Transcendental Meditation*:
Personal. Proven. Practiced with ease.
Discover why it’s so beloved.

“ …TM cuts right to the chase, taking only days—or for some, minutes—before one feels reprieve from their painful and overwhelming thoughts.

“ ...TM doesn't focus on breathing or chanting, like other forms of meditation. Instead, it encourages a restful state of mind beyond thinking...

“ ...Studies have shown that TM can lessen anxiety, cut work stress, lower risk of heart disease and reduce levels of cortisol, your stress hormone.
Attend a free info session
Attend a group info session (in person or online) to learn more about TM from a certified TM teacher, including why it’s unique, how it works, and what makes it so effective. Duration: up to 1 hour
Sessions are available by appointment
Request a sessionReady to learn TM?
Learning Transcendental Meditation starts with personal instruction from a certified teacher. Book your course today and experience the benefits for yourself.
Book a TM courseNew to TM?
Dive into the basics—how Transcendental Meditation* is taught, what the research shows, and the benefits people experience.
Learn about TM- Meditation for depression - improve your mood
- Morning meditation: The power of morning practice
- Meditation for beginners: Learn how to get started
- David Lynch and Transcendental Meditation
- TM and calm - What's the difference?
- Clearer mind
- Improved relationships
- Better sleep
- Healthier heart
- Stress relief
- Heart health and meditation - lower risk of heart disease
- Meditation for stress - Cultivate your inner peace
- Meditation for anxiety - Finding inner calm
- Meditation for Sleep - Achieving Deep Rest
Meditation for depression?
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="30px"][vc_column_text css="" el_class="mw-590 light"]Depression is a mental health condition, affecting as many people in Australia. Some of its characteristics are a long-term lack of interest in activities, low mood, disrupted sleep, and low self-worth. Research shows that practising meditation for depression can be a huge help to people suffering.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]What is depression?
The World Health Organization defines depression as a depressed mood or loss of pleasure or interest in activities for long periods of time. Depression is different from regular mood changes and feelings about everyday life.¹ The symptoms of depression include:- poor concentration
- low self-worth
- hopelessness about the future
- suicidal thoughts
- disrupted sleep or insomnia
- feeling very tired or low in energy
Does meditation help help with depression?
When we are stressed, the frontal lobe—the part of our brain that governs decision-making, problem-solving, and our sense of self—goes offline. The connections between the different parts of the brain are disrupted, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and anxious. During meditation those connections are strengthened, and all parts of the brain become more coherent. And because of something called neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to repair and regenerate itself—those connections continue in our daily life with regular practice. That’s why people who meditate report that they make better decisions and are able to deal with life’s challenges in a more settled, calm way. One meditation technique that has been shown to greatly improve the symptoms of depression is Transcendental Meditation. [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][tm_text_image aside_image="340" aside_url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1020237037?h=6733bc4a3a&badge=0&autopause=0&player_id=0&app_id=58479" video_time="4 mins" text_background_image="29" select_alignment="image_left_text_right" select_minimum_height="mh-400" select_text_colour="text-dark" quote="watch this video to learn more about how TM can transform your life through deep relaxation and stress reduction."]What is the TM technique?
[/tm_text_image][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]What is calm?
The Calm app is an example of mindfulness practices. Calm offers guided meditations which help you stay present and aware of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment. Mindfulness is:- Rooted in tradition: originates in Buddhist practices
- Observational: encourages monitoring thoughts and feelings without trying to change them
- Flexible: can be practiced alone or with guidance, during various activities.
How TM differs from Calm
Transcendental Mediation is distinct from mindfulness apps like Calm:- Effortless: TM is done silently with eyes closed, and does not involve chanting, focus, intention, or contemplation
- Independence: once learned from a certified teacher, you can practice TM on your own, without use of an app
- More coherent brainwaves: TM induces alpha-one brainwaves linked to deep relaxation, which are measurably different to mindfulness
- Duration: TM is practiced for 20 minutes, twice a day, compared to Calm’s shorter sessions
- Personalised: the TM instruction is personalised for you, including a TM mantra (a beneficial sound without meaning)
- Transcendence: TM practice allows the mind to reach the source of thought, while mindfulness or guided meditations keep the mind on the surface level
How is TM different?
[/tm_text_image][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="40px"][one_column_text]What are the benefits of Transcendental Meditation
More than 600 peer-reviewed, published research studies have documented the wide range of benefits resulting from TM practice, including:-
- Physical health: better sleep and reduced blood pressure
- Mental health: less anxiety and effective PTSD treatment
- Personal growth: enhanced creativity, productivity, and self-actualization
- Spiritual development: deep fulfillment.
What are the benefits of Calm
Practicing mindfulness with the Calm app can result in:-
- Increased attentiveness to surroundings
- Greater awareness of breathing, body, and thoughts
- Enhanced presence and self-awareness
How TM practice reduces anxiety
A Stanford University meta-analysis of 146 independent studies found that TM is significantly more effective at reducing anxiety compared to other meditation techniques [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][vc_single_image image="304" css=""][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_empty_space height="40px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]Which tool is right for you?
If you seek relief from poor sleep, anxiety, lack of focus, or personal relationship difficulties, Transcendental Meditation could be the answer. Many people enjoy the Calm app, but to truly jumpstart your tranquility, join the millions who practice TM. Everyone can benefit from TM, whether struggling or not, by diving within twice a day to experience inner calm, greater creativity, and self-actualization. If you’re new to meditation, Calm and other mindfulness apps offer an accessible starting point.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""] [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1778679385811{background-image: url(http://tm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/tm-single-text-blue-yellow-lg.svg?id=333) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]TM: the only effortless, personalised, and evidence-based meditation technique
The first step to learning TM is attending a free info session with a local TM teacher. These sessions are available in person and online every day across Australia dive deeper into why TM is unique, how it works, and what makes it so effective.
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][vc_column_text css=""]What is Transcendental Meditation?
Transcendental Meditation (TM) is a simple, natural, and effortless meditation technique, which is practiced twice a day for 20 minutes while sitting comfortably with eyes closed. It does not involve concentration or control of the mind, or trying to clear the mind of thoughts. The TM technique allows your mind to naturally transcend, or easily settle inward, to quieter and quieter levels of thought, until you experience the most silent and peaceful level of your own awareness. When the mind settles down, the body also experiences deep rest. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][vc_single_image][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]Unlocking the power of morning meditation
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="30px"][vc_column_text css="" el_class="mw-590 light"]Morning meditation is more than just a serene start to your day; it's a practice that can transform your life. By incorporating morning meditation into your daily routine, you can experience a range of physical, mental, and emotional benefits.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]These days everyone seems to be extolling the benefits of morning meditation, from corporate CEOs to stressed-out parents, from healthcare professionals to Hollywood celebrities, from Healthline to the New York Times. So what exactly are the benefits of meditating in the morning, and how can we incorporate them into our daily lives?
The benefits of morning meditation
Beginning your day with some quiet introspection has wide-ranging benefits. With improvements to your mental, cognitive, emotional, and physical health, let's explore why morning meditation is so valuable.
Enhanced mental clarity
Starting your day with meditation can significantly improve your mental clarity. Morning meditation helps to clear away the mental clutter and sets a calm and focused tone for the rest of the day. This clarity can improve decision-making, problem-solving, and creativity.
