20 Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Aphorisms on Transcendental Meditation and Consciousness

Key Takeaways

• Transcendental Meditation (TM) is a simple, natural technique for diving deep into the stillness of the mind.
• Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of TM, provided many aphorisms that encapsulate the essence of this practice and its benefits.
• TM is known for reducing stress and promoting inner peace, which can lead to improved overall well-being.
• Understanding and reflecting on these aphorisms can deepen your meditation practice and consciousness.
• Anyone can practice TM and potentially experience its transformative effects on the mind and body.

Who is Maharishi Mahesh Yogi

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, a spiritual figure, introduced Transcendental Meditation to the modern world, making it accessible to everyone regardless of age, culture, or background. His teachings have inspired millions to adopt deep inner silence and sparked a global conversation on the power of consciousness and its impact on personal and collective well-being. Maharishi’s journey began under the guidance of Guru Dev, who emphasized the purity of the TM technique. His enlightened guidance helped Maharishi understand the value of simplicity in meditation and its power to transform lives.

In the mid-1950s, Maharishi introduced the TM technique to the world, envisioning a society free of stress and strife, where every individual could experience inner peace. The TM movement quickly spread across the globe, touching people from all walks of life. Maharishi’s legacy is a tapestry of countless individuals who found solace and strength in TM, fostering a culture of peace and mindfulness that transcends borders and generations.

20 Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Aphorisms on Transcendental Meditation and Consciousness

Let’s dive into some of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s most profound aphorisms on Transcendental Meditation and consciousness. These timeless words encapsulate the transformative power of TM and offer guidance for those seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and the universe.

1. “Being happy is of the utmost importance. Success in anything is through happiness.”

• Recognize that happiness is not a fleeting emotion, but a state of being that can be cultivated through regular TM practice.
• Understand that success in life flows more effortlessly when you are centered and content within yourself.
• Use TM to tap into an inner reservoir of joy, which can be the foundation for all endeavors in life.

When you sit to meditate, gently remind yourself of this truth. Let it guide you to a place of contentment from which all positive action can arise.

Meditation isn’t just about finding a moment of peace in a chaotic world — it’s about establishing a lasting state of happiness that permeates all aspects of your life.

2. “Happiness radiates like the fragrance from a flower and draws all good things towards you.”

Just as a flower does not strive to spread its fragrance, true happiness naturally extends its influence outward. When you meditate, you cultivate an inner happiness that, like a flower’s scent, cannot be contained. It touches everyone around you, attracting positivity and creating an environment where good things can flourish.

Consider this as you meditate: the peace and happiness you nurture within have the power to transform not only your life but also the lives of those you encounter.

3. “Individual potential of life is cosmic potential. Individual is divine deep inside. Transcendental experience awakens that divinity in man. And when you kill a man you deprive him of that birthright of it.”

The idea that each of us carries a spark of the divine is central to Maharishi’s teachings. Through TM, we awaken that inner divinity, realizing our connection to the cosmos and the vast potential that lies within. This realization fosters a profound respect for life in all its forms.

As you meditate, let this concept of universal potential inspire you to reach for greater heights in your personal growth and understanding.

4. “Problems will disappear as darkness disappears with the onset of light.”

Challenges in life can often seem insurmountable, but Maharishi’s words remind us that with the light of awareness, solutions emerge. Transcendental Meditation brings the light of consciousness to the forefront, dissolving problems as naturally as sunlight scatters the night.

In your meditation practice, envision each problem melting away as you immerse yourself in the warm glow of pure awareness.

5. “The highest state is laughter.”

There’s a profound truth in the simplicity of laughter. It is an expression of joy that transcends language and culture. Maharishi saw laughter as a natural outcome of a life lived in fullness and a mind steeped in bliss.

As you meditate, allow the joy within to bubble up and spill over in laughter. It is a sign that you are touching the essence of life itself.

6. “I am upset and completely disappointed in the government, the millionaires and billionaires in the U.S. See what’s happening to the country? Look at all the health problems, the economy, the recession and crime.”

Maharishi did not shy away from addressing societal issues. He believed that the solutions to many of the world’s problems could be found by turning inward and cultivating a state of collective consciousness through TM.

Reflect on how your meditation practice can contribute to a greater sense of responsibility and positive change in the world around you.

7. “Modern psychology has pointed to the need of educating people to use a much larger portion of the mind. Transcendental meditation fulfills this need. And it can be taught very easily.”

TM offers a way to tap into the untapped potential of the mind, expanding our cognitive capabilities and enriching our experience of life. Maharishi’s assertion that this technique is easy to learn is a call to action for all who seek greater self-mastery and mental expansion.

Remember, the journey to unlocking the full potential of your mind begins with the simple step of learning and practicing TM.

8. “Stress is the reason for crime and all other kinds of frustration. To relieve it will eliminate everything else.”

Stress is a pervasive issue in modern society, often leading to negative consequences. Maharishi understood that by alleviating stress through TM, we can address the root cause of many societal ills.

As you meditate, focus on releasing the tensions that bind you, creating a ripple effect that promotes harmony both within and in the world at large.

9. “In the process of evolution, the body lasts for some time and then will take another body and another body until the final redemption from diversity is transcended.”

Maharishi’s view on evolution and rebirth is a profound reminder of the cyclical nature of life. Through the practice of Transcendental Meditation, we begin to understand the transient nature of our physical existence and the eternal continuity of our consciousness. This perspective can bring a sense of peace, as we recognize that our essence is not confined to the limits of the physical body.

