TM - Transcendental Meditation - Your experience with it and can it be learned without the expense?

[masmdu]

It seems that a lot of folks find value in TM and it is supposed to be a simple thing to learn. But the cost to learn it is way to high ($1500-2500).

I'd like to hear others experiences with TM and if there is a free/cheap way to learn it.

[masmdu]

1. kick

[Archae]

2. It's a scam.

I can teach myself how to meditate without paying $1500 to some guru.

I remember when the TM people were claiming those who paid up in full, (Naturally,) and did what the gurus said, they could float around the room and pass through walls.

They even had PHOTOS of the "flyers!"

(Bad pictures of people in the "lotus" position bouncing on a mat.)

BTW, that "lotus" position? It hurts!

[handmade34]

3. don't pay

TM takes personal discipline and you can do it without the expense

[NSRUSA]

4. Spam deleted by Warren DeMontague (MIR Team)

[NSRUSA]

5. Spam deleted by Warren DeMontague (MIR Team)

[masmdu]

6. Thank you for the info and link.

[BrendaBrick]

12. Beg to differ...

"...Transcending is an effortless mental technique in which we make use of the mind's spontaneous ability to think thoughts to think a special thought called a mantra."

Has nothing at all to do with *thinking*, IMO.

Nope. Requires a major shift in consciousness as far as I can see it. *Thinking* is an after-thought. A by-product.

Let's back it up a bit. Consider flipping/challenging this basic premise: I think, therefore I am.

Nope.

I am. Therefore I think.

Yup.

Let's not ever confuse the map with the actual territory....get it?

[Maltam]

7. Spam deleted by Warren DeMontague (MIR Team)

[elleng]

10. Thanks, Maltam.

I tried it years ago, but clearly don't have the necessary discipline. My brother's been practising and teaching it for many years; same with his wife. Their children also practice it.

[Taverner]

8. Meditation can be learned by yourself, for free

There is no reason to shell out a dime to learn the craft of meditation.

Google some sites, and you'll learn all you need.

TM is a scam that makes claims of levitation, that group meditation can alter the physical world and many other unprovable claims.

Meditation, however, is a time honored practice that has roots in almost every human culture, and can give you control over your own mind and body. Not in a woo woo way, but a practical, testable way.

Reduction of anger, pain management, improved focus and reducing stress are all things that can be accomplished with meditation.

[Stuart G]

13. Yes, absolutely free...go to the library, and take out a book called, "The Relaxation Response"

It is a form of deep breathing.. ...and Taverner is correct TM is a scam also Taverner is correct with his third sentence which I will quote directly,

" Meditation, however, is a time honored practice that has roots in almost every human culture, and can give you control over your own mind and body. Not in a woo woo way, but a practical, testable way." \

This goes back hundreds of years, maybe more.... very peaceful ..quiet...

[Taverner]

14. Yep. Your conscious mind needs a break just like your subconscious one.

[bikebloke]

9. Looked into long ago.

Realized it was a scam. You can learn it for free from the library (pre-Internet days). Now you can learn it with a few clicks.

[GreatCaesarsGhost]

11. Naps are good.

And cheap.

[GoneOffShore]

15. Here's a mantra - all for free

Om mani padme hum

structure it as you wish. Om on the inhale. Mani padme hum on the exhale. Or the entire thing on the inhale and then again on the exhale.

Concentrate on the breath but if your thoughts stray from the breath accept that and then bring them back.

Or just go and watch the clouds.

Anyone asking you to pay to learn to breathe is picking your pocket.

[TerryA76]

16. Spam deleted by Warren DeMontague (MIR Team)

[Ann-ji]

17. I love it

My regular TM practice has been very helpful to me and in all areas of my life. I manage my stress better, have more energy, more creativity, better health and more intimate relationships...it's a good thing for me. It does cost money and you want to learn from a qualified teacher and in my experience it is worth it. I'm not rich or even close...I haven't earned more than 25K in a year in my life. I saved up, made it happen...and I'm grateful every day! Good luck in your path.

[pokerfan]

18. no need to pay a dime

http://lifehacker.com/5591576/a-guide-to-meditation-for-the-rest-of-us

http://zenhabits.net/meditate