Reduced stress and anxiety
Morning meditation is a powerful tool for stress reduction. By practicing meditation in the morning, you can lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone, in your body. This reduction in stress not only makes you feel more relaxed but also improves overall healthimproves overall health by lowering the risk of stress-related illnesses.
Improved emotional well-being
Meditation in the morning can enhance your emotional resilience and stability. It allows you to start the day with a sense of peace and calm, making you better equipped to handle any challenges that come your way. Regular practice can lead to long-term improvements in emotional health, including reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Better focus and concentration
Morning meditation primes your brain for a day of heightened focus and concentration. It trains your mind to stay present, which can improve productivity and efficiency in all areas of your life. This increased focus is especially beneficial in current times, with the information overload and distractions we are bombarded with every day.
Enhanced physical health
The benefits of morning meditation extend to your physical health as well. It can lower blood pressure, improve sleep quality, and boost the immune system. The deep breathing exercises often associated with meditation can also increase lung capacity and improve overall respiratory function.
The power of Transcendental Meditation
While there are many forms of meditation, the Transcendental Meditation (TM) technique stands out for its simplicity and effectiveness. The TM technique allows the mind and body to effortlessly settle into a state of restful alertness. Here are some specific benefits of practicing TM in the morning:Deep rest and relaxation
The TM technique provides a profound state of rest and relaxation, deeper than what is typically achieved through other forms of meditation. Practicing the TM technique in the morning helps release accumulated stress and tension from the body and mind, leading to a more relaxed and energized state throughout the day. The study below, published in the American Psychologist, found three physiological markers that show the rest achieved during TM practice is significantly deeper than simply resting with the eyes closed.¹[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][vc_column_text css=""]Deep rest and relaxation: the production of a unique state of deep rest
The TM technique provides a profound state of rest and relaxation, deeper than what is typically achieved through other forms of meditation. Practicing the TM technique in the morning helps release accumulated stress and tension from the body and mind, leading to a more relaxed and energized state throughout the day. The study, published in the American Psychologist, found three physiological markers that show the rest achieved during TM practice is significantly deeper than simply resting with the eyes closed.¹[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][vc_single_image image="598" img_size="full" css=""][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]Increased energy and vitality
Morning TM practice can markedly boost your energy levels. The deep rest experienced during TM allows your body to recharge more effectively, resulting in increased vitality and a sense of freshness that lasts throughout the day. This boost in energy can enhance your overall productivity and well-being.²Enhanced brain function
Research has shown that the TM technique can enhance brain function by increasing coherence in brain wave patterns. The brain connections displayed in this study below, published in Cognitive Processing, are highly correlated with improved cognitive function, including better memory, creativity, IQ, and problem-solving abilities.³ Practicing the TM technique in the morning can set the stage for optimal brain performance throughout the day, as a result of this increased coherence.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][vc_single_image image="739" img_size="full" css=""][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][vc_column_text css=""]Enhanced brain function
Research has shown that the TM technique can enhance brain function by increasing coherence in brain wave patterns. The brain connections displayed in this study below, published in Cognitive Processing, are highly correlated with improved cognitive function, including better memory, creativity, IQ, and problem-solving abilities.³ Practicing the TM technique in the morning can set the stage for optimal brain performance throughout the day, as a result of this increased coherence.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1778678981684{background-color: #F6EDE5 !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]"I feel as if my morning meditation brings more focus towards my day. I am able to grab my thoughts more clearly and have more energy"
D, August 2022,Trustpilot
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][vc_column_text css=""]Emotional balance and stability
The TM technique is particularly effective in promoting emotional balance and stability. By reducing stress and anxiety, TM helps to cultivate a more positive and stable emotional state. Morning practice ensures that you start your day with a calm and centered mind, better equipped to handle any emotional challenges. Furthermore, TM has been found to be significantly more effective than other meditation techniques for reducing trait anxiety, as in this meta-analysis published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology.⁴[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][vc_single_image image="812" img_size="full" css=""][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]Spiritual growth
For many practitioners, the TM technique offers a pathway to spiritual growth and self-discovery. The deep inner silence experienced during TM practice can lead to a greater sense of connection with oneself and the world. Practising TM in the morning can create a sense of purpose and alignment that guides your actions and interactions throughout the day.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][tm_text_image aside_image="1146" aside_url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1034236509?h=9ef39fba95&badge=0&autopause=0&player_id=0&app_id=58479" video_time="5 mins" text_background_image="29" select_alignment="text_left_image_right" select_minimum_height="mh-500" select_text_colour="text-dark" quote="Watch comedian Jerry Seinfeld, in partnership with the David Lynch Foundation. He recounts how incorporating TM practice into his morning routine changed things dramatically at the age of 60."]Jerry Seinfeld on morning meditation
[/tm_text_image][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1778678981684{background-color: #F6EDE5 !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]"I’ve been doing different types of meditation for over 20 years but nothing has been so simple, easy and effective as TM…I wake up very early and do my morning meditation which sets a positive mood for the start of my day.”
Chuck, May 2023,Trustpilot
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]Incorporating morning meditation into your daily routine can bring a multitude of benefits, from improved mental clarity and reduced stress to enhanced emotional well-being and physical health. The Transcendental Meditation technique, with its unique approach and profound effects, offers an especially powerful way to start your day on the right note. By dedicating a few minutes each morning to TM practice, you can unlock deeper levels of relaxation, energy, brain function, emotional balance, and spiritual growth. Embrace the power of morning meditation and Transcendental Meditation to transform your mornings – and your life.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1778679385811{background-image: url(http://tm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/tm-single-text-blue-yellow-lg.svg?id=333) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]Find a teacher
There are 50+ TM centres in Australia where you can connect with a local certified teacher and learn more about the TM technique.
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="40px"][vc_column_text css=""]By Carlos Cervantes, August 7 2024
References:
- Jevning R, Wilson AF, Davidson JM. Dillbeck MC, Orme-Johnson DW. Physiological differences between transcendental meditation and rest. American Psychologist, 1987 Sep 42(9):879-81
- Nader T, Carroll RJ, Travis FW, Bray JB, Gruener G, Rothenberg S, Brown DH, Brown CL. A larger lens: medical students benefit from consciousness-based self-care. In AK Maheshwari (ed), Consciousness-Based Leadership and Management, Volume 2, Chapter 2 (pp 13-46), 2023. Palgrave Studies in Workplace Spirituality and Fulfillment.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-05839-4_2
- Travis, F., Haaga, DAF, Hagelin, J et al (2010). A self-referential default brain state: Patterns of coherence, power, and eLORETA sources during eyes-closed rest and transcendental meditation practice. Cognitive Processing, 11(1), 21–30
- Eppley K, Abrams A, Shear J. Differential effects of relaxation techniques on trait anxiety: a meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Psychology 1989 45(6):957-974
Meditation for beginners
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="30px"][vc_column_text css="" el_class="mw-590 light"]Many people think that meditation is a difficult practice to master, involving hours and hours spent sitting perfectly still and clearing the mind of thoughts. Many have even said, “I can’t possibly meditate...”
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]Actually, meditation can be very easy, and doesn’t have to include concentration or “emptying” your mind. It can be a simple practice that anyone can enjoy and benefit from.
