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Transcendental Meditation (TM), just as mindful meditation has at its core ancient knowledge from Indian writings, some of the oldest traditions in the world.
Prior to its introduction to the United States in 1959 by Maharuishi Mahesh Yogi, people in the western world were skeptical that the practice of meditation could increase a person’s energy, improve thinking, enhance emotional stability, improve health and decrease dependence on drugs. An article appearing in a 1970 edition of Science Magazine entitled “Psychological Effects of Transcendental Meditation” convinced many around the world that TM produces profound beneficial change.
Do it Anywhere
More than just a relaxation technique, TM has as its goal a systematic unfolding of the state of enlightenment that already exists within each of us. TM is a simple, natural mental exercise that produces deep rest in the body and clarity of the mind. It is neither a religion nor a philosophy, requires no lengthy course study or specific powers, no special setting or equipment, or any unusual positions or attitude. It can be performed anywhere a person can sit in comfort for two 15- to 20-minute morning and evening sessions. In fact, many busy people meditate at work, school, on their bus or subway ride, on planes, even in waiting rooms at the doctor’s office and at the train station or airport while waiting to embark.
As with most meditation, students select a mantra, or have one selected for them. A mantra is a special word or sound that takes no effort when said or thought. When repeated over and over it engenders a feeling of tranquility, and allows one to disengage from the endless stream of thoughts (monkey brain), feelings and perceptions of daily life. You “transcend” into pure awareness, or a feeling of almost being asleep but at the same time fully awake inside. The result is a very efficient, self-generated “house cleaning” leaving the individual renewed and refreshed.
Natural Anxiety Reducer
Because transcendental meditation has been shown to reduce anxiety, it may be the best of the nonprofessional psychotherapies, acording to Dr. Louis J. West, chairman of the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Department of Psychiatry. Maladaptive anxiety is the common denominator of nearly all mental illness and TM may be highly useful in the treatment of a wide range of diagnostic categories. Numerous research reports indicate TM is a valuable addition to treatment of anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), chronic low-grade depression, identity crisis, illness anxiety disorder and stress.
You’re in Control
Another positive effect of TM in therapy is it puts the individual in total control. Unlike with medication, a person’s sense of improved well being results not from a prescription or a therapy session, but derives from his own efforts. TM has no negative side effects and does what medication cannot do: promote natural psychological growth.
Other studies suggest that drug abuse appears to lessen with TM. The longer an individual practices TM the sharper the decline in some substance use such as marijuana. A study of 2,000 meditators showed a drastic reduction in their use of marijuana.
Lastly and perhaps most importantly, the practice of TM may actually help prevent some illnesses and promote a healthy lifestyle.
This report is not a diagnosis. We hope this information can guide you toward improving your life.
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