The Power of Transcendental Meditation - Strength in Stillness

Simply put it is not a life altering or even a significant thought provoking literature. The most useful part is a guide to local TM centers near you where you can pay around $1000 to really, really learn TM in 4 short lessons. Can you say “Sales pitch”

This is the original click bait. All that the book does is try to sell you on taking a class or booking lessons. This should be a free brochure in a doctors office, not something for which you should trick people into buying.

A great description & knowledge of what TM is and how to Learn it & how it can work in ones life. I am reading this leading up to my actual TM training & it's helped me feel positive & grateful to be adding it to my life.

Bob Roth is a truly gifted TM teacher, an expert at explaining how the TM technique works and how it is different from every other type of meditation. I am particularly impressed with the detailed explanation of how each sort of meditation affects the brain. And all the personal "Meditative Moments" give a great variety of experiences from people in differing situations. The other striking feature of this book is the expression of Bob's great love and compassion for all people, and his dedication to teaching anyone who is ready and has the time to learn.
As a long-term TM teacher myself, I look forward to instructing anyone inspired by reading this book, as they will have gained a good understanding of what this technique can do, and how it is taught.

I learned Transcendental Meditation in 1975. It was the single best decision I ever made in my life because it effected all areas of my life. I have been meditating regularly since then. Bob Roth's book is an excellent introduction to TM. You cannot learn TM from a book but you can get inspired to learn TM from reading this book. If you want more happiness in your life and you want to enjoy your life more, then buy this book, and then take the necessary steps to learn TM. It could very well change your life.

A wonderfully clear and direct assessment of the benefits of TM practice; an excellent intro and good for veterans to reconnect with their practice. No book can teach the TM method (you need a teacher for that) but this one teaches WHY you should practice TM. Disclosure: the author is a friend though I bought this at regular retail, and can think of no finer guide to hand to someone in your life who is considering meditation.

The book tells countless stories of how a simple easy to learn meditation technique has helped many successful people. Oprah, Ray Dailo Jerry Sinefield and others are all referenced or quoted as to how simple and effective the technique is. The catch, the book states you can’t learn this simple technique without a 4 days of instruction from a personal instructor! No techinques for meditation are given in this book only the websites to allow you to sign up for close to a $1000 dollar seminar. Save your money there are many well written meditation books that give actual techniques and are not just sales flyers.

I bought this book because it said it was a way to learn TM, well it is just a bunch of bragging on who he has taught. I went to a meeting to learn this technique they wanted $900.00 for 5 sessions and I found it a little cult driven. BAD JUJU

Waste of money. The book was a giant "infomercial". It was page after page of people's stories of how wonderful TM is. This might be true but the book could be summed up in one paragraph that says "pay your thousand dollars and attend a meditation class with an instructor near you".

It's a self promotional ad book full of testimonials with the end goal of you to go find a teacher. Look if you wanna learn TM, find free articles online, read on it and then decide if its right for you and find a teacher. Dont buy the book only to find that out.

This is a book about the joys in TM. A name-dropping account by Bob Roth that never tells you how to actually do TM. Yes, maybe you can get training and a mantra for free. I can't, and probably you can't either. (It'll cost you just under a thousand bucks.). Plus the cost of this book, Which will tell you nothing about how to meditate.

This book is a cheap sales pitch and not an actual guide to learning TM. Before reading the book I was very excited to learn about TM, after reading the book, I am now 100% not going to ever try it. I felt during the whole book that I was sitting with a cara sales man who is trying to sell me a car but at the same time wouldn’t let me “test drive” it first. He is like buy the car first, pay for it, then you will be happy! No thanks!

I've heard great things about TM. When I saw this book coming out, I ordered it before its release. I struggle with anxiety and thought this would be another piece to my road to healing. I was super dissapointed after several chapters in when I realized this book does not teach how to do TM. It basically tries to sell you on paying to take a TM course, which is VERY expensive!

This book does not teach Transcendental meditation it sells it. Not what I expected. I don’t care about success stories. Not interested in people promoting their services. I prefer doing things myself through autodidaction. If you want to read what it can do, how it worked for some people this book is for you. If you want to learn how to practice TM this book is worthless. I wasted 11 dollars!

This book is a must for anyone who wants to learn about the benefits of TM and how this meditation can help your mind and body. It’s an important work in the field of meditation and uses research and actual case studies to explore the positive outcomes. The author has been practicing and teaching TM for so many years that his personal experiences resonate with readers. If you practice TM , you will find many useful insights about your practice.

Thank you Bob Roth for a wonderfully concise volume on the power of TM. Written in simple to understand language, yet loaded with scientific research and testimonials from people from all walks of life and cultural backgrounds, from the well known and the unknown – all of whom found a way to step out of whirlpool of trauma and suffering through Transcendental Meditation. I learned TM many years ago. It has strengthened me deeply, giving me a much needed stabilizing influence in my life. Now, in my more advanced years, I feel so fortunate to state that have never been happier, healthier or more fulfilled. Bob Roth's book has all the relevant info on TM for a better life in today's world.

WASTE OF MONEY, do not buy this book it is a sales pitch,,,i was one of many gullible people who actually thought it would teach me about TM..it does not!!!!!! saw Bob Roth on GMA promoting this book and rushed to buy it....feel like i have been dupped

TM course costs $500-960.
See TM.org/course-fee

This $24 book, although it is a very good book for what it is, does not teach you how to practice the TM technique at 5% of the course price shown on the TM web site, although some readers were either too naive to think it would or too lazy to search for "TM cost". Many of those disappointed people showed their lack of insight in a public review forum like this by commenting on how the book is worthless.
It is worth a lot if you are looking for more info about TM before attending the intro lecture at a TM center or paying the course fee.
And TM is an excellent tool for coping with life's stressors, grief, insomnia, and mild to moderate depression and anxiety.

Just because the TM technique or this book costs money does not diminish the value for those who really need it and can afford it.

Actually, the TM course price is a bargain if you have already invested in other things like yoga, psychologist, psychiatrist, self help, or other meditation techniques that didn't help enough or in the right way.