The American Psychological Association explains that stress and poor sleep are linked. People who sleep less report being more stressed, and in turn, those who are more stressed sleep less. The APA’s poll found that 63% of those who want more sleep frequently experience stress, compared with the 31% who say they get the sleep they need.¹
Meditation is for everyone
Meditation is not always an exclusive, difficult practice. While there are certain meditations that involve concentration and require a lot of effort, other meditation techniques are simple to learn and practice. Some types of meditation, including meditation that is good for beginners, are even enjoyable and pleasant to do.
The benefits of meditation can be experienced without having to change your lifestyle, diet, or other habits. While some forms of meditation are associated with religion, many more are entirely secular, with nothing to “believe” in at all, no philosophy. Meditation can be practiced no matter what you believe or what your preferences are in life.
Lastly, though the benefits of frequent meditation can accumulate over time, meditation beginners can also experience profound impacts right away.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1778678981684{background-color: #F6EDE5 !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]"It blows me away how easy it is. Though a beginner I feel I'm sleeping better and much calmer overall.
Garett, September 2022, Trustpilot
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]Benefits of meditation
These are just some of the benefits that regular meditation can bring to your life:- Decreased stress, anxiety and depression
- Increased mental clarity & creativity
- Better sleep
- Improved heart health
- Reduced cortisol levels
"Although a beginner, I'm finding daily benefits of stress relief, less & less anxiety, better sleep and more energy.
Donna, February 2021, Trustpilot
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="40px"][one_column_text]Picking the right meditation
When you are starting out with meditation, it’s important to pick the right technique. Make sure to:-
- Pick a technique that doesn’t require any effort or changes in lifestyle.
- Receive enough guidance from a specialised teacher to set your practice up properly from the start.
- Create enough time in your daily schedule to fit in meditation sessions.
- Build a good meditation routine from the beginning, as regular practice gives maximum results.
"Lessons were very informative, easy to understand and follow which was perfect for a beginner, like myself.”
WG, February 2023, Trustpilot
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]What is Transcendental Meditation
Transcendental Meditation is a simple, natural, and effortless meditation technique, which is practiced twice a day for 20 minutes while sitting comfortably with eyes closed. It does not involve concentration or control of the mind, or trying to clear the mind of thoughts. The TM technique allows your mind to naturally transcend, or easily settle inward, to quieter and quieter levels of thought, until you experience the most silent and peaceful level of your own awareness. When the mind settles down, the body also experiences deep rest.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1778679385811{background-image: url(http://tm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/tm-single-text-blue-yellow-lg.svg?id=333) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]Find a teacher
If you are looking for a meditation that is easy and enjoyable and offers far-reaching mental and physical benefits, the Transcendental Meditation technique is the perfect meditation for beginners to learn.
Connect with a local, certified TM teacher to learn more about the TM technique and its many other benefits.
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="40px"][vc_column_text css=""]By Julia Stibane-Hol, August 8 2024
References:
- The Harvard Gazette https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2018/04/harvard-researchers-study-how-mindfulness-may-change-the-brain-in-depressed-patients/(accessed 29 July 2024)
David Lynch and TM
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="30px"][vc_column_text css="" el_class="mw-590 light"]David Lynch (1946-2025) was a visionary artist. Best known as a director, his talents spanned film, television, music, painting, literature, and more. His films captivate the viewer in surreal, uncanny, intricate worlds.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]Both critically and commercially acclaimed, he has a cult following thanks to films including:- Eraserhead (1976)
- The Elephant Man (1980)
- Dune (1984)
- Blue Velvet (1986)
- Wild at Heart (1990)
- Mulholland Drive (2001)
David Lynch and Transcendental Meditation
Transcendental Meditation is an effortless technique, practiced for 20 minutes, twice a day. It is a silent technique practiced in a comfortable sitting position with the eyes closed. During the TM technique, the mind is able to access deeper levels of consciousness thanks to a mantra provided by a certified teacher during the TM course. TM allows the body and mind to process accumulated stress, resulting in sharper thinking, better sleep, and less anxiety, among many other benefits. David Lynch learned the TM technique in 1973, and has stated that he didn’t miss a single meditation session since learning. He gave credit to the TM technique for his creativity, energy, and happiness. In 1975, Lynch met Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of the TM movement. [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][tm_text_image aside_image="636" aside_url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1028392015?h=f4f4327836&badge=0&autopause=0&player_id=0&app_id=58479" video_time="4 mins" text_background_image="29" select_alignment="image_left_text_right" select_minimum_height="mh-400" select_text_colour="text-dark" quote="watch the video with healthcare workers from the Heal the Healers Now initiative, a program from the David Lynch Foundation."]Heal the healers now
[/tm_text_image][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1782497169110{background-color: #F6EDE5 !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]"Transcendental Meditation for me brings more and more happiness. And this happiness comes from within, but then, as a result of the inner happiness growing, the outside seems to be happier also."
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]David Lynch’s experiences with the TM technique were the inspiration for his book “Catching the Big Fish: Meditation, Consciousness, and Creativity.” In the book, Lynch explains his reluctance to meditate and how, in time, meditation has allowed him to “catch the big fish”, or access deeper creativity and more expanded states of consciousness.
Lynch witnessed first-hand the impact of the TM technique in schools, as children became less violent and stressed when practicing the technique. This prompted him to found the David Lynch Foundation (DLF) in 2005.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1782497169110{background-color: #F6EDE5 !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]"Meditation is a dive all the way within, beyond thought, to the source of thought and pure consciousness. It enlarges the container every time you transcend. When you come out, you come out refreshed, filled with energy and enthusiasm for life"
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]The David Lynch foundation
The mission of the David Lynch Foundation is “to prevent and eradicate the all-pervasive epidemic of trauma and toxic stress among at-risk populations through promoting widespread implementation of the evidence-based Transcendental Meditation (TM) program in order to improve their health, cognitive capabilities and performance in life.”
In 2009, the “Change Begins Within” benefit concert featuring Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Sheryl Crow, and others raised funds to help one million at-risk children learn the TM technique.
Some of their more recent initiatives include “Heal The Healers Now”, which was established during the Covid-19 pandemic to combat burnout and unprecedented stress among healthcare workers. In 2024, DLF launched Meditate America, a national campaign to bring the TM technique to everyone in the United States who wanted to learn. It raised money for at-risk individuals and frontline workers to learn the TM technique at no cost, and, alongside the national TM organization in the US, offered a 50% discount on the TM course to all. This was part of a wider initiative, championed by DLF, to get the TM technique covered by health insurance companies.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][tm_text_image aside_image="640" aside_url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1028392057?h=5321b9ac94&badge=0&autopause=0&player_id=0&app_id=58479" video_time="4 mins" text_background_image="29" select_alignment="image_left_text_right" select_minimum_height="mh-400" select_text_colour="text-dark" quote="watch the video with the New York City Fire Department, a program from the David Lynch Foundation."]TM for firefighters
[/tm_text_image][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1782497169110{background-color: #F6EDE5 !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]"Transcendental Meditation is an ancient mental technique that allows any human being to dive within, transcend and experience the source of everything. It’s such a blessing for the human being because that eternal field is a field of unbounded intelligence, creativity, happiness, love, energy and peace."
