The important thing is this: to be able, at any moment, to sacrifice what we are for what we could become.

– Maharishi Mahesh Yogi

I have received numerous questions about it from friends and family so that’s exactly what this blog post aims to provide: light insights into the world of Transcendental Meditation.

I will explain what Transcendental Meditation is, where it originated, how it works, the benefits it provides, what it takes to study it and how you can get in touch with a local TM teacher. If you have any questions please feel free to comment below!

What is Transcendental Meditation?

TM is a unique form of meditation practised 20 minutes twice daily, sitting comfortably with your eyes closed. It is simple and profoundly effective. I was taught that anyone who can think can practise Transcendental Meditation (which is everyone!).

The technique allows the activity of the mind to settle down in a natural way until it is left quiet, yet wide awake. It allows stress and tiredness to be dissolved naturally, resulting in greater energy, clarity and enjoyment of life.

I have to mention that Transcendental Meditation is not bound to any religious or philosophical beliefs and will not interfere with your existing beliefs. It is a simple mental technique. People often find that regular meditation gives clarity and perspective to their highest aspirations.

The Origin of TM

Transcendental Meditation was founded by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi (12 January 1918 – 5 February 2008), also known as the “giggling guru” because he often laughed wildly in TV interviews. He was born as Mahesh Prasad Varma and obtained the honorific Maharishi (meaning “Great Seer”) and Yogi as an adult. Maharishi Mahesh Yogi became a disciple and assistant of Swami Brahmananda Saraswati, the Shankaracharya (spiritual leader) of Jyotirmath in the Indian Himalayas. The Maharishi credits Brahmananda Saraswati with inspiring his teachings. In 1955, the Maharishi began to introduce his Transcendental Deep Meditation (later renamed Transcendental Meditation) to India and the world.

How does it work?

Transcendental Meditation allows your mind to settle inward beyond thought to the most silent, peaceful level of consciousness, also known as your innermost Self. This deeply restful experience of transcending rejuvenates mind and body, leading to a wide range of benefits…

The technique allows the activity of the mind to settle down in a natural way until it is left quiet, yet fully conscious and aware. It allows stress and tiredness to be dissolved naturally, resulting in greater energy, creativity, clarity and enjoyment of life.

Health Benefits

Over 350 published, peer-reviewed research studies on the TM technique have documented its effectiveness for stress-related conditions, brain function, and more such as:

Greater inner calm throughout the day
Reduced cortisol (the “stress hormone”)
Normalized blood pressure
Reduced insomnia
Lower risk of heart attack and stroke
Reduced anxiety and depression
Improved brain function and memory

Follow this link to read more about the in-depth research of the benefits of TM: https://www.tm.org/research-on-meditation

Learning Transcendental Meditation:

The First Step:

The first step is to go to a free introductory talk about Transcendental Meditation. This takes about an hour, free of charge and gives you a full overview of the technique and how it is learned. You can also discuss privately with the teacher any personal considerations. It’s all about becoming a little more informed about TM and there is no commitment to learn.

The Course:

The course consists of four 90-minute sessions on consecutive days followed by regular one-to-one sessions with your teacher, as well as periodic seminars over the first six months to ensure you are meditating correctly and enjoying the benefits. Even after the first instruction you will be able to meditate on your own at home.

Course Fees:

To make learning TM open to as many people as possible while covering the basic costs, the fee for learning TM is income-related. If you are not able to pay the full fee at once, you are given a six-month support programme to help you get the most out of your meditation.

Contact:

If you are in South Korea, I highly recommend training with Dr Lee and Geonah Lee. Below are their details:

Telephone: +82 2 598 3152
National Director: Lee Wongeun
Address: #601, Seil B/D, Cheonho-dong 4-2, Gangdong-gu, Seoul 134-861 S Korea

For any other international TM Centers, follow the link and simple search for your country: http://intl.tm.org/web/guest

“You are the master of all the laws of nature if you know the transcendental field.” 

– Maharishi Mahesh Yogi

You are loved,

Carmia