Will TM *replace* a healthy diet, regular exercise, and a medical doctor if you have major health concerns?
Probably not.
But it could really help tremendously.

For clinical mood disorders requiring hospitalization and doctor's care, the TM technique is a substantial tool but medication and therapy would probably be needed for stability first.
Then TM could be used to reduce the medication to make you feel human and like life is actually worth living.

It takes 4 months to a year with regular TM practice to grow the beneficial calming effect sufficiently to extend into daily active life.
Beyond that period, the effects still seem to increase as time goes on.

I am 66 years old, have bipolar disorder, and was on lithium and other prescription meds for many decades.
I also used to run 30 miles a week to manage my moods until my body couldn't run anymore.
During times that I was unable to run regularly or went off meds entirely because they kept me from experiencing emotions, I thought about death and dying frequently.

I searched for ways to achieve contentment without meds that dulled my emotions and thinking, caused weight gain, and messed with my heart and kidneys.
I found mindfulness, yoga, and then TM.
The reason that I didn't try TM initially was due to the cost.

Mindfulness is a great thing for bringing oneself to the present moment when having acute emotional upset or ruminating about past events or worrying about the future.

Yoga is good for increasing mindfulness thru the breathing technique (pranayama), stimulating the vagus nerve and asanas stimulate the organs and blood flow.

TM is different from these but it isn't a case of one is better than the others.
It is a case of what you need and how effective it is for getting you what you need most.

With both running and TM, I experienced the "zone" at times both during running or TM practice as well as outside that time.
The "zone" is what I consider to be contentment and joy.

If you feel that TM or the book:
1) cost too much
2) seem cultish
The bottom line is it works.

Learning the TM technique is not a cult and it isn't religion or philosphy although it is derived from the ancient Indian Vedic literature.
You can walk away from your course and never hear from the TM org or David Lynch Foundation again if you wish.

Maharishi was not a god, but he did come up with the packaging of the TM technique so that people living modern lives could reap the benefits without having to meditate hours a day living in solitude in a cave in the Himalayas.

I recommend Bob Roth's book because it is very good at telling you the benefits of TM which are definitely true based on my experience.

I highly recommend the TM technique because it provides a way to achieve calm and contentment in life.

If you already have achieved contentment in life, then you don't need this book or TM.

I thought that this book would explain more. Only way to get to the bottom of this Meditation is sign up for their 4 classes. cost 960...Anyway I meditate and love it hoping this would take me to another level but book is just a bunch of...

This book deserves 3 stars:
-It is thoughtful, well-written, and beautifully designed.
-The stories are inspiring. Practicing a simple meditation like TM does indeed reduce stress!
-Many of the insights are terrific, like Roth's description of the "gotta-gotta-gotta" mind and quotes like: "The world is as you are."
-Those who are giving it 1 star reviews, because it does not teach the TM technique, are missing the point:
The book is not called "How to Do TM." It is called "The Power of Transcendental Meditation."
So why just 3 stars??
-Roth is not transparent about the TM initiation ceremony or the mantra.
-About the ceremony: He says on page 52 : "...it is not religious in any way." This is not the case. Here is my personal experience:
-Before you receive your mantra you are asked to bring several "offerings" that are placed on an altar. Does that sound non-religious?!
-The teacher chants/prays/and praises Guru Dev in the "presence" of his picture. This is more than observing a thank you tradition.
You ARE invited to watch and participate via your payment, offerings and by kneelng at the altar under Guru Dev's picture.
-Key point not mentioned in the book: At the conclusion of this Hindu-based "Puja" initiation ceremony, your TM teacher directs you to kneel with him/her at the altar below the image of Guru Dev. If you are asked to get on your knees at a religious service with offerings, candles, an altar, etc, how is that just "observing"?

If you want to learn TM, you must go through this spiritual/religious rite. And this is not explained (in a transparent way) at TM centers or in Roth's book.

-About the mantra: Roth says on page 54: "You will be given the mantra that is best suited for you." He makes it sound like this is a personalized process. It is not. Truth is: You will receive a pre-determined mantra based strictly on your age. In other words, two different people who are the same age, will receive the very same mantra. Roth should state the facts and say: "The mantra you receive is based on your age." Minet.org shows the actual mantras online. Note: The one I received is precisely the same mantra that is shown--based on my age--at Minet.org

All of this might be fine IF in the initiation process--or in Roth's book--the facts were explained upfront. But the "secret" stuff and the celebrity endorsements are used to make everything feel mystical--and valuable for the money (almost $1,000).
BTW, I don't have a problem with TM charging whatever fee they want to charge. The problem with TM, and Roth's book, is TRANSPARENCY.

Is there value in meditation and this book? Yes. Is the book or TM candid about the process? No.

I practice TM and was hoping this book would get into the nitty gritty of what happens when you meditate, it goes no deeper than the basic information you get when you go to a TM center for the first time. Bob Roth writes mostly about all the famous people who do TM and all the great
things TM has done for people. Nothing new to me

I bought the book on account of the recommendation of Ray Dalio. Since I have been meditating for a while, I was excited to learn how to do TM. This book is just a long and boring account of something I already know and agree with! It does not say a word on actually how to do it.

Big waste of time and money!!

I am among the disappointed who bought the book to learn how to actually do TM which this book does not provide. I would have returned it if I had gotten a chance to read it more quickly to find this out.

This is not the book for you if you wish to learn how to perform transcendental meditation. If you are uncertain about whether TM is a good idea, or something you should consider doing, or are not aware of the types of benefits can provide, then this would be a good book for you. If you do not need to be sold on the benefits of TM, don’t waste your time. The book is the same message, that TM is good for you and easy to do and not a religion, over and over and over again. Since I have no problem believing that TM is a very good idea, I found myself just flipping through the pages without reading them.

Full disclosure I'm not finished with this book yet. But felt compelled to get down an initial impression that is bothering me.