Embrace this wisdom in your meditation practice. Let it guide you to a deeper acceptance of life’s cycles and the journey of your own consciousness.

10. “What we have done, the result of that comes to us whenever it comes, either today, tomorrow, hundred years later, hundred lives later, whatever, whatever. And so, it’s our own karma. That is why that philosophy in every religion: Killing is sin. Killing is sin in every religion.”

The concept of karma is central to Maharishi’s teachings. He emphasized that every action has a consequence, which can manifest at any point in time. This understanding fosters a sense of personal responsibility and ethical behavior. Transcendental Meditation helps us to align with the natural law of karma, promoting actions that are in harmony with our highest self and the well-being of others.

As you meditate, consider the ripple effects of your actions. Strive to act with kindness and compassion, knowing that these qualities will return to you in kind.

11. “It’s as if we live in a house which has a vast treasury in one of its rooms. Only we’ve forgotten about it. So, instead of living a life of royalty, we go about in poverty.”

This aphorism illustrates the untapped potential within each of us. Maharishi likens our inner consciousness to a treasure room that we’ve forgotten. Transcendental Meditation is the key to unlocking this room, allowing us to access the abundance of energy, creativity, and intelligence that lies within.

Remember this analogy as you sit to meditate. You’re not just stilling the mind; you’re opening the door to a treasury of boundless potential.

12. “Whatever we put our attention on will grow stronger in our life.”

Where we focus our attention, our energy flows. Maharishi’s words remind us of the power of intention. Through Transcendental Meditation, we learn to direct our attention in ways that cultivate positivity and growth.

Use this principle in your practice to strengthen the qualities you wish to develop. Focus on peace, joy, or love, and watch as these elements become more pronounced in your life.

13. “Problems or successes, they all are the results of our own actions. Karma. The philosophy of action is that no one else is the giver of peace or happiness. One’s own karma, one’s own actions are responsible to come to bring either happiness or success or whatever.”

Understanding that we are the architects of our own destiny is empowering. Maharishi encourages us to take ownership of our lives by recognizing that our actions—our karma—lay the groundwork for our future experiences. Transcendental Meditation helps us cultivate a state of mind where positive actions flow naturally.

Consider your daily choices and their long-term effects on your life. Meditation can help you make decisions that align with your truest self and highest aspirations.

14. “Great amount of scientific research is there to show that health is better because transcendental meditation deals with consciousness, and consciousness is the basic value of all the physical expressions. The entire creation is the expression of consciousness.”

Science has come to recognize what Maharishi has long taught: the practice of Transcendental Meditation has tangible health benefits. This is because TM allows us to access a level of consciousness that is the foundation for our physical reality. By cultivating this consciousness, we improve our overall health and well-being.

15. “The constitution of the universe is total natural law. ‘Natural law,’ we say from the field of science. ‘Will of God,’ we say from the field of religion. It’s the same thing.”

Maharishi bridged the gap between science and spirituality, explaining that both are speaking of the same universal principles. Whether we call it natural law or the will of God, through Transcendental Meditation, we align ourselves with the fundamental order of the universe.

This understanding can bring a sense of unity and purpose to your meditation practice, as you connect with the universal laws that govern all of existence.

16. “The knowledge from an enlightened person breaks on the hard rocks of ignorance.”

Wisdom from those who have reached higher states of consciousness can shatter the illusions that keep us bound. Maharishi’s teachings challenge us to question our preconceived notions and to embrace a broader understanding of reality.

As you meditate, let go of rigid beliefs and allow the light of higher knowledge to transform your understanding of the world.

17. “Transcendental meditation is something that can be defined as a means to do what one wants to do in a better way, a right way, for maximum results.”

TM is not just a technique for relaxation; it’s a tool for enhancing every aspect of life. By practicing TM, you can approach your goals with clarity, creativity, and efficiency.

Whether you’re a student, a professional, or an artist, incorporate TM into your routine to excel in your pursuits with greater ease and success.

18. “I let people make remarks about me, but it doesn’t touch me, all those remarks.”

Maharishi’s equanimity in the face of criticism is a lesson in detachment. Through TM, we can develop a similar resilience, maintaining our inner peace regardless of external opinions or circumstances.

When you meditate, strengthen your sense of self so that external comments do not disturb your inner tranquility.

19. “Monks are not expected to speak about themselves; the message is important, not the person.”

The focus of Maharishi’s teachings was always on the message, not the messenger. He believed that the wisdom of Transcendental Meditation stood on its own, regardless of who was delivering it.

In your own practice, focus on the essence of the meditation experience, rather than any external trappings or identities. It is the message of inner peace and expanded consciousness that truly matters.

20. “All world conflicts will be resolved if people listen to my advice.”

Maharishi held a profound belief in the power of TM to create global harmony. By fostering individual peace, TM has the potential to influence collective consciousness and, therefore, bring about world peace

Concluding Thoughts on Maharishi Mahesh Yogi

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s Transcendental Meditation (TM) teachings are a transformative practice that promotes inner peace, happiness, and societal well-being. TM is universal, accessible to people of all backgrounds and ages, and emphasizes the importance of individual responsibility and the interconnectedness of all beings.

Maharishi’s teachings encourage individuals to recognize their inherent divinity, foster responsibility, and ethical behavior, recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings. TM’s potential contributes to personal growth, societal harmony, and global peace, fostering a more harmonious and enlightened world. By practicing TM, individuals can cultivate inner peace, promote well-being, and contribute to a more peaceful and harmonious world.