Ommm…

August 7, 2019July 30, 2019
by admin

To anyone that will listen, I have championed the practice of meditating daily after discovering for myself how healing and peaceful it can be. Mindfulness meditation, the type of meditation I had stumbled on, leads to living a more mindful life, experiencing the present moment for what it is thus leading to less anxiety and more understanding. However, the question came up recently from one of my friends and a recent convert to meditation, what is transcendental meditation? I knew there were different forms and while familiar with Yoga and Tai Chi (both moving forms of meditation) as well as the type of practice I so enjoyed, I wasn’t sure how to answer. So in true Robin fashion I told her would find out.

Simply, Transcendental Meditation is a meditation meant to ‘transcend’ thought. Founded over 50 years ago by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi it is a discipline based on not ‘emptying the mind’ or mindfulness but rather on focusing on a mantra, a single sound or word, for 15-20 minutes twice a day while seated in a comfortable position. The teaching around this technique is very structured and at the end of the course the student is often given a personal mantra they are to keep secret.

There have been many studies regarding the health benefits of both Transcendental Meditation and Mindfulness based meditation and the research bears out both methods show effectiveness with decreased stress, lower cortisol levels, positive psychological outcomes like self-acceptance and less anxiety, as well as increased gray matter. Just a few minutes a day can be transforming if practiced on a regular basis. I would encourage you to explore all types of meditation and practice the method that suits your lifestyle and provides you the most benefit because showing your mind some love is a wonderful experience!

Do you have a preferred type of meditation practice or time of day that you find works best for you? Drop me an email to aheartfeltjrny@gmail.com or post in the comments what you enjoy or if you have any questions. Wishing you more love and peace on your heartfelt journey! ~♥~