Understanding the difference
Vedic Meditation vs Transcendental Meditation
Two names, one ancient tradition. Here's how they compare.
In short
Same roots, different paths.
Vedic Meditation and Transcendental Meditation (TM) come from the same tradition and use the same kind of technique: an effortless, personal mantra practised for 20 minutes twice a day. The main difference is how they're taught. TM is taught through a single organisation with a standardised program, while Vedic Meditation is taught by independent teachers trained in the same lineage.
Shared origins
Where both come from.
Both practices trace back to the Vedic tradition of India, where mantra meditation was passed from teacher to student for thousands of years. In the late 1950s, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi began teaching this technique around the world under the name Transcendental Meditation, and the TM organisation has taught it ever since.
Over time, some teachers trained in this tradition chose to teach independently, outside the TM organisation. To distinguish their teaching, many use the name Vedic Meditation, after the Vedas the practice comes from.
Mike Watts's teaching comes through Vedic master Maharishi Vyasanand Giri, who received the knowledge from Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Mike is an independent teacher and isn't affiliated with any proprietary organisation.
Side by side
How they compare.
| Vedic Meditation | Transcendental Meditation | |
|---|---|---|
| Technique | Effortless, personal mantra. No concentration or control. | Effortless, personal mantra. No concentration or control. |
| Daily practice | 20 minutes, twice a day, sitting comfortably. | 20 minutes, twice a day, sitting comfortably. |
| How it's learnt | In person over four consecutive sessions. | In person over a short series of sessions. |
| Who teaches it | Independent teachers trained in the Vedic tradition. | Teachers certified by the TM organisation. |
| Course fee | Set by each teacher. Mike follows the tradition of Guru Dakshina, an offering of around one week's income. | Set centrally by the TM organisation. |
| Afterwards | Ongoing support from your teacher: group meditations, check-ins and further courses in Vedic knowledge. | Follow-up through TM centres. |
Transcendental Meditation and TM are trademarks of their respective owner. Watts Meditation is independent and not affiliated with the TM organisation.
Choosing
Which one is right for you?
If you're drawn to the technique itself, either path will teach you an effortless, mantra-based meditation. The real choice is about the person teaching you and how you want to learn.
Vedic Meditation suits people who want a personal relationship with their teacher, a small and relaxed course, and a community to keep practising with. With Mike, you learn in person in Bondi over four days, and you're supported for life.
Questions
Good to know.
Is Vedic Meditation the same as TM?
The two techniques are very similar and share the same origins. The main differences are in how they're taught: Transcendental Meditation through one central organisation, Vedic Meditation through independent teachers.
Which is better, Vedic Meditation or Transcendental Meditation?
Neither is better in itself. Both are effortless, mantra-based techniques practised for 20 minutes twice a day. The best choice is the teacher and learning format that suit you.
I learnt TM. Can I come to Vedic Meditation group sits?
Many people who learnt TM feel at home in Vedic Meditation circles. Get in touch and Mike can talk you through options, including a refresher.
Who teaches Vedic Meditation in Sydney?
Mike Watts teaches Vedic Meditation in person in Bondi, Sydney. See the next course.
Start with a conversation.
A short, no-pressure chat with Mike about where you're at and what you're looking for.