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]Honoring the memory of David Lynch
David Lynch inspired many people to learn the TM technique. Bob Roth, CEO of the David Lynch Foundation, said Lynch “was responsible for more people learning TM than any other figure since Maharishi … That’s his legacy. He wasn’t just an actor who put his name on something, some cause. He went everywhere, he traveled around the world, worked long hours and weeks and months. We would be nowhere without David Lynch and his energy and his focus and his conviction.”²
When the news of his death became public, there was an outpouring of love and support from around the world:
- “My heart is sad today but what an incredible legacy David Lynch left behind with the foundation… he has changed so many people’s lives, especially mine.” - Katy Perry
- “David Lynch showed up. His passing is a terrible loss but his legacy is the definition of selflessness. Loss always allows us, requires us, to remember. His example and gifts are easy to remember. I never met David but feel very close to him through my personal TM journey, encouraged by his foundation. What a good man. What a great visionary.” - General James “Spider” Marks (US Army, retired)
- “Deep condolences. So sorry to hear… David did so many great things for the world!” - Jerry Seinfeld
- "David Lynch was an inspiration to all of us who meditate with TM. His commitment to helping people whether Veterans, First Responders, Healthcare workers and so many more has been nothing short of amazing. He will be sorely missed." - Salvatore Cassano, Commissioner FDNY (Ret.), National Chairman TM for First Responders
- “I’m so sorry to hear of David’s passing.. His vision and dedication to heal people through TM .. has truly changed so many lives.” - Cameron Diaz
Transcending PTSD
[/tm_text_image][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1782498779974{background-color: #F6EDE5 !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]Want to learn more about TM?
If you are looking for a meditation that is easy and enjoyable and offers access to creativity, peace, and energy, the Transcendental Meditation technique is for you.
Connect with a local, certified TM teacher to learn more about the TM technique and its many other benefits. [/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][one_column_text]Written by Chloe Bonfield, January 24 2025
References:- Kermode, Mark (February 8, 2007). "David Lynch". The Guardian. Accessed January 24, 2025.
- Hoffmann, Claire (January 18, 2025). "I Argued With David Lynch About Meditation. He Was Right". Rolling Stone. Accessed January 24, 2025.
TM and Calm—what’s the difference?
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="30px"][vc_column_text css="" el_class="mw-590 light"]Discover how Transcendental Meditation (TM) and the Calm app can help you manage stress and improve your daily life. Which one aligns best with your needs? Find out below.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]Discover the Transcendental Meditation technique:
The Transcendental Meditation technique, introduced to the world by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in the 1950s, is a simple, effortless practice that is done for 20 minutes, twice a day.
TM offers:
- Personalised instruction: taught by certified teachers in over 100 countries
- Tailored approach: the course format is customized to each individual’s preferences
- Scientific validation: 600+ peer-reviewed, published studies, backed by over 50 years of research
- Proven benefits, including: TM reduces anxiety, improves heart health, lowers blood pressure
- A practice for everyone: anyone can do TM
What is the TM technique?
[/tm_text_image][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]What is calm?
The Calm app is an example of mindfulness practices. Calm offers guided meditations which help you stay present and aware of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment. Mindfulness is:- Rooted in tradition: originates in Buddhist practices
- Observational: encourages monitoring thoughts and feelings without trying to change them
- Flexible: can be practiced alone or with guidance, during various activities.
How TM differs from Calm
Transcendental Mediation is distinct from mindfulness apps like Calm:- Effortless: TM is done silently with eyes closed, and does not involve chanting, focus, intention, or contemplation
- Independence: once learned from a certified teacher, you can practice TM on your own, without use of an app
- More coherent brainwaves: TM induces alpha-one brainwaves linked to deep relaxation, which are measurably different to mindfulness
- Duration: TM is practiced for 20 minutes, twice a day, compared to Calm’s shorter sessions
- Personalised: the TM instruction is personalised for you, including a TM mantra (a beneficial sound without meaning)
- Transcendence: TM practice allows the mind to reach the source of thought, while mindfulness or guided meditations keep the mind on the surface level
How is TMdifferent?
[/tm_text_image][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="40px"][one_column_text]What are the benefits of Transcendental Meditation
More than 600 peer-reviewed, published research studies have documented the wide range of benefits resulting from TM practice, including:-
- Physical health: better sleep and reduced blood pressure
- Mental health: less anxiety and effective PTSD treatment
- Personal growth: enhanced creativity, productivity, and self-actualization
- Spiritual development: deep fulfilment.
What are the benefits of Calm
Practicing mindfulness with the Calm app can result in:-
- Increased attentiveness to surroundings
- Greater awareness of breathing, body, and thoughts
- Enhanced presence and self-awareness
How TM practice reduces anxiety
A Stanford University meta-analysis of 146 independent studies found that TM is significantly more effective at reducing anxiety compared to other meditation techniques [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width="1/2"][vc_single_image image="304" css=""][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]Which tool is right for you?
If you seek relief from poor sleep, anxiety, lack of focus, or personal relationship difficulties, Transcendental Meditation could be the answer. Many people enjoy the Calm app, but to truly jumpstart your tranquility, join the millions who practice TM. Everyone can benefit from TM, whether struggling or not, by diving within twice a day to experience inner calm, greater creativity, and self-actualization. If you’re new to meditation, Calm and other mindfulness apps offer an accessible starting point.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""] [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1778679385811{background-image: url(http://tm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/tm-single-text-blue-yellow-lg.svg?id=333) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]TM: the only effortless, personalised, and evidence-based meditation technique
The first step to learning TM is attending a free info session with a local TM teacher. These sessions are available in person and online every day across Australia Dive deeper into why TM is unique, how it works, and what makes it so effective.
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]Transcendental Meditation settles the mind and body creating a clearer, more settled state of mind.
Discover a clearer mindTranscendental Meditation reduces stress, creating a deeper, more compassionate connection to others.
Discover better relationshipsTM calms the mind and body, leading to deeper, more restorative sleep.
Discover better sleepRegular TM practice supports cardiovascular health by lowering stress.
Discover a healthy heartTM practice reduces cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, by 30%
Discover stress reliefMeditation and heart health
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="30px"][vc_column_text css="" el_class="mw-590 light"]As the leading cause of death in many countries around the world, heart disease is something we must all take measures to avoid. Healthy eating and exercising are well-known methods for reducing the risk of heart disease, but research has proven that TM practice is another valuable intervention.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]How does TM improve heart health ?
During the Transcendental Meditation technique, the mind effortlessly settles and achieves a state of deep rest. This in turn allows the body to relax and dissolve accumulated stress. Research shows that regular TM practice improves many symptoms associated with high risk of heart disease, including:- High stress levels
- Elevated body mass index (BMI)
- High blood pressure
- Increased left ventricular mass
- Angina
- High cholesterol
“The meditation is definitely helping definitely helping with my stress. My resting heart rate is normally 67-71. When I finished a recent session I checked, and my heart rate was 59! Haven’t missed a day yet.”
