Research has shown that regularity of TM practice—twice a day for 20 minutes for most adults—offers much greater benefit than meditating less.As Dr. David Orme-Johnson, one of the world’s leading researchers on the Transcendental Meditation technique, explains: “Multiple studies have shown that the benefits from the TM technique are directly proportional to regularity of practice. These include: greater decrease in neuroticism, heart attacks, strokes, and even death. Regular TM practice also leads to greater gains in autonomic stability (an indicator of less stress), resilience, intelligence, and sociability.” 

The best length of time to meditate is the time you were instructed by your TM teacher, which is usually 20 minutes for adults. In addition, be sure to take enough time to come out slowly before returning to activity. This routine offers the right balance of the deep rest of TM with daily activity. If you don’t have 20 minutes, meditate as much as you can, even 10 or 15 minutes, rather than skipping your meditation entirely, then finish later. Or try rescheduling, such as in the afternoon on a work break or later that evening when you get home. The busiest times are when you need it the most! Many people find that it helps to schedule their TM sessions as appointments “with my Self” every day, such as “6:00 to 6:30 a.m.: TM to start the day” and “5:00 to 5:30 p.m.: TM to recharge.” This ensures they make time to meditate.

One has to perceive Tm not as something they should do if they have time, but rather a set time of day that improves their physical and mental well being. After all, one wouldn’t skip a vital meeting with others, so why should they skip a vital meeting for themselves?