Transcendental Meditation

Transcendental Meditation (TM), created by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, is a very simple but effective technique to achieve complete mental and physical relaxation. It basically involves mental repetition of a 'mantra' for about 15-20 minutes daily. With this, the mind 'transcends' any kind of mental activity to attain a state of complete relaxation and awareness.

The best part about TM is that it does not require any special effort. Anyone can practice it. The full course has many stages. Although I've not gone through an actual full course, I've been exposed to the elements of this system, and found it really relaxing and invigorating.

You can try this out whenever you feel stressed or when you have the spare time. Adopt a comfortable position, close your eyes and chant the 'mantra.' This could be anything, any phrase, not necessarily religious. It could be 'om', 'ing' 'inga', just about anything. When any stray thoughts come into your mind, don't try to resist the thought. Just let it come and go, but keep your mind focussed on the particular word. Do this for 15-20 mins, and then open your eyes. You will really feel relaxed and fresh. You can extend the session to even 30 mins or more. There! really simple isn't it?

Is it really effective?

Well, I've tried it and it works for me! Actually, I did some research in Pubmed and other journals, and many randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and other studies indicate that TM is effective and can "even slow or reverse the progression of pathophysiological changes underlying cardiovascular disease" (Walton et al.,2002.)

The skeptics

Of course, there are skeptics about the effectiveness and there are accusations about TM being a 'cult phenomenon.'

My take on this
TM is simple, safe, and well, at least 'relaxing' enough for me. Try it out!