What is the TM technique?

The Transcendental Meditation (TM) technique is the most well-known of the Maharishi Technologies of Consciousness, revived by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi* from ancient Vedic wisdom.

Practiced for 20 minutes twice a day while sitting comfortably with eyes closed, the TM technique helps the mind to settle inward, allowing access to a deep source of creativity and inner calm. It can be easily integrated into a busy lifestyle to enhance mental and physical health, support overall well-being, and unlock your full potential.

“If you ask me why I meditate, it’s because of the personal bliss, the sense of peace, calm, and clarity that it gives me.”

— Dr. Tony Nader

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What will you experience during the TM technique?

Over 55 years of research confirm that the Transcendental Meditation technique creates a unique physiological state in which the body experiences:

  • Decreased respiratory rate and deep muscle relaxation
  • Lower cortisol levels, reduced arterial blood lactate, and decreased galvanic skin response

At the same time, the mind remains alert and experiences:

  • Increased frontal blood flow to the brain
  • Greater brain coherence on electroencephalogram (EEG)

Scientists recognize this state of restful alertness associated with TM practice as a fourth state of consciousness—Transcendental Consciousness—distinct from waking, sleeping, and dreaming.1

The proven benefits of the Transcendental Meditation technique

Over 420 original peer-reviewed published studies show that the TM technique provides important benefits for mental and physical health, and improves productivity, academic performance, resilience and mental well-being. Examples include:

  • 30% decrease in stress-related blood cortisol2
  • Improved brain function: Increased brain integration on EEG3
  • Reduced mood disturbance: anger, depression, fatigue, confusion3
  • 56% decrease in hospitalizations4
  • Reduced anxiety symptoms, sleep problems, and burnout5
  • 48% decreased risk of heart attack, stroke, or death in heart patients6
  • High blood pressure: The official American Heart Association 2025 blood pressure management guideline now includes the TM technique among evidence-based lifestyle approaches for prevention and treatment of elevated blood pressure and hypertension—the only meditation program to be so included7

How is the TM technique different from other forms of meditation?8

There are three categories of meditation:

  • Focused attention, including Vipassana and Qigong:
    concentrating on a certain object or a particular thought.
  • Open monitoring, including Mindfulness, Calm, other apps:
    directs the attention to the breath, sensations, thoughts, or the environment.
  • Automatic self-transcending, or the Transcendental Meditation Technique:
    where the mind effortlessly settles inward to experience a unique state of restful alertness and deep calm.

“TM is not a philosophy that you have to believe in. It’s not a way of life that you have to adopt. It is a fundamental necessity to experience fulfilment in life, irrespective of one’s belief system, political affiliation, or social role.”

— Dr. Tony Nader

Learn more about the
Transcendental Meditation technique and find a TM course near you

Are you already practicing the Transcendental Meditation technique? Contact your local TM Center to learn more about the Transcendental Meditation Advanced techniques, including the TM-Sidhi program.

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Consciousness Advisor program

The Maharishi Technologies of Consciousness programs have been used for thousands of years. While the TM technique is the most well-known, Maharishi also revived or developed other Vedic approaches—including Ayurvedic herbs, massage, sound, and light therapies—that support personal growth and well-being.

The Consciousness Advisor program, created by Dr. Nader, helps bring these tools to life. Trained professionals will recommend the right approaches for you, helping you explore new possibilities for growth—from SuperHabits* for diet, exercise, and better relationships, to Ayurvedic herbs and treatments.

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What is the origin of
the TM technique?

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi spent 13 years studying with his teacher, a revered guardian of the thousands-year-old tradition of Vedic wisdom. Maharishi revived, systematized, and demystified the teaching of the Transcendental Meditation technique. Beginning in 1958, he shared the TM technique with people throughout the world, oversaw the training of thousands of certified TM teachers, and established a non-profit organization to preserve the authenticity of the TM technique for generations to come.

Maharishi chose Dr. Tony Nader as his successor to lead the Transcendental Meditation organizations, their programs, and teachers worldwide. Dr. Nader is furthering Maharishi’s legacy by bringing the science of Consciousness to new audiences and expanding our understanding and experience of the furthest reaches of human potential.

Scientific research references

Dr Tony Nader
Dr Tony Nader