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Scrapes with Death
Near-death experiences, 101
A near-death experience usually occurs in the wake of a traumatic physical event or a reversible clinical death, such as when someone is revived after a heart attack. While the experience varies, NDEs commonly feature a feeling of detachment from the body, visions of bright lights, a warped sense of time, or religious experiences.

Records of NDEs go back to the ancient Greeks and are found across cultures all over the world. The first known clinical observation was recorded in 18th-century France. In the 1970s, psychiatrist Raymond Moody pioneered the academic study of NDEs as medical events after an acquaintance relayed his own near-death experience.

Roughly 5% of the population is estimated to have a memory of an NDE, with common reports of a feeling of peacefulness (80%), followed by bright lights (69%) and encountering other people or spirits (64%).

... Read our full explainer on NDEs here.

Also, check out ...
> An avowed rationalist discusses his near-death experience. (More)
> A look at the connections between religious experience and NDEs. (More)
> The nation's premier NDE research institute is in Virginia. (More)
> "Terminal lucidity" describes the clarity experienced during NDEs. (More)



Preserving Assets
What are trusts?
Trusts are estate planning tools used to designate assets to specific beneficiaries (read 101). They can hold a wide range of assets, including cash, real estate, stocks, businesses, and more. If a trust holds cash, that pool of cash is often considered a “trust fund,” although the definition of “trust funds” in particular is nebulous. See the many kinds of trusts here.

The concept of trusts dates back to ancient Rome, though they were further developed in medieval England. During the Crusades, when crusaders left for battle, they would often leave their land and other assets behind to “trusted” friends.

Trusts are often associated with the ultrawealthy, though many personal finance experts argue that individuals of various net worths should consider establishing a trust. The median trust fund contains roughly $285K.

... Read our full write-up on trusts here.

Also, check out ...
> The pet owners leaving behind trusts for their pets. (More)
> Trusts can reduce tax liability on estates. (More)
> Social Security is handled through two trust funds. (More)
> Infamous scammer Anna Sorokin lied about having a $67M trust fund. (More)

SOURCE:  1440 NEWS