How is it different?

Comparing Meditation Techniques

Many meditation techniques are available today. Contrary to common belief there are distinct differences between techniques, such as the effort involved, their impact on the brain, and whether or not they result in verifiable benefits.

A study published in the journal Consciousness and Cognition identified the following three meditation categories, based on measured brain wave differences:

  • Concentration or focus : Zen, Vipassana, etc.
  • Open monitoring : Mindfulness, Kriya Yoga, etc.
  • Self-transcending : Transcendental Meditation

Meditation techniques and their impact on the brain

Form of meditation Transcendental Meditation Mindfulness
(monitoring of thoughts)
Concentration or Focus
Brain wave activity Alpha Theta Beta
Brain wave description “Relaxed, happy, focused”
— Mayo Clinic
“Dream-like”
— Mayo Clinic
“Logical-thinking,
problem-solving”
— Mayo Clinic
EEG image alpha brain waves theta brain waves beta brain waves
Mental effort Effortless Moderate effort Strong effort

Why do people who have tried other techniques find TM to be completely different?

Absolutely effortless

  • No concentrating
  • No control of the mind
  • No mindfulness (monitoring of thoughts)
  • No trying to “empty the mind”

Proven effective

TM has been proven effective for stress and anxiety, clarity of mind, and more.

“Life finds its purpose and fulfilment in the expansion of happiness”

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi
Founder of Transcendental Meditation

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