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Transcendental Meditation

Michael S. Nystul

The Corsini Encyclopedia of Psychology January 22, 2010 DOI: 10.1002/9780470479216.corpsy1005 (opens in new tab)

Study at a glance

AI-extracted from the abstract
Characteristics Review Peer reviewed
Intervention Transcendental Meditation
Topics Meditation
Keywords Transcendental meditation Transcendental number Consciousness Perception Wakefulness Psychoanalysis Psychotherapist Epistemology Theology Electroencephalography
Citations 32
Key findings Transcendental Meditation results in Transcendental Consciousness, a unique state of pure wakefulness and deep physiological rest.

Abstract

Abstract Various types of meditation have been practiced for over 2,500 years. Many Eastern cultures have included forms of meditation as an important part of their religious and spiritual enrichment (e.g., Zen Yoga). More recently, the West has taken an interest in the practice of Transcendental Meditation (TM) as taught by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. According to Chandler, Alexander, and Heaton (2005), TM results in a unique state of consciousness referred to as Transcendental Consciousness (consciousness not associated with thoughts or perceptions; a state of wakefulness; pure consciousness; aware of its unbounded potential). During meditation, the mind transcends the subtlest thoughts resulting in deep physiological rest.

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