Are There Any Transcendental Meditation Dangers?

Radhika Dadhich

Transcendental Meditation might have some risks and negative symptoms. But, such cases are rare, and mostly, TM has benefits that are corroborated by medical studies. 

Transcendental Meditation began as a part of the Transcendental Meditation movement founded by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in the 1950s. Maharishi Mahesh began publicly teaching a traditional meditation technique in 1955. He learned the meditation method from his master - Brahmananda Saraswati.

Simply put, Transcendental Meditation (TM) is a meditation technique to avoid distracting thoughts and utilize mantras or chants as a way to reach a state of ‘relaxed awareness.’ The method became incredibly popular worldwide because of its association with the Beatles and continues to be practiced and studied to date. 

However, many people often worry about the potential Transcendental Meditation dangers. Well, are there any such looming risks? Read ahead to know more!

 

The Truth About Transcendental Meditation Dangers

Meditation, especially Transcendental Meditation, has no known health risks. As long as you are not meditating on inappropriate citations, such as driving, you are good to go!

 

However, for some individuals, meditation may aggravate pre-existing mental health issues. A 2017 study of 342 people who mediate reveals that 25.4 percent of the participants had experienced at least one unwanted effect, such as -

  • Symptoms of anxiety
  • Physical pain
  • Dizziness
  • Depersonalization - a situation when you feel disconnected from yourself, and views yourself from outside your body
  • Derealization - it is a situation when an individual feels disconnected from their surroundings

 

But, it is essential to note that most of these unwarranted effects were temporary and such situations of experiencing Transcendental Meditation dangers are incredibly rare and an exception. If you experience any negative symptoms after meditating, try taking a break from it for a few days or indulge in a different meditation technique. 

But, as of now, the larger scientific opinion and hearsay suggests that Transcendental Meditation has multiple benefits. What are they? Let us find out! 

Transcendental Meditation: The Research-based Benefits

Several studies have been done that prove the positive impact of TM. For instance,  a 2014 study suggests that Transcendental Meditation reduces stress and anxiety, enhances brain function and bolsters cardiovascular health.

 

Likewise, regular meditation techniques, including TM can help improve your sleep, enhance pain management, improve self-esteem, bolster concentration and even decrease menopausal symptoms. 

So, there we have it, a summary of the Transcendental Meditation dangers. Try switching your techniques if you experience negative symptoms after meditation. Otherwise, seeking help from a mental health professional is also a good idea!

Some people experience negative symptoms after Transcendental Meditation. But, such cases are a rarity. 

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