Michael, February 2023 Trustpilot
[/one_column_text][tm_text_image aside_image="878" aside_url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1034457407?h=aed285c2b4&badge=0&autopause=0&player_id=0&app_id=58479" text_background_image="333" select_alignment="text_left_image_right" select_minimum_height="mh-400" select_text_colour="text-dark" quote="Watch this video with Dr. Robert Schneider discussing the recent research trials, studying the link between the TM technique and improved heart health."]Lowering blood pressure and stress
[/tm_text_image][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1781692837294{background-color: #F9F7E9 !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]TM lowers blood pressure
There is a strong correlation between high blood pressure, or hypertension, and heart disease. High blood pressure damages arteries and puts additional strain on the heart. It’s of particular concern because the symptoms of high blood pressure often go unnoticed for years. That’s why it’s crucial to weave healthy, sustainable habits into your everyday life. These include eating unprocessed food, getting regular exercise, limiting tobacco and alcohol intake, and also daily meditation to relax the mind and body.[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1781626149674{background-color: #F6EDE5 !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]A study by the American Heart Association states that the Transcendental Meditation technique is the only meditation practice that has been proven to lower blood pressure.¹
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1781626141010{background-color: #F9F7E9 !important;}"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="40px"][tm_text_image aside_image="896" select_alignment="text_left_image_right" select_minimum_height="mh-740" select_text_colour="text-dark"]A 2007 meta-analysis of 107 studies showed that regular TM practice reduces blood pressure more effectively than bio-feedback, stress management, muscle relaxation, and combined treatment.[/tm_text_image][vc_empty_space height="40px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1778678981684{background-color: #F6EDE5 !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]“My anxiety and heart rate have gone down,my blood pressure is better. I’m sleeping more, a better quality and I haven’t slept well in years.”
Shannon, August 2023, Trustpilot
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1781626141010{background-color: #F9F7E9 !important;}"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="40px"][tm_text_image aside_image="893" select_alignment="text_left_image_right" select_minimum_height="mh-740" select_text_colour="text-dark"]TM reduces cardiovascular risk factors
Other studies have found that the TM technique mitigates a wide range of cardiovascular risk factors among adolescents and young adults at risk for hypertension.³ Cardiovascular risk factors are behaviors and symptoms that are commonly associated with heart disease. It is often seen that research participants are able to markedly reduce their use of standard medical treatments for hypertension and heart disease. This 2012 study shows a significant reduction of riskfor heart attacks, stroke, and death between a control group, and a group who are regularly practicing TM. [/tm_text_image][vc_empty_space height="40px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1781629296488{background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]TM decreases left ventricular mass
Health professionals often use an index known as “left ventricular mass” to understand someone’s risk for heart disease and the impact of their blood pressure measurements on the heart. A larger left ventricular mass is a warning sign for heart attacks, strokes, and death. Another research article demonstrated the numerous benefits of the TM technique for young people’s health.² There were measurable improvements to their:- Stress levels
- Blood pressure
- Vascular function
- Respiration rate
- Serum cholesterol levels
- Tobacco and alcohol use
“TM has been the only type of meditation that I can tell has a calming affect for me. I also have a monitor that tracks my heart rate and respiratory rate, both go down and seem to stay lower the days I meditate.”
MP, October 2021, Trustpilot
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1781629000677{background: #F6EDE5 url(https://tm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/tm-single-text-blue-yellow-lg.svg?id=333) !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]Find a teacher
The TM technique is great to have in your toolkit as one of several ways you can improve your heart health and lower your risk of heart disease.
Connect with a local, certified TM teacher to learn more about the TM technique and its many other benefits.
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="40px"][vc_column_text css=""] Scientifically reviewed by David Orme-Johnson, PhD Written by Chloe Bonfield, June 3 2024 References:- Beyond Medications and Diet: Alternative Approaches to Lowering Blood Pressure, Robert D. Brook, MD, et al, and on behalf of the American Heart Association Professional Education Committee and others, 22 Apr 2013, Hypertension. 2013;61:1360–1383.
- Barnes VA, Kapuku GK, Treiber FA. Impact of Transcendental Meditation on left ventricular mass in African American adolescents. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2012 923153. doi:10.1155/2012/923153.
- Barnes VA, Orme-Johnson DW. Prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease in adolescents and adults through the Transcendental Meditation Program: a research review update. Current Hypertension Reviews 2012 8(3):227-242.
Meditation for stress
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="30px"][vc_column_text css="" el_class="mw-590 light"]Stress is an experience of strain or tension. It is a psychological and physiological response to perceived threats or challenges. Regular meditation can help to dissolve stress and promote mental well-being.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]While short-term stress can be beneficial, motivating us to take action and improve performance, chronic stress can have severe negative effects on both our physical and mental health if not managed properly. There are various methods to manage stress, and research has shown that meditation for stress relief is an effective tool, both for reducing and managing stress, and for pre-emptively addressing the many physical and psychological symptoms caused by stress. It can help calm the mind, relax the body, and reduce the physiological responses to stress, such as elevated heart rate and blood pressure. By practising meditation regularly, we can cultivate a sense of inner peace and resilience that can help us cope better with the challenges and pressures of daily life.What is stress?
Stress is the body's natural response to challenges or demands, often arising when we perceive a situation as threatening or overwhelming. It can be caused by both positive and negative situations and can manifest in physical, emotional, and behavioural changes as the body attempts to adapt to these perceived challenges. It is characterised by the activation of the body's fight-or-flight response. Stress is a normal part of life and can sometimes be beneficial, helping us stay focused and alert. However, chronic stress can have negative effects on health, leading to issues such as anxiety, depression, and various physical ailments.What causes stress?
Stress can be caused by various factors, including:- Major life changes such as moving, divorce, or the death of a loved one
- Work or school pressures, including deadlines, exams, or job instability
- Financial problems, such as debt or job loss
- Relationship difficulties, including conflicts with partners, family, or friends
- Being too busy or having too many responsibilities
- Health concerns, either personal or for a loved one
- Emotional issues, such as depression, anxiety, anger, grief, guilt, or low self-esteem
- Traumatic events, such as natural disasters, accidents, or violence
- Uncertainty or unpredictability about the future
- Feeling out of control in life situations
- Daily hassles like traffic or deadlines
- Physical symptoms: headaches, muscle tension, chest pain, fatigue, insomnia, high blood pressure, feeling shaky, and frequent colds or infections
- Emotional symptoms: depression or sadness, anxiety, restlessness, lack of motivation, feeling overwhelmed, and a sense of isolation.
- Cognitive symptoms: racing thoughts, constant worrying, difficulty concentrating, and poor judgment.
- Behavioural symptoms: changes in appetite, loss of sexual desire, procrastination, nervous habits (e.g., nail biting), increased use of alcohol, drugs, or tobacco, social withdrawal, and neglecting responsibilities.
How does meditation reduce stress?
Various meditation techniques have been shown to offer physical, emotional, and mental health benefits. While the specific practices and approaches may differ, the underlying principles of mindfulness, relaxation, and focused awareness are common to many meditation traditions. There is plenty of evidence that proves that meditation for stress and anxiety works for many people. Scientific studies have shown that these practices can help improve mood, enhance focus, and promote overall health and well-being. Some of the reported benefits of meditation include:- Stress reduction
- Relaxation
- Emotional well-being
- Improved focus
- Mindfulness
- Enhanced self-awareness
- Better sleep
- Overall well-being
What is Transcendental Meditation?
