Question
David,
When I took TM in 1973 there was secrecy, even some fear, around the subject of the mantra. I enquired about how many there were, what the effects of using different ones were etc. but got nowhere. Is NSR different? Is this subject now put on an open, scientific basis? Will benefits of mantra meditation happen even regardless of the specific sound used? Thanks.
PS - love the idea of a mantra meditation technique that is scientifically based, inexpensive and not involved in worship of a higher authority.
Answer
Usuff, Thank you for your question and your interest in NSR Meditation.
The unnecessary secrecy and mysticism associated with TM are just one reason we offer NSR Meditation as an alternative and effective practice. Another, and bigger reason are the high course fees charged for TM instruction. People frequently tell us that they have heard about TM, are interested in learning it, but simply cannot afford it.
While it is true that NSR is a learn-it-yourself program rather than a program that offers personal instruction, our published research shows that it is equally effective at the reduction of anxiety without the unnecessary elitism and secrecy that mark TM. And the NSR learning materials cost only about 1/30 the price of the TM Program. Anyone can afford NSR.
Mantras are traditional sounds used to facilitate "diving within", the process of effective meditation called transcending. Unfortunately, there does not yet exist a scientific understanding of exactly how mantras work and a scientifically-based methodology for choosing an appropriate sound for each individual. However, it turns out that choosing a mantra is far less important than the procedure used for thinking it. NSR Meditation uses a single, traditional mantra for everyone rather than selecting a customized sound. Even though we differ from TM in the use of mantras, feedback from our clients indicates the same range of benefits as are experienced by TM practitioners. These benefits are based on the elimination of stress, not on secrecy or mysticism.
I hope this general answer has helped.