The author really sticks to the company line of TM that "it's not religious, new agey, whacky, or anything like that. It's scientifically backed and simple to use". The he explains how we use a mantra, and it's unique to us, a word or phrase that we use while meditating. The only way to get this is from a TM teacher who can read us and know which mantra will suit us. The mantra just happens to be Sanskrit with roots in Hinduism and typically invoking a Hindu God. That sounds pretty religious and un-scientific. What difference could a word I don't even understand make? how could another person just know what mantra suits me? In order to do that I have to believe this TM teacher can read my energy and coordinate a proper Sanskrit phrase praising a Hindu God?

I'm still going to try it, heck why not. But to get access to a TM teacher I've learned will cost over $1000. Not a ton of money for 1:1 coaching, but not exactly cheap to just take a flyer on it working.

This book provides a simple, clear explanation of Transcendental Meditation and its profound benefits. I've practiced the technique daily for 48 years (!!!) and think it's the best and most accessible introduction I've seen. No, you can't learn this meditation technique online or from a book. You learn it from a certified teacher who makes sure you're doing it correctly, without effort. Read the first-hand experiences of people whose lives have been transformed from the technique. You'd have to be a huge cynic to write those off. Nobody could make that stuff up. Whether you choose to learn it or not, Roth's book provides excellent background for you to decide.

I really wanted to like this book....If you want to learn how to meditate using TM, this is not the book for you. Having meditated for years, applying meditation styles that include TM, I was enthused to read this book.

As a Psychologist, I've read the science on the impact of meditation on brain structures, resilience, performance and well-being. And I have adapted meditation and progressive relaxation techniques to enable my clients to face down challenges as athletes and as 'corporate competitors' and as ordinary people blindsided by life's curve balls like life-threatening illness or life-altering injuries. So I really wanted to like this book and to refer clients to it as an additional resource.

Instead, it reads like a repetitive advertisement for TM over other meditation methods with lots of big name dropping of who uses TM and who the author has trained in TM- and never offers advice to the reader on how to use TM other than to go to a teacher and pay for the program. If you want to learn how to meditate, read Dan Harris' book.

I am surprised how much I liked reading this book. My wife bought it for me and encouraged me to read it. She has been meditating daily for years and although she's always told me I could do it and would like it, I always have thought, No Way. I have enough trouble trying to fit in all the stuff I already have to do, and always figured that trying to meditate would just be another chore to add to my over-scheduled life. This book actually gives me hope. It explains that there is a way you can learn to meditate so that you can actually enjoy doing every day. It finally makes sense to me why so many approaches to meditation are hard to do and stick with, and how there are ways to meditate effectively without straining at it. I liked reading about what science has learned about meditation, and all the inspiring stories of hundreds of thousands of inner city kids and veterans with PTSD learning to meditate. It's inspiring and gives me some hope for the future of this crazy world. Good read.

Its an easy read and gives benefits to why the practice of Transcendental Mediation is superior to other forms, but the book does not give away any techniques to the practice. Instead, you are coached to find a certified teacher in TM and pay 4 monthly payments of $240 to learn your secret mantra from meeting with the teacher. The claim is that these mantras are specific to you and that has been the practice for 5000 years. I hear that, but I'm not sure 5000 years ago they were charging $1000 to learn the practice. Doesn't make sense to me at all.

I saw the Bob Roth interview this morning on Good Morning America. I've always been interested in TM but had never taken the time to learn about it. I was fascinated by Mr. Roth's brief explanation of his book and the fact that George Stephanopoulos (one of the hardest working people in the news business) practices TM. I decided to purchase "Strength in Stillness" via Audible. I listened to the entire book in about 4 hours and enjoyed learning about the history of TM and the resources available for those who are interested in learning it. I will be following up with contacting an instructor nearby.

Several people have left negative comments about this book saying "it does not teach you how to do TM", and because of that "it's a waste of money". I do not agree with their criticism. If you pay attention, Mr. Roth states many times how important it is to see a trained TM instructor who will work with you on a personal level. He also explains why, even though he'd love to give the world TM for free, it just isn't logical. Read the book for the history and the statistics. Go find an teacher to help you with your journey.

Over 45 years as a teacher of Transcendental Meditation, Bob Roth has instructed thousands of people in this simple and effective practice. His students include star professional athletes, combat veterans with PTSD, hedge fund managers, kids and teachers in "inner city" schools, celebrities like Katy Perry and Jerry Seinfeld, military leaders, scientists, and just about every kind of person you can think of. In these pages you will hear first-hand as some of these people – including the author - tell their stories of how TM has positively affected their lives. And you'll read about research on the benefits of TM. Yet it's an easy read, in the friendly, clear, and energetic style that makes Bob such an effective and beloved teacher. A great introduction to a practice that has helped to bring greater happiness, success, and fulfillment to millions of lives.

I picked up a copy at one of Bob's talks promoting this book and I couldn't put it down! He is an excellent speaker and teacher. Hearing his stories and the stories from his students, it resonated so deeply with my own life changing, and life saving experiences with TM. I had grown up knowing how to do TM and even though I had wonderful experiences with it as a kid, I was super skeptical and judgemental of it in my teens for many reasons. Mostly, I had not done it in years so I was lacking the clear experience of it, and instead only had a vague memory thatvit was something I had done as a child. And it just seemed so corporate and blah. That was until I desperately needed it as I was anxious, incredibly sick, struggling with addictions, and ADD. I sat down to meditate one day. And BOOM! IT WAS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PEACE I HAD EVER ECPETIENCED. WHAT A GIFT!!!!! I have done It regularly for the past 23 years and it has continued to bring so many positive things in my life. Daily it relieves my stress and gives me so much joy, love, and creativity. I see that there are haters and I get it. But it's too bad their hate is based on false information and blinds them to the reality of the technique and the many scientifically proven benefits. Bob shared a story from Michael J Fox who has Parkinson's Disease and was blown away by the settling down of his body during his TM practice. His tremors would stop. I have witnessed this in my life with friends and family members who also suffer from PD. That when they sit to do TM, their body is still. It is such a relief. Thank you Bob Roth for writing such an inspiring book that will help so many people!!!!

