Why transcendental meditation is a potent stress reducer
Stress is a common problem that affects almost everyone at some point in their lives. It can be caused by various things such as work, personal relationships, finances, and health issues among others. The good news is that there are several methods you can use to manage stress and one of them is through transcendental meditation. In this article, we will look at what transcendental meditation is and why it is a potent stress reducer.
What is Transcendental Meditation?
Transcendental Meditation is a technique of meditation introduced by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in 1955. It involves sitting with your eyes closed and silently repeating a mantra or sound. The mantra is a word or sound that has no meaning and is chosen for its positive qualities. The process is simple and effortless, and you do not need to have any prior experience to do it.
How does Transcendental Meditation work?
Transcendental Meditation works by settling the mind, allowing it to rest deeply and transcend to a state of pure consciousness. When you practice this technique, you experience a state of relaxation that is deeper than sleep. This state of restfulness has been found to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and promote general well-being.
During Transcendental Meditation, the body experiences a unique state of rest, which results in several physiological changes such as reduced heart rate and blood pressure, stabilizing brain waves, and increased oxygen consumption. These changes result in a harmonious functioning of the body and mind, which can improve your physical and mental health.
Why is Transcendental Meditation a Potent Stress Reducer?
Transcendental Meditation is a potent stress reducer because it leads to deep relaxation by calming the mind. When you practice this form of meditation, the cortisol levels decrease, which is a hormone associated with stress. A study conducted by the American Psychological Association found that practicing Transcendental Meditation twice daily for eight weeks significantly reduced stress levels in participants.
Moreover, Transcendental Meditation has been found to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. A meta-analysis of 16 studies found that this practice significantly reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression in participants. These findings imply that Transcendental Meditation is a powerful tool for managing stress and improving mental health.
Benefits of Transcendental Meditation
Transcendental Meditation has numerous benefits, including:
- Reduced stress levels.
- Improved mental clarity and concentration.
- Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Improved cardiovascular health.
- Improved quality of sleep.
- Increased happiness and well-being.
How to Practice Transcendental Meditation
Practicing Transcendental Meditation is simple and can be done by following these steps:
- Sit in a comfortable position with your eyes closed.
- Repeat the mantra or sound silently to yourself.
- Do this for 15 to 20 minutes twice daily, either in the morning or evening.
- After you are done with the meditation, take a few deep breaths, gently open your eyes, and sit for a few more minutes before standing up.
You can practice Transcendental Meditation on your own or learn from a qualified teacher.
Conclusion
Transcendental Meditation is a powerful tool for managing stress and improving mental and physical health. Its simplicity and effectiveness have led to it being adopted by people from all walks of life, including celebrities and business executives. By practicing Transcendental Meditation, you can reduce stress levels, improve mental clarity, and experience a state of deep relaxation that can improve your overall well-being.