Chasing the Present with James Sebastiano Jr. and Mark Waters
Nov 30, 2020
auto_awesome
Filmmakers James Sebastiano Jr. and Mark Waters discuss their documentary 'Chasing the Present'. Topics include anxiety, meditation, ayahuasca, plant medicines, embracing the present moment, and the impact of the film on mental health.
Meditation is crucial in managing anxiety and gaining distance from overwhelming thoughts.
Self-inquiry and understanding the mechanics of the mind lead to transformative shifts in perception.
Deep dives
Origin of the Film 'Chasing the Present'
The idea for the documentary 'Chasing the Present' stemmed from a personal struggle with stress and panic attacks experienced by James Sebastiano Jr. Initially, James and Mark Waters teamed up without the plan for James to be a subject in the film. However, the focus shifted to James' journey when he agreed to delve deep into his own struggles, paving the way for authentic storytelling.
Dealing with Anxiety and Panic Attacks
James Sebastiano Jr. shares his battles with anxiety, relating them partially to traumatic events in his past. The film highlights various methods employed to tackle anxiety effectively, with meditation emerging as a pivotal practice. Through this holistic approach, James found that meditation provided a crucial tool in gaining distance from overwhelming thoughts and physical symptoms associated with anxiety.
Self-Inquiry and Mind Mechanics
A significant aspect explored in the film 'Chasing the Present' involves self-inquiry and understanding the mechanics of the mind. Mark Waters delves into the concept of thoughts as beliefs and stories learned throughout life. The practice of self-inquiry, focusing on the root of thoughts, encourages individuals to observe and detach from their beliefs, leading to a transformative shift in perception.
The Power of Meditation and Presence
Both James Sebastiano Jr. and Mark Waters stress the transformative impact of meditation in fostering a deeper connection with oneself. Meditation, combined with the practice of presence, aids in managing anxiety, enhancing awareness, and experiencing gratitude in daily life. The duo emphasizes the importance of authenticity, openness, and sharing emotional struggles to inspire others to seek introspection and growth.