Stress is believed to be the major factor in the occurrence of psychosomatic illness. As the system accumulates stress, it functions less and less efficiently, and resistance to disease diminishes. This process appears to be reversed by the regular practice of the Transcendental Meditation technique.

The TM technique is taught in a very systematic way by highly qualified teachers. It is easy to learn and easy to practice. It does not require any change in lifestyle. One simply sits comfortably, closes the eyes and follows the instructions he has received from his teacher.

During the practice of the TM technique, the mind systematically experiences more refined or subtler mental activity, and because mental activity and physiological activity are inseparable, the body naturally settles down as the mind enjoys this quieter activity. There is no effort to relax. Relaxation occurs spontaneously. As the mind and body experience this unique state of rest, the body follows its natural tendency to heal itself, and eliminates accumulated stress in an easy and natural way.

The TM technique is not a form of hypnosis, and when a person practices the TM technique, he does not go into a trance or any kind of unnatural state. What a person does experience during the practice of the TM technique has been described by researchers as "restful alertness". This style of functioning is characterized by extremely deep metabolic rest coupled with an unprecedented orderliness of brain functioning - orderliness which is not found in sleep or other forms of relaxation. This indicates that the kind of rest gained during the practice of the TM technique is unique.

There have been over 600 independent research studies done on the TM technique. Research indicates that regular practice of the TM tecnhique results in the following:

Normalization of high blood pressure
Decreased plasma cortisol (high levels of cortisol are associated with increased anxiety)
Increased cardiovascular and respiratory efficiency
Faster reaction time
Increased perceptual ability (measured by improvement in auditory discrimination)
Increased tolerance for physical activity in heart patients (angina pectoris)
Improved running speed in athletes
Beneficial effects on bronchial asthma
Normalization of weight
Relief from insomnia
Reduced use of alcohol and cigarettes
Reduced drug abuse.

In Indianapolis there are free introductory lectures on the Transcendental Meditation program every Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. For more information call Maharishi Vedic University in Indianapolis (317) 923-2873.

In the Muncie, Indiana, area
Email or
Call (765) 286-5087.

In other states call toll free 1-888-LEARN-TM