Tuesday, November 21, 7 pm - 9 pm
Tom Tom Foundation, 100 W. South St.
This workshop is presented with UVA’s Division of Perceptual Studies.
We will explore the profound and transformative concept of conscious dying and explore the fear of death and dying that often prevents such. This workshop offers a unique opportunity for individuals to embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, aligning themselves with a more mindful and enlightened perspective on death and dying.
Warm-up and Connecting: A warm-up exercise will be facilitated to encourage attendees to reflect on their feelings, thoughts, and preconceived notions surrounding death and dying and share these with others. This will help anchor the attendees in their emotions, sensations, and thoughts and allow them then to connect with others on these levels.
Discussion of research: The discussion will include research on the fear of death and dying and the consequences of such on individuals and communities. This includes the concept of terror management and the role of consciousness in our fears. Meaning-making and cultivation of altered consciousness, including via meditation and psychedelics will be explored as strategies to approach death and dying in a more conscious and productive manner. The importance of approaching death in a more conscious and intentional manner will be highlighted. Participants will be encouraged to share their insights, experiences, and queries, fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment. Finally, meditations on the impermanence of life and death as a part of life will be conducted. The presentation will conclude with a reflective session, where participants will have the opportunity to share their experiences, insights, and thoughts regarding meditation and the overall concept of conscious dying. Practical advice on incorporating end-of-life meditation into daily practice will be provided, promoting ongoing self-exploration and peace with mortality.
All tickets are donation based on a sliding scale ($15 - $35). Please pay what you can to support the series.
FACILITATORS
Jennifer “Kim” Penberthy, Ph.D., ABPP is the Chester F. Carlson Professor of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, where she conducts research, teaches, and provides clinical care. She is a board-certified licensed clinical psychologist who has been practicing for over 20 years. Dr. Penberthy provides clinical treatment to patients in Psychiatry and the University of Virginia Cancer Center and also works with healthcare workers at UVA and nationally.
Paul Beyer is the founder of the Tom Tom Foundation and Tom Tom Festival, and in his role as executive director, is responsible for its strategic vision and community partnerships. Beyond Tom Tom, Paul works on a variety of gatherings and events ranging from festivals, dance parties, dinner series, meditations, men's groups, conferences, seminars, and concerts.
CO-HOST
UVA Division of Perceptual Studies (UVA DOPS), founded in 1967 by Dr. Ian Stevenson, is a university-based research group. It is devoted to the investigation of phenomena that challenge mainstream scientific paradigms regarding the nature of human consciousness. The core research mission of DOPS is the rigorous evaluation of empirical evidence for exceptional human experiences and capacities that bear on whether the mind and brain are distinct and separable and whether consciousness survives physical death.
ABOUT THE SERIES
This year-long series picks up critical themes from our April Festival and continues the conversations to create an impact in Charlottesville. Each Tomorrow Talk session is facilitated with an emphasis on participation, connection, and new collaborations.
Tomorrow Talks begin with a connection exercise or meditation and proceed into a presentation and breakout activities. They aim to impart knowledge that is practical and relevant to people's lived experience; combining academic or theoretical insights, alongside pragmatic tools, and experiential and somatic learnings.
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