While in India early this year, I engaged in a rather long conversation with an experienced meditator and teacher from France to inquire about the ease of introducing Transcendental Meditation (TM) in her home country. She pointed out that the initial reluctance of individuals to delve into TM often stems from cost considerations.
I conveyed to her that a similar challenge exists anywhere in the world, where most common people often seek complimentary offerings, emphasizing the prevalent inclination towards cost-free options in almost anything. So, why isn’t TM provided free of charge, as is the case with many other meditation practices?
Why is personalized, comprehensive instruction deemed necessary for effective meditation? What motivates some people to choose TM over other, potentially cheaper or free alternatives? I would look at the personalized and comprehensive nature of the instruction required for learning TM. Choosing to learn TM involves navigating a process of “effortless transcending,” which, while natural, simple, and easy (as we all know), is remarkably “unique” or “delicate”.
You just can’t learn from a book or video. The subtlety of experiences on the path of TM requires qualified and dedicated teachers trained to guide students through the process, understanding their unique experiences and adjusting the teaching process accordingly.
Other meditation practices may incur lower costs or be offered at no charge due to their less time-intensive nature for instructors, or in some cases, the absence of a teacher altogether. I can’t speak on behalf of other TM meditators who may have paid different fees at alternative centers.
Learning TM doesn’t have to be expensive. I’m not referring to those who charge their service excessively. The nominal fees that I pay in local currency terms represent a lifetime program, encompassing one-on-one support and follow-up that enable me to attain the essential experience and understanding required for maximizing the benefits of TM in my daily life.