Transcendental Meditation

Transcendental Meditation (TM) is a simple, natural, and effortless technique practiced for 20 minutes twice a day, while sitting comfortably with the eyes closed. It was introduced by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in the 1950s and has since gained popularity worldwide for its ease and the profound benefits it can bring to practitioners.

What is Transcendental Meditation?

At its core, TM involves the use of a mantra—a specific sound or phrase that is repeated silently. This mantra is chosen by a certified TM teacher for the individual practitioner and is used to help the mind settle down and transcend ordinary thinking, leading to a state of restful alertness. Unlike other forms of meditation that might focus on concentration or mindfulness, TM aims to allow the mind to effortlessly settle inward, beyond thought, to experience the most silent and peaceful level of consciousness.

Experiences During Transcendental Meditation

The experiences during TM can vary from person to person, but there are common themes many practitioners report:

1. Deep Relaxation and Rest: One of the immediate experiences during TM is a profound sense of relaxation and restfulness. Practitioners often feel as though they are diving into deeper levels of their own consciousness, leaving behind the stress and tension of daily life.
2. Transcending: The core experience of TM is the act of transcending, or going beyond the usual boundaries of thought and experience. Practitioners describe this as a feeling of ‘coming home’ or accessing a state of pure consciousness—a field of silence and peace that underlies all activity.
3. Clarity and Expanded Awareness: As the mind settles down, many report experiencing increased clarity of thought and an expansion of awareness. It’s as if the mental ‘noise’ has been turned down, allowing for a clearer perception of the self and the world.
4. Bliss and Joy: Many practitioners experience feelings of bliss, joy, and happiness during TM. This is often described as a bubbling up of positive emotions from within, a natural outcome of experiencing the silent, blissful state of pure consciousness.
5. Inner Peace and Calmness: After a TM session, practitioners often report feeling more peaceful and calm. This inner peace can carry over into daily activities, helping individuals to handle stress and challenges with greater ease.
6. Increased Creativity and Problem-Solving Ability: With the mind rested and refreshed, many find that they are more creative and better at solving problems. This is often attributed to the mind being less cluttered with stress and more open to new ideas and insights.
7. Connection to a Deeper Sense of Self: Over time, regular practice of TM can lead to a deeper understanding and connection to one’s true self, beyond the ego and daily concerns. This can lead to profound personal growth and a more fulfilling life.

In conclusion, Transcendental Meditation offers a simple yet powerful way to access deeper levels of consciousness and experience profound peace and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, personal growth, or a deeper understanding of yourself, TM can be a valuable tool on your journey.