Transcendental Meditation

Transcendental Meditation also known as TM was created by 1958 by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in Madras, India. He claimed it was a form of deep rest he derived from teachings in one of the Hindu holy books referred to as the Vedas. This as well as many other works he’d performed throughout his long life made him a very well known and much beloved spiritual leader. Unfortunately he passed away this year and the world seems a little bit darker without him. In memory of him this short piece is presented regarding his greatest gift to humanity.

Despite its origin TM is a source of non-denominational spirituality rather than a form of religious dedication that millions of people throughout the world have discovered over the past few decades. Transcendental Meditation can be performed anywhere that you can sit comfortably and quietly for a few minutes. When beginning Transcendental Meditation one typically undergoes several group sessions of about an hour each with instructors to help you enter the right frame of mind. Unlike many forms of meditation TM does not involve concentration or contemplation and can best be described as a state of restful alertness.

TM is comprised of two twenty minute sessions each day where the practitioner sits with his/her eyes closed and recites a simple mantra. After each session one will feel a powerful sense of peace and relaxation untainted by drowsiness. Further long term benefits are myriad and extensively recorded. Studies have reported finding a positive correlation between the Transcendental Meditation technique and health-related conditions, including decreased smoking, decreased alcohol use, decreased anxiety, decreased insomnia, reduction of high blood pressure, and the reductions of high cholesterol.

Medical studies performed showed that a person during a TM session experiences a physiological relaxation response. Heart rate and respiration decreases and the body regenerates itself in the same manner as a person experiencing deep sleep. But EEG tests show an increase in brain activity, greater coherence, and an integration of brain functioning. Chemical tests show that the body of someone who regularly practices TM also is better able to regulate hormones and serotonin levels, resulting in less stress and emotional problems or disorders.

This process is patented and as a result cannot be disclosed, though many TM organizations exist throughout the world and one can easily obtain further in depth information and training in TM free of charge.