TM is a simple technique, practiced twice a day for 20 minutes, with the eyes closed, sitting in any comfortable position. It is unique and different from other meditation techniques in that it does not require any effort, focus, or concentration. Anyone can practice the TM technique and enjoy its benefits. It can help as a stress relief meditation without any need for any specific belief or change in lifestyle. Since its introduction by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in the 1950s, the TM technique has gained popularity for its simplicity and effectiveness in promoting relaxation and overall well-being. The technique is taught by certified TM teachers, and its benefits have been experienced by millions of people from all walks of life. During Transcendental Meditation practice, the active mind settles down and experiences a unique state of restful alertness. This process allows the body to gain a state of deep rest, often deeper than that achieved during sleep, while the mind remains alert and awake. This state of restful alertness is characterised by a decrease in metabolic rate, reduced breath rate, and a calm yet alert mind.How does TM help with stress?
There have been more than 480 peer-reviewed, published studies conducted on the TM technique. These studies have investigated the technique’s effects on various aspects of health and well-being, including stress, anxiety, cardiovascular health, and cognitive function. The large body of research supporting TM's benefits makes it one of the most extensively practiced meditation techniques available.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1778678981684{background-color: #F6EDE5 !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]"For the first time in years, I’m beginning to sleep through the night. I feel more rested and have more energy while feeling much less stress and anxiety”
Lara, January 2024, Trustpilot
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="40px"][tm_text_image aside_image="304" select_alignment="text_left_image_right" select_minimum_height="mh-740" select_text_colour="text-dark"]A comprehensive analysis of all published randomized control trials on stress reduction among people with high blood pressure found that Transcendental Meditation was the only technique that significantly reduced blood pressure.
Here are some key findings on the effects of the TM technique as a meditation for stress relief:
- Relaxation response: TM practice elicits a relaxation response, which is the body's natural antidote to stress. This response includes decreased heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure, and promotes a state of calmness.¹
- Reduced cortisol levels: The TM technique has been shown to reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. Lower cortisol levels are associated with decreased stress.²
- Better sleep: TM has been found to improve sleep quality which is often disrupted by stress. Better sleep can improve overall well-being and resilience to stress.³
- Improved emotional well-being: TM has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders, which are often exacerbated by stress.⁴
- Enhanced resilience: The TM technique can help build resilience to stress over time. Regular practice may lead to a more balanced and adaptive response to stressful situations.⁵
- Improved relationships: By reducing stress and improving emotional well-being, TM may help improve relationships with others, as stress can often strain interpersonal interactions.⁶
- Improved brain function: Regular practice of TM has been linked to increased activity in the prefrontal cortex, a part of the brain associated with executive function and decision-making. This can help improve coping mechanisms and reduce the impact of stress.⁷
- Lowered blood pressure: TM has been associated with reduced blood pressure, which can be elevated by stress. This can reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems associated with chronic stress.⁸
"TM has brought me the most mental clarity I have ever had along with an amazing sense of peace and has essentially gotten rid of all my stress"
Tomas, July 2023, Trustpilot
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1778679385811{background-image: url(http://tm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/tm-single-text-blue-yellow-lg.svg?id=333) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]Take the first step
f you are experiencing stress and want to manage it effectively, consider practicing the Transcendental Meditation technique.
Backed by scientific research, the TM technique has been shown to be a powerful tool for reducing stress and improving overall well-being. By incorporating TM practice into your daily routine, you can experience the benefits of relaxation, increased mental clarity, and enhanced resilience to stress.
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="40px"][vc_column_text css=""]By Soha Abu Shakra, July 10 2024
References:
- Eppley K, Abrams A, Shear J. Differential effects of relaxation techniques on trait anxiety: a meta-analysis. Journal of Clinical Psychology 1989 45(6):957-974
- MacLean CR, Walton KG, Wenneberg SR et al. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 1997 May;22(4):277-95.
- Nader T, Carroll RJ, Travis FW, Bray JB, Gruener G, Rothenberg S, Brown DH, Brown CL. A larger lens: medical students benefit from consciousness-based self-care. In AK Maheshwari (ed), Consciousness-Based Leadership and Management, Volume 2, Chapter 2 (pp 13-46), 2023. Palgrave Studies in Workplace Spirituality and Fulfillment. doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-05839-4_2
- Ruini C, Vescovelli F, Facchini M, Maset R. Quiet Time: a school program based on meditation for promoting wellbeing in children: results from a controlled investigation. European Journal of Psychology and Educational Research 2023 6(1):1-9. doi.org/10.12973/ejper.6.1.1
- Valosek L, Wendt S, Link J, Abrams A, Hipps J, Grant J, Nidich R, Loiselle M, Nidich S. Meditation effective in reducing teacher burnout and improving resilience: a randomized controlled study. Frontiers in Education 2021. doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2021.627923
- Frew DR. Transcendental Meditation and productivity. Academy of Management Journal 1974 17:362-36
- Travis F. Innovation, creativity and brain integration. In MR Gurubatham, GA Williams (eds). Workplace Innovations: Advancing Innovation and Sustainable Outcomes in International Graduate Education (pp.160-176). Hershey, Pennsylvania: IGI Global, 2021. doi.10.4018/978-1-7998-5514-9.ch010
- Bai Z, Chang J, Chen C, Li P, Yang K, Chi I. Investigating the effect of transcendental meditation on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Human Hypertension 2015 29 :653 – 662. doi:10.1038/jhh.2015.6
Meditation for anxiety
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="30px"][vc_column_text css="" el_class="mw-590 light"]Anxiety is a natural human response to perceived threats or danger. However, when anxiety becomes chronic and overwhelming, it can significantly impact our daily lives.
Meditation for anxiety has emerged as a powerful and complementary approach that can help us find inner calm and manage anxiousness effectively.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]What is anxiety?
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition in the United States, affecting 19.1% of adults each year. It can manifest in various ways, including:- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): Persistent worry and excessive anxiety about everyday situations
- Social anxiety disorder: Intense fear of social situations and scrutiny from others
- Panic disorder: Sudden episodes of intense fear and physical symptoms like chest tightness, heart palpitations, and shortness of breath
- Phobias: Intense fear of specific objects or situations
What causes anxiety?
The exact cause of anxiety disorders isn't fully understood, but a combination of factors likely plays a role, including:- Genetics: A family history of anxiety disorders increases the risk.
- Brain chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine may play a role.
- Life events: Stressful life experiences, trauma, or chronic stress can trigger anxiety disorders.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions can contribute to anxiety symptoms.
Symptoms of anxiety
Anxiety can manifest physically, emotionally, and behaviorally. Some common symptoms include:- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- Increased heart rate and breathing
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Muscle tension
- Headaches
- Difficulty sleeping
- Irritability
- Avoidant behavior
The negative effects of anxiety on the body and daily life
Chronic anxiety can have a detrimental impact on our physical and mental well-being. It can:- Weaken the immune system making us more susceptible to illnesses
- Increase the risk of chronic health problems like heart disease and high blood pressure
- Lead to depression and other mental health issues
- Impair our ability to focus and perform daily tasks
- Damage relationships due to irritability and social withdrawal
"I am now much, much calmer and able to deal with stress and anxiety much better. I highly recommend this course and practice."
