I learned this about TM:
The Transcendental Meditation technique is an effortless technique for automatic self-transcending. It allows your mind to settle inward beyond thought to experience the source of thought — pure awareness. This is the most silent and peaceful level of consciousness — your innermost Self.
Research on transcendingThe first studies on the TM technique were conducted at UCLA and Harvard Medical School in the early ‘70s, and were published in Science, American Journal of Physiology, and Scientific American. These landmark studies found that the TM technique produces a unique state of “restful alertness” in the mind and body. No other form of meditation has been found to produce this state.
Since then, many published studies have documented a wide range of physiological indicators of the state of restful alertness. Even though the body is in a state of deep rest, the mind is alert rather than asleep, as indicated by the marked increase in alpha waves during TM practice.
Immediate and long-term benefits
Automatic self-transcending is the key to the TM technique’s effectiveness, and does not occur in meditations involving concentration or mindfulness. Over 350 published, peer-reviewed studies have collectively found that the TM technique produces immediate and long-term wellness benefits for mind and body.
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi on Effortless Transcending (2:00)
How is Transcendental
Meditation different?
The TM® technique differs from other techniques
in three important ways:
1. Effortless transcending
Unlike other techniques, the TM technique involves no concentration, contemplation or control of your mind. It is effortless and enjoyable, and can be practiced sitting comfortably in a chair.
The TM technique allows your mind to effortlessly transcend to settle inward to the source of thought — a natural state of pure awareness and restful alertness. This automatic self-transcending is a unique feature of the TM technique.
2. Evidence-based
Over 350 published research studies on the TM technique have documented a wide range of benefits, including reduced stress and anxiety, improved health and brain function, and increased self-actualization. Other forms of meditation may produce effects in specific areas, but only TM has been found in hundreds of studies to produce immediate and long-term wellness benefits for mind and body.
3. Standardized for effectiveness
Every certified TM teacher ensures consistent effectiveness in your results by providing standardized instruction in TM. In most other meditations, the nature and quality of instruction can vary widely from teacher to teacher.