About Maharishi Mahesh Yogi
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, a prominent spiritual leader and advocate of Transcendental Meditation, made significant contributions to the field of yoga and meditation. His teachings and techniques have touched the lives of millions around the world, offering practical methods for attaining inner peace and personal transformation.
His teachings attracted celebrities, including The Beatles, who famously travelled to India to learn from him. The Beatles’ association with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi played a significant role in popularizing Transcendental Meditation and brought it to the attention of a global audience. Maharishi’s efforts to promote peace and harmony through Transcendental Meditation (TM) led to the establishment of educational institutions, such as Maharishi International University, dedicated to integrating spiritual values with academic learning.
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi is widely known for his development and promotion of Transcendental Meditation (TM). His technique of TM gained global recognition for its simplicity, accessibility and effectiveness in achieving deep relaxation, reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being. Maharishi’s teachings also focused on creating harmony and peace on a global scale, earning him a reputation as a visionary leader and advocate for world peace.
Mahesh Yogi:
Born on January 12, 1918, in Jabalpur, India, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, originally named Mahesh Prasad Varma, studied physics at Allahabad University before embarking on a spiritual quest. He became a disciple of Swami Brahmananda Saraswati, the Shankaracharya (spiritual leader) of Jyotirmath in the Himalayas. After the passing of his guru, Maharishi dedicated his life to spreading the knowledge and practice of Transcendental Meditation worldwide.
Mahesh Yogi:
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi authored several books to elucidate the principles and benefits of Transcendental Meditation and its applications in various aspects of life. His notable works include “The Science of Being and Art of Living,” which explores the philosophical aspects of TM and its practical applications for personal growth, and “Transcendental Meditation: The Essential Teachings of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi,” a comprehensive guide to understanding and practicing TM. Other influential books by Maharishi include “Love and God,” “The Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation and Commentary,” and “Maharishi Mahesh Yogi on the Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation and Commentary.”
Transcendental Meditation (TM):
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi introduced Transcendental Meditation (TM) as a simple, natural technique for attaining a state of deep restful awareness. TM involves the use of a silently repeated mantra to facilitate relaxation and the experience of transcending thought, leading to a state of inner stillness and expanded consciousness. TM is practiced for 15-20 minutes, twice a day, allowing the mind to settle into a state of deep rest and rejuvenation.
TM does not incorporate the use of props or specific pranayama techniques. It is a technique focused on mental repetition of a mantra and accessing the transcendent state beyond thought. Maharishi emphasized the simplicity and effortlessness of TM, requiring no concentration or control of the mind.
Fascinating Facts about Maharishi Mahesh Yogi:
- Maharishi Mahesh Yogi established the Spiritual Regeneration Movement Foundation (SRM) to disseminate the knowledge and practice of Transcendental Meditation worldwide.
- He founded the Maharishi International University in Fairfield, Iowa, as a center for education and research in consciousness-based approaches to learning.
- Maharishi Mahesh Yogi initiated large-scale meditation events, known as World Peace Assemblies, to promote global harmony and reduce collective stress.
- He developed advanced techniques derived from Transcendental Meditation, including the TM-Sidhi program, which includes the practice of Yogic Flying.
- Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s teachings and initiatives continue to be propagated by organizations such as the Global Country of World Peace, which he founded to support peace, education, and health programs worldwide.
Conclusion:
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s profound influence on the world of yoga and meditation cannot be overstated. Through his introduction of Transcendental Meditation, he provided a practical and accessible technique for personal growth and self-discovery. His teachings continue to inspire individuals to seek inner peace, reduce stress, and cultivate global harmony. Maharishi’s vision and efforts to promote peace and well-being have left an enduring impact on the world, creating a legacy that resonates with millions of practitioners and advocates of Transcendental Meditation.