Virginia, November 2022,Trustpilot
[/one_column_text][tm_text_image aside_image="494" aside_url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1026058980?h=611732fbf9" text_background_image="333" select_alignment="text_left_image_right" select_minimum_height="mh-400" select_text_colour="text-dark"]"I found the thing that I was looking for"
_Hear from Sherri, a project manager, on how Transcendental Meditation has made a difference to her anxiety in daily life
[/tm_text_image][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="40px"][tm_text_image aside_image="304" select_alignment="text_left_image_right" select_minimum_height="mh-740" select_text_colour="text-dark"]How Transcendental Meditation helps with anxiety
Research suggests that TM is a helpful anxiety disorder meditation due to several mechanisms:- Reduced stress hormones: TM practice has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that can worsen anxiety symptoms.¹
- Improved brain function: Studies indicate that TM practice can lead to increased functional connectivity in brain regions associated with relaxation and emotional regulation.²
- Enhanced focus and self-awareness: TM cultivates present-moment awareness and reduces the tendency to ruminate on anxious thoughts.³
- Enhanced resilience: The TM technique can help build resilience to stress over time. Regular practice may lead to a more balanced and adaptive response to stressful situations.⁵
- Improved relationships: By reducing stress and improving emotional well-being, TM may help improve relationships with others, as stress can often strain interpersonal interactions.⁶
- Improved brain function: Regular practice of TM has been linked to increased activity in the prefrontal cortex, a part of the brain associated with executive function and decision-making. This can help improve coping mechanisms and reduce the impact of stress.⁷
- Lowered blood pressure: TM has been associated with reduced blood pressure, which can be elevated by stress. This can reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems associated with chronic stress.⁸
"TM has changed my life. I had a severe anxiety disorder, and I had tried everything, meds, therapy, even ketamine to try to get some relief. TM was the first, and only, thing that brought me peace."
Chelsea, May 2023,Trustpilot
[/one_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1778679385811{background-image: url(http://tm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/tm-single-text-blue-yellow-lg.svg?id=333) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]Does meditation help with anxiety?
Several studies have specifically investigated the effectiveness of TM for anxiety:
- A pilot study by Azizoddin et al. (2021) found that TM significantly reduced anxiety symptoms in emergency room clinicians during the COVID-19 pandemic.⁴
- Bleasdale et al. (2020) observed a decrease in anxiety in high school students who practiced TM.⁵
- Leach et al. (2023) reported that TM was more effective than group support in reducing anxiety among women who experienced domestic violence.⁶
These findings suggest that the TM technique is a valuable meditation for anxiety, alongside traditional treatment approaches.
While medication and therapy are considered first-line treatments for anxiety disorders, meditation can be a powerful complementary approach to achieve lasting relief and promote inner peace.
[/one_column_text][one_column_text]Take the first step
Connect with a local, certified TM teacher to learn more about the TM course, and the many other benefits of TM practice. [/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="40px"][vc_column_text css=""]By Ruzanna Najaryan, July 5 2024
References:
- Schmitz RE, Kinahan PE, Harrison RL, Lewellen TK. Simulations of the Effect of Collimation on Count Rates of an LSO PET System. IEEE Nucl Sci Symp Conf Rec (1997). 2006;5:3049-3052. doi: 10.1109/NSSMIC.2006.356517. PMID: 22072861; PMCID: PMC3210022.
- Zhang W, Du J, Yu K, Wang T, Yong X, Yu XF. Association of potent human antiviral cytidine deaminases with 7SL RNA and viral RNP in HIV-1 virions. J Virol. 2010 Dec;84(24):12903-13. doi: 10.1128/JVI.01632-10. Epub 2010 Oct 6. PMID: 20926562; PMCID: PMC3004302.
- Arenander A, Travis FT. Brain patterns of Self-awareness. In B Beitman, J Nair (eds), Self-Awareness Deficits. New York: WW Norton, 2004
- Azizoddin, D. M., Boddy, C., Bhati, M., & Condon, B. G. (2021). The impact of Transcendental Meditation on anxiety and well-being in emergency medicine clinicians during the COVID-19 pandemic: A pilot study. Cureus, 13(11), e18538.
- Bleasdale, F., Turner, J. A., Bystrisky, A., & Kuyken, W. (2020). Reduced anxiety in high school students practicing Transcendental Meditation: A pilot study. Journal of Child and Adolescent Trauma, 13(4), 577-584.https://www.jpedhc.org/article/S0891-5245%2811%2900055-1/pdf
- Leach MJ, Lorenzon H. Transcendental Meditation for women affected by domestic violence: a pilot randomised, controlled trial. Journal of Family Violence 2023. doi.org/10.1007/s10896-023-00561-3
Meditation for sleep
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="30px"][vc_column_text css="" el_class="mw-590 light"]Sleep meditation can help you get to sleep faster, enjoy better rest, and reduce the stress that makes a good night’s sleep difficult. Developing the ability to sleep better through meditation can significantly improve your overall well-being.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]If you’re hoping for a way to get a better night’s sleep, you’re not alone. The most recent Gallup poll on sleep found that 57% of U.S. adults don’t receive the sleep they need and would feel better if they did.
The American Psychological Association explains that stress and poor sleep are linked. People who sleep less report being more stressed, and in turn, those who are more stressed sleep less. The APA’s poll found that 63% of those who want more sleep frequently experience stress, compared with the 31% who say they get the sleep they need.¹
The daily stress of life makes it difficult to turn off the hyperactivity of the brain when it’s time for sleep. And insufficient sleep means the body and mind can’t rejuvenate. With less sleep, we become less resilient, more irritable, and less clear-thinking. This results in even more stress.
Meditation can break the cycle of stress and poor sleep without drugs, by either reducing or even blocking stress, which is crucial for those having trouble falling asleep. Let’s take a look at two prominent forms of sleep meditation: mindfulness and the Transcendental Meditation technique.
Mindfulness sleep meditation
Some forms of mindfulness and guided meditation can be beneficial for achieving a quiet and restful mind.
Mindfulness sleep meditation involves techniques like progressive relaxation and deep breathing to help you relax and drift off. These practices can block the pattern of stress-related mental activity that frequently appears when one lays down to sleep.
By allowing the mind and body to relax in this way, mindfulness sleep meditation can result in falling asleep faster and then enjoying a good night’s rest.
These guided meditations for sleep often take the form of recorded tracks that lead a meditator through the steps of the meditation.
A speaker, in a slow and steady voice, may guide the practitioner through progressive relaxation, which gently directs the attention of the mind from one part of the body to the next to notice any sensation or tension.
After the body has become more relaxed in this way, the speaker may lead the practitioner in a breathing exercise that further relaxes the body and calms the mind. Many of these recordings include additional visualizations and music.
These guided meditations typically have a duration of ten to twenty minutes. Some continue longer with calming music after the speaker has completed the script.
Incorporating mindfulness with progressive relaxation and deep breathing techniques into your bedtime routine can help relax the body and mind and allow sleep to come more easily.
Transcendental Meditation for better sleep
Both ease of falling asleep and quality of sleep are improved by practicing the Transcendental Meditation technique.
The Transcendental Meditation (TM) technique differs from other forms of sleep meditation; it is not practiced before sleep or as a direct means of falling asleep. Instead, the TM technique is practiced twice daily for 15-20 minutes, typically before breakfast and dinner.
Transcendental Meditation does not involve the intentional guiding or directing of your mind.
Rather, it is a technique that unleashes the natural tendency of the mind to move within to a state of deep calm and inner peace. The automatic outcome of regular practice of TM enriches life broadly through the reduction of stress and the unfoldment of one’s consciousness.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1778678981684{background-color: #F6EDE5 !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]"TM has decluttered my nervous system so that any negative feeling isbehind me, instead of leading me, and on the surface. I am falling asleep quicker and having more restful moments of deep sleep
Patty, March 2023,
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]How does Transcendental Meditation result in better sleep?