I feel deceived. By buying a book on TM a reasonable assumption would be that it teaches you the actual technique. But it doesn't.

The first third of the book is about how wonderful and beneficial TM is. The second third is comically, a description of the procedure you will go through when you pay thousands for personalised instruction in order to actually learn the technique. And the final third I couldn't really be bothered reading but it is something about the author's journey, without telling you how to actually meditate.

In short, this book fails to inform prospective buyers that it doesn't actually teach TM, rather it introduces it and the benefits. It is basically a bait and switch.

It is useless book for me. It does not teach you the process of meditation. If you want to read about author's bragging as to whom he taught TM then go ahead and buy it. But think "how is it going to help me?"

This book was not at all what I expected. It read like a sales brochure, complete with celebrity name-dropping and cheesy endorsements throughout, a lot of repeating the same information over and over again, and a long personal biography of the author and his various works. And the kicker is, Roth doesn't even tell the reader HOW to meditate! We get the instructions of twice per day, sitting anywhere, and you'll focus on a mantra, but the rest is SECRET and you have to find a TM teacher to learn it - no doubt so we can all drop some $$$ just like our favorite celebrities, so TM teachers like Roth can take more famous-person-begging-for-help phone calls during halftime at another "Knicks game at Madison Square Garden." Barf. This book is a huge waste of time.

I was moved by how clear and simple this book was and how much it's affected my daily meditation practice. I would recommend it for anyone interested in TM or in meditating in general. Smart, simple, useful. I highly recommend this book.

I loved the book; I found it to be clear and concise, and it did a great job of explaining how this simple practice can benefit all of us. I have many friends who practice TM - doctors, writers, lawyers, business people, teachers. I have also seen lots of teenagers and college kids benefit from TM, and feel its benefits. The book reminds us that TM is really for any of us who are too busy, feel stressed, have trouble sleeping, or seek more energy. I also respect that in the book, Roth explains that there are many types of meditations and he makes a point of not judging the others; he only points out that different meditations have different outcomes, that people need lots of tools in their toolbox and that there is in fact, a lot of solid research on TM. Its a good, easy primer on what TM is and what its not.

This book is perfect! It is the result of the author's forty plus years of teaching TM. Nothing has been written like it. Clear, precise, informative, easily understood and enjoyable. What a primer, an insight and an inspiration to interested individuals and teachers of TM young and old. To know there is a simple procedure, taught one on one with a qualified teacher, to unfold one's inner potential and enjoy life more fully is such a gift in today's complex and demanding world.

I live and work in midtown Manhattan and even when I close all the windows, my brain is drowned in noise. Bob Roth has made a compelling case for the practice of TM and its ability to drown out that noise and replace it with calm, quiet and serenity. He has personally taught this technique to Jerry Seinfeld, Howard Stern, Ellen DeGeneres, Katy Perry and Ray Dalio, CEO of the largest hedge fund in America. We all have our triggers. They don't let us see clearly and worse , bring out bad emotions. This technique will reduce these triggers, anxieties and fears and replace them with a belief in your own power. If nothing else - than the power to achieve a calm mind, a quiet presence in which to think clearly and act correctly.
Helping our vets is a passion of mine and helping them with PTSD is of the highest importance. TM has proved its worth over the years and in fact the Military Health System Research Symposium in August 2017, called it the gold standard in significantly reducing trauma and depression compared with other modalities after 3 months trial. Bobby Roth has given of himself tirelessly over the course of his life. The soon of a doctor, he gave up medicine and probably has helped cure more people through TM than Western Medicine. TM is taught in inner schools, prisons, hospitals and government institutions to great acclaim. Kudos to Bobby Roth for this engaging and heartfelt tome in explaining how to achieve strength through the stillness of one's mind.

I thought this was a really lively, easy-to-read introduction to a really interesting subject. The writing is very simple and clear and not at all esoteric (or even particularly new-Age). Rightly or wrongly, I might have innocently hoped to learn to meditate from a book... it didn't offer that, but it did make a pretty good case for learning from a trained teacher. I also found the testimonials very genuine and inspiring. The fact that some of them came from people who have been doing TM for a long time (like Jerry Seinfeld or David Lynch) makes me feel more confident that TM is not just the latest fad. And the fact that the author is donating all of his profit from the book to help teach underprivileged kids and veterans for free helps put my mind at rest that this is not just another scheme to make a quick buck. I'd recommend this book to anyone who has a genuine interest in learning more about meditation in general and TM in particular.

I wish Transcendental Meditation could be learned from a book, but most true skills are rarely acquired that way. However, this book is currently the best way I know of to quickly determine if learning TM is for you. Bob Roth's keen intellect and flowing heart are evident while he explains what you can expect, day by day, during a 4 day TM course with a trained instructor (only 90 minutes for each session.) At the end of that course you will have fallen into the practice with as much skill and ease as someone like myself who has been doing it for decades. When you get the book be sure to take note of actor Michael J. Fox's story of how the technique impacted his Parkinson's disease. It brought tears to my eyes. If you already practice TM but have had difficulty trying to describe it to friends, be sure to have a copy or two on hand to loan out.

If you are looking for instructions on how to actually meditate, look elsewhere. If you are looking for a 4-hour-long advertisement for Transcendental Meditation that gives no practical instruction whatsoever, then by all means purchase this book.

I'm incredibly disappointed that I purchased this book, since I was looking for something with actual instruction. What you will find, instead are stories of the origins of Transcendental Meditation ("TM" if you're drinking the Kool-Aid), famous people who practice TM, and the results of poorly controlled studies that claim health benefits of TM.

I've practiced various types of meditation in the past (mostly mindfulness-based) and am very familiar with the general idea, so I was excited for an introduction into Transcendental Meditation. After realizing this was just an advertisement, and that the TM community appears to be a giant money-grab, I suppose I've learned only one thing: TM isn't for me.

If you want a clear, compelling guide to TM, this book is for you. So many books on meditation are 90% fluff and 10% content, but this book is smart and no-nonsense. Highly recommended for anyone searching for a new way to deal with stress.

