Unlike other techniques, the TM technique involves no concentration, contemplation or control of your mind. It is effortless and enjoyable and can be practised sitting comfortably in a chair with the eyes closed.
TM is unique in that it produces unique brain wave activity during the practice of the technique. Researchers have determined that different meditation techniques affect brain functioning in different ways. They also identified three categories of meditation each with its brain patterns in meditation and activity, as measured by EEG.
TM develops global alpha coherence, a pattern associated with increased alertness.
No other form of meditation has such a body of evidence supporting the benefits that come from practising TM. More than 250 independent institutions in 33 countries have produced more than 400 peer-reviewed studies. These have extensively documented that TM provides a wide range of unique benefits including significant reductions in stress and anxiety, and improved heart health and cognitive function.
The Transcendental Meditation technique is the only meditation technique that has been endorsed, and recommended, by both Australia’s CSIRO and the American Heart Association to lower blood pressure.
Globally, the TM technique is only taught through a standardised course. And the TM technique is only taught by Certified Teachers. This ensures correct instruction and maximum benefits.
Some organisations and individuals offer techniques for transcending or purporting to be from the Vedic tradition. These are usually personality-based derivatives of Transcendental Meditation, and the results of their interpretations of teaching the technique are unknown.
Transcendental Meditation differs again from other techniques through the positive influence it brings to the community. This positive contribution is brought by two very different approaches.
Part of all TM course fees helps people who are “in need” globally and from at-risk communities, learn the TM technique. More than 1 million sponsorships have enabled at-risk children, veterans, domestic violence victims, refugees, homeless people, and others in need have been able to learn Transcendental Meditation. More information on these programs can be found at davidlynchfoundation.org.au or davidlynchfoundation.org or www.maharishi.fund.
The practice of TM creates coherent brain functioning, giving greater clarity of mind. In town and city populations where a sufficient number of people practise TM, this effect of coherence spreads throughout society, bringing benefits to the whole community. This phenomenon has been widely researched and published and is known as the “Maharishi Effect”.