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Transcendental meditation shows promise as PTSD therapy


Identifying effective treatments for combat veterans battling post-traumatic stress disorder is a top priority for researchers and clinicians. A variety of talk therapies and medications are available that provide relief to many. However, recognizing the limitations with traditional treatments for PTSD, interest in alternative therapies is growing.

And more importantly, so far, the evidence is promising.

Transcendental meditation, typically referred to as TM, is one of those promising alternative therapies.

Originating in India in the 1950s, TM is the practice of meditation that incorporates the use of a word or sound that helps the person meditate and move beyond conscious awareness. It’s typically practiced for 20 minutes twice a day while the person sits in a relaxed position with eyes closed.