in, and helps you feel happy. Additionally, by incorporating a spiritual perspective, you can find tips to deepen your everyday life. For example, by appreciating nature's beauty and warm interactions with others, your fear of death will gradually be lighter and you will feel more and more alive.

Shokey Hayashi

Exorcist/Radionics Technique Researcher

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Born in Aomori Prefecture in 1965, he has been suffering from troubles, illnesses and injuries caused by spiritual phenomena since childhood. However, one day, when he was 20 years old, he attended an event, had a mysterious experience at the venue, and was hit by lightning energy from the heavens, as if piercing the spinal cord from his brain, and his psychic abilities blossomed. He then began studying psychology and psychiatry, and now he has combined psychiatry and consciousness engineering. Established "Radionics exorcism" using our own radionics techniques. "It's possible to treat your fortune" beyond exorcism, memorial service, and healing.