Maharishi Mahesh Yogi
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, born on January 12, 1917, and passing away on February 5, 2008, was an Indian philosopher and spiritual leader best known for developing the Transcendental Meditation (TM) technique. He gained international prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly for introducing TM to the Western world. Maharishi's teachings emphasized the importance of meditation for personal and societal well-being.
Key highlights of his life and work include:
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Transcendental Meditation (TM): Maharishi Mahesh Yogi is most famous for founding and promoting the Transcendental Meditation technique, which is a simple form of meditation that involves silently repeating a mantra to transcend thought and achieve a state of restful alertness. The technique became widely practiced, especially after being endorsed by famous figures such as The Beatles.
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Global Impact and Popularity: Maharishi's teachings spread across the globe, attracting a broad following. His influence reached many celebrities and public figures, which helped popularize TM, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s. His outreach included creating educational institutions, such as the Maharishi International University in Fairfield, Iowa, which focuses on integrating his meditation techniques into academic learning.
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Philosophical Approach: Maharishi combined elements of Vedanta (a school of Hindu philosophy) with modern scientific principles, framing Transcendental Meditation as a way to enhance mental clarity, improve health, and promote inner peace. His approach also emphasized the potential for societal transformation through the widespread adoption of meditation.
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Influence on the New Age Movement: His teachings were instrumental in the rise of the New Age movement in the West, as they blended Eastern philosophy with Western ideas of self-improvement, psychology, and health.
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Legacy: Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's influence remains significant in the realms of meditation and spiritual practices. His work continues to be a central reference in the study and practice of meditation worldwide, with millions of people practicing TM to this day.
His work left a lasting impact on both the spiritual and cultural landscape of the 20th century, with a focus on personal growth, inner peace, and the pursuit of higher consciousness.