A meditação transcendental de Maharishi Mahesh Yogi (1918-2008): um caminho de realização espiritual

Abstract

The present research aims at presenting the practical philosophy of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's Transcendental Meditation, its proposal to be an effective way to "spiritual liberation" (mokṣa), its institutional dimension and its unfolding. This technique of meditation aims not only to provide a higher quality of life for the individual, but also and fundamentally to offer an instrument of self-knowledge, true personal and spiritual transformation. According to his founding master, Transcendental Meditation encompasses the full development of the human being in all its aspects – psychological, physiological, social, behavioral and spiritual –culminating in his ultimate goal, which is to make "a freed being in life" (jīvanmukta). Transcendental Meditation has its origin in the Indian philosophical traditions of Advaita Vedānta and Yoga. This technique of meditation was not confined to his home country, it was scattered around the world due to Maharishi's ability to adapt an ancient knowledge so that it could be understood by different cultures. He presented the millennial Vedic science according to the context and the prevailing thinking of the secular contemporary world, thus using modern scientific language. The methodology of this research consisted of bibliographical basis, being the main source, the works produced by Maharishi. As a complementary source were used the books and research developed by the institution itself, as well as by the disciples and researchers of Transcendental Meditation. This research has brought a reflection on the essential value of meditation practice beyond the physical, psychological and socio-behavioral benefits that promote health, well-being and quality of life. This deeper perspective brings the understanding of meditation as a practice that aims at the integral and maximum development of the condition of the human being, and thus of his possibility to live a life of perennial fullness, peace and happiness. With this, the full presence of the subject can provide peace for everyone around him.