There are many misconceptions about how to practice the Transcendental Meditation technique. Some people think it involves concentration or contemplation, while others think it is something that can be learned from a book, or that any self-chosen mantra will do. In fact, it is none of these things. But it is a simple, natural technique that anyone of any background, age or gender can practice – there are now more than 6 million people worldwide who have learned.

Transcendental Meditation practice does not involve any concentration or control of the mind.

Concentration practices keep the mind engaged in some way, by, for example, focusing on an object like a candle or on something like your breath. Other meditation practices keep us aware of thoughts or images. These practices keep the mind active in some way on the surface thinking level of the mind.

The TM technique is practiced 20 minutes twice each day while sitting comfortably with the eyes closed.

The TM technique allows the mind to transcend thinking, automatically and without effort, and to experience a deep state of restfully alert consciousness and inner silence. The holistic benefits that have been found to result from daily TM practice are the automatic result of this unique experience.

Images from The TM Book by Denise Denniston.