This is a really wonderful book and delightful to read. It’s nice to see a book about TM and its benefits, with such interesting stories. Bob Roth has a great writing style, so it’s hard to put down. It’s also impressive how Bob has dedicated his entire life to helping others, and by offering something that has such far-reaching benefits in people’s lives.

I have practiced Transcendental Meditation since I was 16, a senior in high school. I’m now 63. It still amazes me how effortless and effective TM is. Pretty much every time I sit to meditate, after a few minutes I’ll notice that my whole body has just relaxed completely, with no effort on my part. And it’s like a refreshing 20-minute mini vacation from the noise and commotion of the rest of the world… and from everything I’m normally having to think about.

I feel compassion for those reviewers who were hoping this book would teach them the technique of TM. I can only encourage them to get beyond whatever holds them back from actually learning the technique. It is life-altering, and the most simple, natural, easy tool to reconnect with your silent, calm inner self. Once you learn TM, you have that tool for life.

Very enjoyable book to read. Great explanation of TM. Great technique. My thank-you to Bob Roth.

The dilution of yoga and meditation is far beyond what I can handle sometimes. Most people know Transcendental Meditation is not taught through a book and you learn it from a teacher in person. I did so in the 70s and it's the only way to learn. I would never expect someone to think to buy this book, and then that they're going to learn Transcendental Meditation. Any book that promises that I would run away from. I feel bad for the glow reviews, it's only because folks Didn't Know Better.

This book is must-read for anyone interested in learning about meditation, or struggling to cope with the epidemic of stress. This book alone cannot teach you Transcendental Meditation, that is not it's intent. The fact that you cannot learn TM from a book alone is part of what makes TM different from other forms of meditation. Learning TM is a deeply personal experience, and must be taught in a one on one setting with a certified TM teacher. The purpose of this accessible and enjoyable book is to introduce you to the history and basic principles of TM, and explain some of the scientific research underpinning this ancient tradition. It's a really enjoyable read, and expertly accomplishes it's goal, which is to introduce you to this special practice, and get you excited to pursue next steps to learning TM!

Incredibly insightful and interesting book on TM. If you're curious about beginning a TM journey, this book is a good starting point. If you're an experienced TM practitioner, this book serves as a nice compliment to your practice.

I'm so amazed at the things this excellent book has to offer - I finally understand how TM is different from other meditations, actual research information from outside sources about how TM helps the body and mind, and a look into the background and journey of author and teacher Bob Roth. It's so clear and compelling. I totally enjoyed it and learned so much (and really appreciate how he's using TM to help people). A must read for sure.

DO NOT BUY THIS BOOK...If I could give it less than one star I would... it teaches you nothing about TM is actually just an elongated pitch for his services... an avid reader and very disappointed in the product

The main reason that I bought this book was because I thought that it was a fund raiser for projects to teach meditation to vets. Actually I'm not sure what the status of that project currently is. Aside from that, I am disappointed to find it to excessively highlight all of the author's "power clients." It's a little heavy on the implication that everyone is driven to meditate to be fortune 500 mega rich, or a pop celebrity. I have seen Bob Roth speak and he seems clear and dedicated to TM, which I truly appreciate because I do benefit greatly from my TM practice, but I would find this book more satisfying if it portrayed more depth of character on the author's behalf and included more everyday, humble stories and experiences. I just find the whole "rock star" meditation teacher as unappealing as the current "rock star" yoga teacher trend. To be fair, this might not bother someone else. That being said, I find that reading books on meditation in general a boost of inspiration to stay committed to the practice, so I am grateful at least for that.

Very inspiring and impressive.
Finally someone who presents meditation (TM in this case) as a practical thing - a technique - and finally a technique that actually works apparently works better than all or most other.

Strength in Stillness by Bob Roth is a free NetGalley ebook that I read in early February.

More than just a testimonial for transcendental meditation (or TM) and its benefits against stress, PTSD, and autism, Roth tells of his teaming up with David Lynch and Dr John Hagelin to create the David Lynch Foundation, the program Freedom Behind Bars for the inmates of San Quentin, Quiet Time for children in schools across the globe, scientific studies of TM, and the difference of TM being not just Focused Attention but also Open Monitoring.

This is a very simple yet comprehensive review of the Transcendental Meditation technique as described by practitioners of all types. Bob has a unique skill in presenting these conversations in a very friendly and inviting way. The simplicity of the TM technique lends itself to being of profound practical use for all levels and segments of society. The David Lynch Foundation should be commended for its tireless efforts in bringing this great gift to those less fortunate members of society whose lives have forever been changed for the better. TM brings peace, joy, and meaning to the world one life at a time. A very simple, subtle, and powerful technique that can not be learned from a book or a tape but only from a certified instructor.

Simple but moving account of Robert Roth's experiences teaching the TM technique and the profound changes it has made in the lives of the people who choose to practice it regularly. He also describes the process of learning TM, its uniqueness, what to expect and what its not. You won't learn how to do TM from this book or any book. To learn properly you'll need individual instruction from a certified instructor. As someone who has practiced TM from over 3 decades, I can only tell you, its worth doing and might be the most important thing you learn in your life because it makes everything else you do or experience in life better. This book is a great way to familiarize yourself with what TM is (and the experiences people have with it), and hopefully when you have you'll be inspired to learn it and use out as a tool to beat stress and get maximum from life.

I only made it to chapter 10 of 24 and learned a lot about the great people the author has worked with and what I might expect if I went to a TM class or course. I always expect there to be a lot of fluff as authors need to fill more pages than they have material, but this seems to be one long commercial for TM without any useful information. Sorry, but if there is info it would have been helpful to give some of it away in the first 1/2 of the book.

I purchased the book thinking it would be a guide to Transcendental Meditation but it just keeps repeating how great it is but doesn't explain has to do it. The book does not teach you how to meditate. Used as an incentive to attend his workshops. Very disappointing.