During the past 54 years, over 480 peer-reviewed scientific studies have been conducted on practitioners of the Transcendental Meditation technique. The first studies showed that TM practice produces a state of rest, or a reduction of metabolic activity, even deeper than the deepest part of sleep.² Yet, the mind remains alert. This state of “restful alertness” allows the body to naturally eliminate both deeply-rooted stress and the superficial stress of daily life.³ More recent studies have found that practicing the TM technique results in the increase of serotonin, the neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood and sleep-wake cycles. Healthy levels of serotonin promote restful sleep.⁴,/p> Research also shows that TM practice reduces the level of stress-related hormones including cortisol, which affects a large number of areas in life, particularly our quality of sleep.⁵ [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="40px"][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][vc_column_text css=""]Reduction of insomnia
A study on the mental health and well-being of healthcare providers using the Transcendental Meditation technique during the COVID-19 pandemic found a reduction of insomnia symptoms by 44%.⁶ Similar improvement in sleep quality and reduced insomnia has been reported among practitioners of Transcendental Meditation in a growing number of peer-reviewed studies of diverse populations, including veterans struggling with PTSD , psychiatric patients, workers in the automotive industry,⁷ medical students, college students, high school students, and prison inmates.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/2"][vc_single_image image="1037" img_size="" css=""][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_empty_space height="40px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="100px"][vc_column_text css=""]Which is the best sleep meditation for you?
No one can answer that question for you. Both forms of meditation have been found to be effective for millions of people around the world. Let’s explore the differences. For many people, especially those just starting out with mindfulness meditation for sleep, the practice will involve listening to a recorded guided script. If that works for you, then you may enjoy a good night’s rest. Some will develop the ability to self-guide themselves, while others will continue to enjoy the process of letting go with the help of a guide. The results of mindfulness may block the effects of stress so that you can relax and fall asleep. The Transcendental Meditation technique, once it is learned from a certified teacher, is a do-it-yourself method. No tapes, tracks, recordings, or video guides are involved in TM practice; you just need a place to sit and then you close your eyes. Improved sleep is just one of many proven benefits that automatically emerge from regular practice, without directing or desiring any particular outcome. Research indicates that the Transcendental Meditation technique results in the long-term elimination of stress that can be transformative to one’s life. The benefits of Transcendental Meditation go well beyond better sleep, providing comprehensive improvement in many health conditions, clarity of mind, and general well-being.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height="100px"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1778678981684{background-color: #F6EDE5 !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]"Since the first session, I have experienced clarity of mind throughout the day and a complete sleep each night. I wake up refreshed!"
Susan, April 2023, Trustpilot
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=".vc_custom_1778679385811{background-image: url(http://tm.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/tm-single-text-blue-yellow-lg.svg?id=333) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}"][vc_column][one_column_text]Find a teacher
Connect with a certified TM teacher near you to learn more about the many benefits that come from learning TM.
There are 50+ TM Centres in Australia. where you can learn to meditate, and realise your full potential.
[/one_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_class="mw-590"][vc_column][vc_empty_space height="40px"][vc_column_text css=""]By Michael Skoletsky, July 5 2024
References:
- American Psychology Association, American Psychological Association Stress in America survey, 2013 (Accessed July 5 2024).
- Wallace RK. Physiological effects of Transcendental Meditation. Science 1970 167:1751-1754 https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.167.3926.1751 text
- R. Jevning, R.K. Wallace, M. Beidebach, The physiology of meditation: A review. A wakeful hypometabolic integrated response, Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, Volume 16, Issue 3, 1992, Pages 415-424 https://doi.org/10.1016/S0149-7634(05)80210-6
- Bujatti M, Riederer P. Serotonin, noradrenaline, dopamine metabolites in Transcendental Meditation. Journal of Neural Transmission 1976 39(3):257-267 https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF01256514
- Jevning R, Wilson AF, Davidson JM. Adrenocortical activity during meditation. Hormones and Behavior 1978 10(1):54-60 https://doi.org/10.1016/0018-506X(78)90024-7
- Nestor MS, Lawson A, Fischer D. Improving the mental health and well-being of healthcare providers using the transcendental meditation technique during the COVID-19 pandemic: a parallel population study. PLoS ONE 2023 18(3):e0265046 http://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0265046
- Alexander CN, Swanson GC, et.al Effects of the transcendental meditation program on stress reduction, health, and employee development: A prospective study in two occupational settings,., Anxiety, Stress, and Coping, An International Journal, Volume 6, 1993 - Issue 3: 245-262https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/ 10.1080/10615809308248383
Reduced stress & anxiety
Better sleep & health
Better sleep & health
The origin of the TM technique
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, whose life’s work was to revive and demystify the timeless knowledge of meditation, and verify its effectiveness through the lens of modern science, began teaching Transcendental Meditation in the 1950s.
After refining and systematising the teaching of TM, Maharishi began a movement to make the technique available worldwide. He oversaw the training of thousands of teachers and established a non-profit foundation to preserve the authenticity of the TM technique for generations to come.
Attend a free
info session
Attend a group info session (in person or online) to learn more about TM from a certified TM teacher, including why it’s unique, how it works, and what makes it so effective. Duration: up to 1 hour
Personalised one-to-one instruction
Personally connect with a certified TM teacher and receive expert support during your whole journey.
Practise with no effort
Everyone can do the TM technique, even if you “can’t meditate.” There is no concentrating, no control of the mind, and no trying to “empty the mind”.
TM works for everyone
Join millions of people from all walks of life who have experienced the scientifically verified benefits of TM in their own lives.
The TM follow-up program
Personal TM "check-ins"
TM check-ins are 1-on-1 sessions with a TM teacher that verify the correctness of your TM practice. Schedule a check-in every few months, or whenever you need it.TM refresher courses
TM refresher courses provide a thorough review of what you learned during your TM course. You can benefit from a questions and answer session and a group TM check-in.On-going events & learning opportunities
You will be invited to regular events (in-person and online) including advanced talks with videos and discussions, group meditations, seasonal celebrations, guest speakers, and more.Book a free info session
Find your local TM Centre to learn more about the TM course.
Free info sessions are regularly taking place in person and online.
The TM technique reduces symptoms of PTSD and depression by 20.5%
Several scientific studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the TM technique for treating patients with PTSD.
One study showed that the Transcendental Meditation technique decreased the need for psychotropic medications required for anxiety and PTSD management and increased psychological well-being. There was a 20.5% difference between the TM practice and control groups in severity of psychological symptoms after six months.


The TM technique reduces symptoms of PTSD and depression by 20.5%
Several scientific studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the TM technique for treating patients with PTSD.
One study showed that the Transcendental Meditation technique decreased the need for psychotropic medications required for anxiety and PTSD management and increased psychological well-being. There was a 20.5% difference between the TM practice and control groups in severity of psychological symptoms after six months.

The TM technique reduces symptoms of PTSD and depression by 20.5%
Several scientific studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the TM technique for treating patients with PTSD.
One study showed that the Transcendental Meditation technique decreased the need for psychotropic medications required for anxiety and PTSD management and increased psychological well-being. There was a 20.5% difference between the TM practice and control groups in severity of psychological symptoms after six months.
