QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION

Why practise Transcendental Meditation?

Transcendental Meditation is practised because it offers very practical benefits. It dissolves fatigue and stress and gives energy and clarity of mind. It is a simple way to re-charge our batteries every day. Over time it allows our natural creativity and intelligence to blossom.

What happens during Transcendental Meditation

One simply experiences the mind becoming more calm and quiet, and the body becoming more and more deeply relaxed. Transcendental Meditation is easy and enjoyable.

Do you have to be relaxed to practise Transcendental Meditation?

No. It is possible to practise Transcendental Meditation even if we start in a very agitated state. Transcendental Meditation works regardless of how we feel. It doesn't depend on our moods or feelings.

Do I have to give up anything or change my diet?

No. There is absolutely no need to change your diet or way of life. We just practise Transcendental Meditation twice a day and get on with living.

I live in a very noisy environment. Will that prevent me from practising Transcendental Meditation?

Noise is not a barrier to practising Transcendental Meditation. All you need is somewhere to sit down and close your eyes. Transcendental Meditation works automatically, regardless of our environment, and we can do it almost anywhere - on a train, a plane a bus, or even a bench in the park.

Is Transcendental Meditation a religion?

No. It is purely a practical technique. If you have a religion, Transcendental Meditation will help you to appreciate it more. Transcendental Meditation does not depend on any kind of faith or belief.

Is Transcendental Meditation like self-hypnosis?

Self-hypnosis always involves some kind of control. However in Transcendental Meditation the mind experiences its most calm and restful state in an innocent and natural manner.
Scientific research carried out world-wide shows that the physiological changes during Transcendental Meditation, and the wide range of benefits that they produce, are unique and completely distinguish Transcendental Meditation from self-hypnosis.

How does Transcendental Meditation compare with other types of meditation

Other types of meditation involve some controlling of the mind, either through concentration or contemplation. Transcendental Meditation is easy to learn, effortless to practice, and involves no concentration or contemplation. Extensive research, comparing Transcendental Meditation with other techniques of meditation and relaxation, shows that the benefits gained through Transcendental Meditation are more wide-reaching and profound.

Is exercise or sport just as good as Transcendental Meditation?

No. Although sports and exercise can be enjoyable and produce some obvious benefits, they differ from Transcendental Meditation in that they are unable to get rid of really deep-rooted stresses. For this, very deep rest is necessary. This is where Transcendental Meditation is unique. Research has shown that it allows the mind and body to experience the deepest level of rest possible.

Will practising Transcendental Meditation make me so relaxed that it will reduce my drive and motivation?

Definitely not. In fact quite the opposite will happen. By getting rid of stress and increasing energy and clarity of mind, we become more dynamic and successful in our daily activity.

Is it necessary to believe in Transcendental Meditation for it to work?

Transcendental Meditation is a technique that works regardless of whether we believe in it or not. It is rather like eating a meal - we don't have to believe in vitamins, protein and minerals in the food for it to do us good, we just have to eat it. To enjoy the benefits of Transcendental Meditation we just have to practice it twice a day.

How important is regular practise?

The benefits of Transcendental Meditation are cumulative. To ensure good progress it is necessary to practise regularly, twice a day, for 15-20 minutes.

Can Transcendental Meditation be learned from a book or listening to a tape?

Although Transcendental Meditation is universal and can be practised by anyone, we need to be taught the technique individually. This is because everyone is unique and needs to learn Transcendental Meditation at their own pace, and have their individual experiences verified be a trained teacher. This would not be possible using a tape or a book.

Is Transcendental Meditation worth it?

Transcendental Meditation is a technique with a proven scientific record. It can reduce stress, improve health, give greater energy and creativity, and help anyone accomplish what they want in life. For just 15-20 minutes twice a day, the benefits are invaluable. The most common remark from people who have just learned Transcendental Meditation is that they wish they had taken it up years earlier.

How soon can I experience results from Transcendental Meditation?

Most people notice benefits within a few days of learning. These vary from person to person, but research has shown that benefits are cumulative over time as more and more stress is released and our natural abilities unfold.

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