Before reading any self-help book, it is wise to ascertain whether or not the author personally exemplifies the benefits that author's technique is reported to provide. Those of us from Bob Roth's home community can assure you that there is no gap between this man and his message. There's a reason that this book feels like good advice from a trusted friend—someone charming, noble and knowledgable. Bob is that. Those of us who have been practicing the Transcendental Meditation technique for decades can also assure you that what he says about TM is true. It works and the longer TM is part of your life, the better life gets. Strength in Silence is clear, well-documented and entertaining. So buy and read this fine short book. Learn TM and experience the strength of your own inner silence and the countless blessings that come from doing so. Then thank yourself for the rest of your days that you, at last, truly know the Self that all self-help books seek to discover and uphold.

Great book Bob Roth!! You are totally amazing! What a great life work of spreading peace to at-risk populations around the world. I know that if Transcendental Meditation could be taught by reading a book, you would have written that book. Since each person is unique in their process of learning TM, it is crucial to have a trained teacher to just whisper the instructions at the right time. Otherwise it is like so many other kind of techniques where you start to concentrate or control the mind. TM is so effective because it is easy and using the minds own natural tendency to go towards what is more pleasant and what most people do not know that they have a treasure inside and transcendence is a state of bliss, peace and stillness. We are so conditioned to think that joy is outside, but you are pointing the way to know that it is all inside and it is easy to access this treasure! Thank you!!

I learned TM in 1970 and have done it twice daily without fail ever since. A giddy profound sense of joy came to wind through everything. My every action unfolds along a line that spontaneously balances between good for me and what‘s good for us all as a whole. I am supremely confident and worry free. My migraines disappeared long ago. Blood pressure is perfect. Sleep is deep, easy, and nourishing. Through my glasses the world is a spectacularly wonderful place, and I expect to develop into a wildly ecstatic, energetic, grateful nonogenarian who understands that the world is literally made of bliss, and is fully prepared and enthused to greet the wonders of whatever comes next. That is what TM did for me. Read Bobby Roth’s book Strength in Stillness for a full explanation of how life could become like that and even better and then, because no book could ever teach you how to meditate, go find a certified teacher, and learn TM, and begin living.

Kudos to Mr. Roth for sharing his insights and experiences with teaching the Transcendental Meditation technique to such a wide array of people in different walks of life. When it comes to mental health and well being, to treating PTSD, anxiety, depression, we are always searching for effective ways to help those dear to us who are suffering with these issues. Strength in Stillness provides an easy to read and concise description of how this ancient and simple practice can help so many people relieve their symptoms and start to heal from the quiet depths of their own inner being. We all have this profound silence within us, and yet so few of us can regularly access that, and even more so, actualize that silence into our thoughts, feelings, and behavior. For our family, this book has opened a whole new perspective on how to help deal with the overwhelming stress and demands of daily life. It's a must read for these turbulent times.

I loved this book. Bob Roth is very accessible and informative about what TM is and isn't, and how and why it works. He also clarifies why one needs to learn TM in a four-day course with a certified TM instructor, and how it's different from other meditations. As a TM meditator myself, I found his review of the basics and how to maximize the benefits of my practice invaluable.

I also loved the "Meditative Moments"--the stories from TM meditators, from veterans and students to CEOs and superstars, about how their TM practice has helped them be more of who they want to be and do what they want to create and give to the world. It was also fascinating to learn more about Bob Roth's life and how he came to TM and the start of the David Lynch Foundation.

I'm going to give this book to my friends who've been curious about TM-- it's a perfect introduction, and wholly inspiring for meditators too.

My ex and I mutually filed for divorce on January 01 of this year. It was a surprisingly quick and civil process, but once we got the ball rolling I found myself very lost.. I had forgotten who I was. I must have bought a dozen books about “finding/speaking your truth” in that first week. By far the most effective read is “The Integrity Advantage.”

This book has been a mirror that I can see my pain, my wants, my fears… all of myself in. As I’m rediscovering my single, unattached self (and a new business venture) this book has become my guide and inner voice. It’s a very quick and funny read. My friends have enjoyed it as well. If you want more from the author, Kelley Kosow, I’ve found great videos of her on her website. This is only her first book, but I truly hope she writes more!

I am not solely writing a review of the book, but also addressing some of the one-star negative reviews.

Strength in Stillness will not teach you TM, much like a book on sports injuries will not heal your broken leg, or a book on mental illness cannot act as a therapist. It's a short history of TM, Bob's experience in TM, a day-by-day outline of a TM course, plus loads of data (some anecdotal, to be sure).

That said, the book outlines the process of TM, 20-minutes of mantra repetition in the morning, 20-minutes of mantra repetition in the evening. It is no more complicated than that, which I suspect has people confused they are being left out of something. Mantras are not given for a distinct purpose, as if you have context to what's intended as a contextless word, it will not achieve its purpose of lulling your mental state.

Furthermore, there's a lot of dated (and in some cases, wholly inaccurate) claims made about TM in the reviews, specifically in the cost. When I took the class, the center offered me a discounted rate a discounted rate of a few hundred dollars, which isn't something to sneeze at, but when it comes to mental health, that is less than a few therapy sessions. My understanding is the Lynch Foundation, as well as people like Ray Dalio, offer scholarships so you can do it for free should you not have the means.

I went in as a complete skeptic when I first learned TM. I practiced mindfulness for a while, respected David Lynch, and had a history with TM practitioners in my family which didn't do TM any favors in terms of my perception of the type of people who practice TM. That said, I wanted to go in, try it, and have the experience to know if it was a load of BS.

I have meditated for only nine months now, but the changes in my life are substantial. To be clear, it's not some miracle cure all. It won't solve your problems for you, but it's a tool you can use to solve your own problems. I use it in conjuction with traditional conversational therapy, SSRIs, and regular physical activity/exerise. TM's tool is bringing my mind to a state of relaxation and stillness no other form of meditation has brought me. It's also filled in the mental hole I would previously have filled with marijuana use, overeating, and other such vices. I've lost fifty pounds, improved my work output, deal with problems better than I have, become a better partner to my wife, and have had some unexpected side effects including improving my chess game and increasing my reading comprehension/speed.

