Transcendental meditation in America
Book Description
When the charismatic Indian spiritual teacher Maharishi Mahesh Yogi arrived in America during the turbulent 1960s and 70s, he brought with him a simple yet profound practice that would captivate a generation seeking inner peace amid social chaos. His teachings on Transcendental Meditation resonated deeply with Baby Boomers weary of conflict and cultural upheaval, offering them a pathway to tranquility through ancient wisdom.
Joseph Weber chronicles the remarkable story of how this spiritual movement took root in the American heartland. Two thousand devoted practitioners made an extraordinary commitment, relocating to the small town of Fairfield, Iowa, where they transformed a defunct college campus into their own educational institution. This wasn't merely about establishing another university, it was about creating a complete immersive environment where Transcendental Meditation could flourish at every level of human development.
The community's vision extended beyond higher education to encompass the entire learning journey, founding a school that welcomed children from prekindergarten through doctoral studies. This comprehensive approach allowed families to integrate meditative practices into every stage of their children's growth and education.
Weber explores how this spiritual experiment unfolded in small-town America, examining the intersection of Eastern philosophy and Western academic tradition. For readers interested in understanding how spiritual movements adapt and establish themselves in new cultural contexts, this account offers valuable insights into the practical challenges and transformative potential of bringing contemplative practices into everyday American life.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages)
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Understand psychological principles
- ✓ Explore Maharishi University of Management
- ✓ Explore History
- ✓ Develop practical self-improvement skills
- ✓ Explore Transcendental Meditation practice
- ✓ Explore Personal Growth
- ✓ Explore General
- ✓ Discover the nature of true happiness
