what is tm meditation

Transcendental Meditation (TM) is a form of silent mantra meditation developed by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. It is a simple, natural, effortless technique practiced 20 minutes twice each day while sitting comfortably with the eyes closed. The TM technique involves the use of a silently-used sound called mantra, which allows the active mind to easily settle. Unlike other forms of meditation, TM practice involves no concentration, no control of the mind, no trying to clear the mind of thoughts, and no mental monitoring. The TM technique is taught by certified TM teachers in a course carefully personalized for each individual. The TM technique has been found to have many health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and reducing stress. Research on TM began in the 1970s, and a 2012 meta-analysis on the psychological impact of meditation found that Transcendental Meditation had a comparable overall effectiveness to other meditation techniques in improving general wellbeing, but distinctive effects on specific psychological variables. A 2017 overview of systematic reviews and meta-analyses indicates TM practice may lower blood pressure, an effect comparable with other health interventions. The TM technique has been described as both religious and non-religious, as an aspect of a new religious movement, as rooted in Hinduism, and as a non-religious practice for self-development. The TM technique is unique, and other meditations often claim to be the same or similar to the TM technique, but there is no evidence they provide the same benefits.