I wasn't thrilled about the cost either, even though it was much lower than I expected, but as soon as the classes started, I understood why a teacher is necessary. It's not just teaching you the practice, it's having someone with the experience guiding you through. I forget if Bob mentioned this in the book, but you also receive permanant access to teachers across North America, so you can always go in for a refresher.

I can't stress this enough -TM isn't going to do the things for you that it did for me unless you understand it's a tool. You can have a hammer, but it won't bang in the nails for you. A crowbar is only useful if put your physical strength into it. I do recommend the practice, as much as I recommend and enjoyed Bob's book. I borrowed it from the library, read it in two short sittings, but as soon as I finish writing this review I will be purchasing my own copy to reference in the future.

This is a great, easy-to-follow overview of the basics of Transcendental Meditation. It is not meant to teach the technique itself, but I found it very useful in explaining how TM works and highlighting experiences of many different people who practice it. I've been doing TM for seven years now and I will start recommending this book to any of my friends who are curious to know more about TM or seeing if it might be something they're interested in exploring further by going to an introductory talk with a certified teacher. Overall an entertaining and interesting resource for anyone who has already learned to meditate and especially for those who are just curious and looking to know more.

I did enjoy the book learning ABOUT TM and the stories BUT i was very disappointed that it does NOT teach how to do TM...,I’m in a small Wyoming town and there is not a certified trainer in my area....I mistakenly assumed this was a book to teach HOW to find the strength in stillness....it does NOT....sad face.

For anyone interested in TM (or any meditation) this book is a must. It won't teach the technique, but rather explain, in simple terms, the many benefits that meditation has to offer. For those who already meditate, this book will provide additional insight from one of the greatest TM experts, Bob Roth. I plan on buying several more copies to give as gifts!

This book is the best guide to meditation I’ve ever read. In a very clear, accessible way, it explains the three forms of meditation that science has identified — and explains how they work and their benefits and effects. Highly recommended!

I’ve been meditating for a long time and am always looking for an effective way to convey how much TM benefits my life. This book is so well written and compelling, that going forward it will be the book I give to friends and those I care about. Thank you Bob Roth! You are brilliant!

I was interested in the content of this book but quickly became curious as to when I would actually LEARN this amazing technique. It wasn't until I read some of the comments that I became aware this book doesn't teach you anything. I wish that somewhere in the 200 pages the author could have been clear as to what he is selling. It's a shame my first impression with TM is a horrible one.

Over the last few years I’ve been seeing Bob Roth appearing on TV shows, talking about TM and was kind of inspired to start meditating myself, but never got around to it. A friend who does TM just sent me this book and I found myself finishing it in a couple of days. I was very inspired by the book… no more procrastinating… I called the TM office in town and made an appointment to finally learn how to meditate. One thing I was surprised about was how compact the book was and how easy it is to carry around. The book is hard bound and has a very high quality feel.

All meditations are not created equal: if you want to know what Transcendental Meditation or (TM), is and isn't, buy this book.

While it won't teach you TM, it'll tell you how TM is learned and where you can go to learn it.

Finally, the excerpt from the book below, will inspire you to reconsider meditation afresh:

"There's so much evidence validating the benefits of meditation that even the most skeptical among us has to (perhaps begrudgingly) acknowledge that something significant, something important, is going on when we meditate."

If you don't know what TM is or how it differs from other meditations, this is the book for you. Once you've read it, you'll want to learn how to do it. I suggest learning as soon as possible. TM has served me well from the time I left the military 45 years ago right up to present day.

Waste of money if you actually want to learn how to do TM. The secrecy makes it seem cultish. Thanks but I’ll stick with my mindfulness and gratitude meditations. Nothing “effortless “ and easy should be this expensive. How is someone going to personalize my mantra after 4 days?

A huge disappointment. The first 50 pages are nothing more than a sales job, touting the benefits of TM. In other words, you are being sold to, again and again, despite the fact that you have already bought. Testimonial after testimonial, claim after (repetitive) claim, of the benefits TM allegedly provides. On page 51, when at last the words, "Let's get to it," finally appear, the only thing "got to" is that you are told you need a teacher---that the book does not supply the very instruction for which you bought it. In fact, the book supplies no instruction whatsoever. It is a colossal disappointment, and does not fulfil on the promise it implies. To spend money on a book only to be told the book can't teach you the subject you bought it to learn is a deception. I am at an utter loss to understand the positive reviews associated with this book. Presumably, the author has lots of friends. Devoid of meaningful, instructive content, this book has nothing to say.

Although this book does a great job of highlighting the benefits of Transcendental Meditation, it is essentially nothing more than a 200-page sales brochure that you have to pay for. It is not what it claims to be: "a clear and practical guide to calming mind, body, and spirit." TM may be good, but this book is a total ripoff.

If I could rate this book with zero stars I would. This book is a complete disappointment. I was so excited to receive my book and to start readying; however, several pages in, the author states that every person needs a "personalized mantra" in order to practice TM successfully and you can only get your mantra from a trained TM teacher. I kept reading because I thought that the author would suggest other ideas on how to get your mantra. I was wrong! At this point, I Googled TM practitioners near me and found out that the closest one is 3 hours away. As I kept researching, I also found out that most TM practices cost upwards of $1500.00 in order to get your personalized mantra. This book talks about TM in detail, yes! But the information is useless unless you pay for your mantra.

What I liked the most about this book was reading that there are a lot of people out there that are really trying to help people be happier. It was so wonderful to see all that is being done to make life so much better for so many people who had lost all hope of having even an normal life. Also that they are doing so much to help the children makes me think they are the modern heroes of our world.

What a great, comprehensive look at Transcendental Meditation--it's background, the science and research documenting its benefits and effects, the widespread applications, and a good sense of how universally good a tool TM is for anyone who wants a better, stress-free, full life. I highly recommend this book as an easy and enjoyable way to explore what TM is and why you might want to learn it.

Bob Roth's book is a clear and informative way to learn about how Transcendental Meditation works. It lays it out simply and easily so anyone can be inspired to get started. A lot of people think that meditation is really difficult, but after reading this book i look forward to spreading the word about how easy it actually can be. It was also to great to see that any one can do it.

