“There is no key to happiness; the door is always open.” - Mother Teresa
Bhutan is a good example of a country following that. As a nation and a culture, the South-Asian country has managed to be one of the happiest places in the world, for a long time and what is even more interesting is the way it does this.
The Bhutanese culture emphasises on everyone to think of Death, atleast five times a day! It is believed that the fear of dying binds the mind in many ways and ultimately blocks the flow of positivity. Being at ease with death just makes living easier.
So, how does it work?
Thinking about death is naturally depressing. Yet, researchers conclude that, “death is a psychologically threatening fact, but when people contemplate it, apparently the automatic system begins to search for happy thoughts.” Doing so on a daily basis gradually eliminates the fear of leaving this world and without fear, a new vision towards life begins to develop.
Even the doctors there prescribe this therapy to outsiders who might be facing mental or even physical issues in life. Bhutan does not shy away from depicting death even in its art forms or temples. Bhutan has found a way to cultivate strength through an idea that induces fear in the minds of others, which is ingenious (and scientifically proven!)
Here, the Buddhist temples and monasteries depict death and pain in gruesome images and dances. Children are exposed to this ideology early in life, making it easier for them to accept and implement, which is accepted as the foundation of a sound and happy life.
How to Contemplate Death?
In Bhutan, the people make contemplation of death, a part of their daily routine, just like they say their prayers in other cultures. In the morning, people thank God for waking up and acknowledge the fact that it might be their last breakfast. At noon, they are thankful for the sunshine and think it could possibly be the last time they are feeling its warmth. The same thoughts are considered before lunch, the evening meal and dinner.
Death Rituals
When a person in Bhutan passes away, 49 days of mourning rituals are followed. These rituals are taken very seriously and accompanied by lavish food arrangements. Though the mourners seem detached, they do feel grief, deeply. They have only accepted the fact that this was meant to be.
While most of us try to find a place to lock away the idea of death or dying one day, the people of Bhutan have accepted it as a part of their life. And this could very well be the reason for their remarkably unswerving happiness.
Being a chaser of happiness myself, I am implementing this in my daily routine from today and I know where to move to, after retirement. Acceptance brings happiness. Here's wishing you all the happiness in the world!