Here at Oahu Spine & Rehab we use many alternative medicine techniques in order to provide our patients with the most effective pain release possible. We offer our patients chiropractic care, acupuncture and massage therapy which are all aspects of eastern medicine. Another widely used form of eastern medicine is transcendental meditation (TM).
Here is an overview on transcendental meditation as told by Bob Roth:
If you’re interested and watching the entire video, visit here!
The key features of TM:
-TM is a very simple technique.
-TM is natural, there is no manipulation, no suggestion, TM is very simple to learn, enjoyable to practice.
-Effortless, there are no elaborate directions and instructions for TM.
-TM is ideally practiced 20 minutes twice a day, sitting comfortably, eyes closed
-It’s not a philosophy, it’s not a religion, and it’s not a diet or change in lifestyle. There is nothing you have to believe in.
There is a level of the mind that is already calm, most people have just lost access to it. TM allows your mind to settle down and find unified consciousness.
How do we know that TM helps?
Science has proven that mind and body are interconnected, as one. If your mind is effortlessly calming down, it will show up in the body. This can happens in terms of focus, stress relief, anxiety relief and a more positive outlook. During TM your body reaches the deepest kind of rest and relaxation, even deeper than sleep which allows the body to repair. Cortisol, is a chemical that is secreted in your body when you are feeling stressed or anxious. Research shows that TM causes cortisol levels to drop 30%.
TM’s effect on the brain
During TM the connections between the left and right hemispheres are strengthened. It will cause you to think more clearly and increase your focus. TM uses alpha brainwaves which are known as a state of restful alertness.
Unknowingly, your attention is drawn to what it finds the most interesting. What satisfies your mind the most will be the source of your attention. Natural tendency of the human mind to be drawn to the most satisfaction. Instead of listening outward, TM teaches you how to focus your attention on the deeper parts of your mind and listen inward.
Releases stress, resolves stress, rejuvenates the body.
Mantra
The point of a mantra is for the attention of the mind to settle down. A mantra is a word or a sound that is used meaninglessly and silently during TM in order to focus on the innermost parts of the mind. The mantra is simply a positive sound or word in order to get the mind to settle down. In order to practice TM you must be taught by a certified TM instructor. The process takes about four consecutive days with about 1-2 hours each day. It is crucial that on your first day you are one-to-one with a teacher in order for them to give you a mantra that is best for you and learn how to use it.
If you are interested in knowing more about transcendental meditation, visit the TM website here!
Resources: