A popular form of meditation is Transcendental Meditation (TM). 

TM is a mantra meditation in which one focuses on a fixed mental object, said Dr. Maura Sullivan, a meditation teacher at Chico State. 

Before we go any further, what is a mantra?

A mantra is a sound, word or phrase, repeated to yourself, used as a way to displace usual thoughts and to move one's awareness inward.

Here are the easy steps to follow to practice mantra TM: 

1. Sit comfortably with back straight. A quiet place is preferred but not required.

2. Close eyes and breathe naturally. Sit about one minute before thinking about the mantra to allow heart and breathing to slow.

3. Gently bring attention to breathing and begin thinking of the mantra - let it come naturally, don't force anything. If using the "hamsa" mantra, think "ham" on the inhale and "sa" on the exhale.

4. Allow your thoughts and feelings to come and go naturally. Do not control them, just note them. When you realize you've forgotten the mantra, gently return to it. Don't try to think the mantra over other thoughts.

5. Meditate this way for 20 minutes.

6. When time is up, take a minute or two to return to normal awareness and then gently stand.

Back to lead story

Check out the benefits meditation has to offer!

Why do it? A doctor's reasons.

My experience as a meditating college student.