What is Maranasati meditation?

Maranasati meditation, as discussed by Arthur C. Brooks, is a death meditation practice. It involves recognizing the transient nature of life and pondering the inevitability of death. This practice helps in coping with the fear of failure and the illusion of life's tragedies by embracing the concept of "ashes to ashes, dust to dust," indicating that new life will emerge from one's death.

Brooks explains that by meditating on one's academic and professional failures, individuals, like his Harvard students, learn to confront and master their fears. Scenarios might include imagining falling behind academically, facing job market challenges, or dealing with parental disappointment. By staring into these fears and contemplating death, individuals can overcome their anxieties and grow stronger 1.

This guided exploration of impermanence helps build resilience and detachment from obsessive success addiction.