How does the perspective of Tibetan Buddhist monks on impermanence shape a positive attitude towards Death
International Journal of Global Mental Health Innovation Policy Action Culture & Transformation July 2, 2026 Dawa Dolma, Tenzin Yangdon
Contemplating impermanence, a core Buddhist concept, helps Tibetan Buddhist monastics develop a positive attitude toward death. Nine Geshe-degree monks were interviewed, and four themes emerged: acceptance of death, purposeful living through impermanence, spiritual readiness for death, and emotional resilience through impermanence. Regular reflection on impermanence was reported to eliminate fear and foster acceptance of mortality, serving as both a spiritual principle and a psychological tool for coping with loss, reducing attachment, and building emotional resilience.