HOW TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION IS DIFFERENT
The fundamental distinction between the Transcendental Meditation method and other types of meditation is practioners transcend – that is transcend the boundary of thought and experience a state of complete stillness and calm of mind and body – this is achieved during a session by silently repeating and effortlessly experiencing a soothing sound called a mantra. The mantra is a tool for calming the mind and directing oneself into a very peaceful condition. Compared to other forms of meditation, the TM technique asks the brain to exert the least amount of effort by effortlessly experiencing this mantra.
Transcendental Meditation cannot be learned on one’s own since it involves specific interaction with a teacher. TM teachers must complete a lengthy training programme before they can teach the method to students.
WORKINGS OF TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION
Initially, the main focus of TM is stress release. The practitioner begins the meditation practice by sitting comfortably in a quiet place with their eyes closed. While sitting in absolute silence, one will silently experience a mantra. The mantra is a calming sound with no intellectual meaning for the student; it is a tool for calming the mind. The qualified TM teacher privately assigns their mantra or sound to each pupil on an individual basis. If done correctly, pure consciousness will flood the body and one will enter a state of spacious silence. When doing TM, one should only need to naturally breathe and experience their mantra.
TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION TRAINING
Transcendental Meditation is taught in a seven-step course by a licenced TM instructor, which is distinct from other meditation practices. The first session is an hour-long introduction to the TM technique.
Following the introduction, there is personal instruction in the technique followed by 3 further classes giving further information and supporting students to get the most out of their meditation practice. Further support is provided on an on-going basis. Trained TM teachers will go over the practice in great detail, offer constructive criticism, and discuss the advantages of consistent TM practice throughout these sessions.
Over the coming months, the practitioners will continue to meet with the certified teacher to work on their technique. Ideal TM practice continues to be twice daily for 15 to 20 minutes, in the morning and in the afternoon.