I read a very compelling book about meditation. Just before this one: You Are The Placebo. This one though feels like a comercial designed to lure you into TM which up until now I believe is just another option for meditation, and not as they claim: the better one. I can’t say I learned anything from this one.

Bob Roth has a very personable way of describing the research and benefits of TM. Good as a first step if you're considering learning to meditate. But it's not a DIY "How-To" instructional book, and he explains why TM is taught privately

I will recommend this book. I thought I was just going to read about TM. I didn't expect to enjoy reading about it! But I did. It's entertaining, and light, and joyful. It seems to be an honest explanation of what TM is all about. Right from the beginning it seemed down to earth. I can relate to that.

As 33% of the reviewers to date say, this book is one big advertisement to get you to go find a TM teacher. It does not teach practice even at an introductory level. The book itself is false advertising and I am going to try to return it even though I’ve had it for more than 30 days because I finally got around to reading it.

If you are interested in Transcendental meditation, no need to buy this book. Save your money for when you will need to pay the teacher. Bob Roth goes on and on with a thousand examples of people who have done TM without giving you a single instruction on how to do it. It is also quite boring, you read the first few pages and you read it all.

Fantastic book! so informative. It really breaks down TM and how it can help someone remove stress and fatigue.
Also some great stories about people who have tried TM and how it works for them.
A great book for anyone who wants to learn TM but needs more information prior to taking the course.

This book sucks! I’m not saying TM sucks, but I wouldn’t know since this book taught me nothing about how to actually do TM. It’s a huge advertisement for TM. Save yourself $15 and just go find a teacher, since that’s what this book tells you to do anyway...

There is no need to buy a book or pay to learn TM or any type of meditation. There is much free information on how to meditate. This book like a few others are simply a sales pitch. I do believe it is inappropriate to charge in anyway to learn meditation. If you need a Mantra use a simple one -such as OM.

The most accessible introduction to Transcendental Meditation I have ever seen. Bob Roth is a master teacher who writes in a warm and personal way. The book is a very easy read and yet comprehensive. The book does not teach one how to do TM, but it provides an inspiring rationale for the practice.

doesn't teach you TM, would not have bought had i known. an introduction to the concept with lots of examples of well known people and their experiences but not at all useful as anything other than a brochure for TM

Doesn’t actually teach you anything just a sales pitch to go the website to sign up for classes. Save your money and just go to the website to learn more and sign up if you want to learn how to do it but it’ll cost you about $700-1000 to join

LOVED this book! Gave such a thorough understanding of TM. Been practicing for a while now and has changed my life in profound ways. This book really gives you the push to go learn TM if you've been thinking abut it. Would HIGHLY recommend!

The following description is misleading. "A simple, practical, and straightforward guide to Transcendental Meditation from world authority Bob Roth". This book only describes benefits and is more of a literature review about studies on benefits of meditation. It does NOT provide details on carrying out TM. If that's what you are looking for, this book is NOT for you.

Discusses the benefits of Transcendental Meditation but we were very disappointed because it does not teach TM. Has a lot of “case studies," name dropping and celebrity endorsements, more like an infomercial.

While I find the book informative I’m VERY DISAPPOINTED in that it does NOT teach TM. It tells you to hire a teacher .... well geez then I could have saved myself $12 and put that toward the HUNDREDS of dollars it costs to meet with a TM teacher... thanks for nothing Bob.

TM organization is certainly a "for profit" organization. I have been very disappointed in trying to learn TM through them because all I have ever received are exorbitant prices for their classes, so it is no surprise that this book is merely an advertisement for their capitalistic spirituality.

I especially like how you can feel as if Bob is talking to you, personally, throughout the book. Lots of interesting stories of real-life people. And the sciency stuff is easy to understand. A great read!

I have no doubt that there is benefit to be found in the TM technique. That is why I immediately purchased the Kindle and Audio versions the day it was released. I was however, incredibly disappointed to find this book was nothing more than a brochure of anecdotes and testimonials, directing you to find a TM teacher. The the store description says “A simple, practical, and straightforward guide to Transcendental Meditation”. A disingenuous description in my opinion. It would have been more “straightforward” for it to have included a “guide” map of all the TM locations and for the description to say “How TM can help You, let me guide you to the nearest location.” I think what David Lynch is doing is great, and far more in line with what the Maharishi claimed his intent was early on, by making it available to all. But it is, as always, still not being made easily available to everyone exactly, unless you can afford to write the check at one of their official franchised locations. Though the cost has come down in recent years, the organization appears to still thrive upon the secret handshake type environment. By the description, I thought this book was going to be the breakthrough, to make it affordable and available to the masses.
I understand they go to great lengths legally to make sure no one outside their organization is sharing the TM technique (I thought it was important to share this key to tranquility with all?). Sounds like TM more importantly stands for TradeMark. Note: I would not have taken the time to make this comment if I had not purchased it based on what turned out to be a misleading description. I still intend to research the TM technique. Money aside, I’m just not ready for the fruit, flowers, handkerchief, incense, follow-up group meetings and praise to Maharishi’s portrait to also be a mandatory requirement for learning it. Interesting how this book tried to smooth over that initiation type environment as well.
Again, I was expecting something straightforward, and a guide. This book was neither.

This is not a book on how to learn transcendental meditation, it's a giant infomercial. Sure, it will tell you all about it, why it's so great, who thinks it's so great and all the benefits, etc. But in the end, they direct you to a teacher who will teach you, one on one, for a very large fee, and tell you your secret mantra word that you can't tell anyone else. Don't live near a teacher? Too bad. Don't have thousands to spend? Too bad. Only money and location gives you access to this meditation. Oh, BTW, since I'm not an audible member, I don't get to return the audio book, so now I get a lovely reminder of the $8.00 4-hour infomercial I got suckered into purchasing.

I got 85 pages into this book and realized it was trying to sell me meditation courses for over $900! Very disappointed. I felt like it preyed on people who are desperate for self-help, and working to improve themselves. Google mantra meditation and get what you need for free.

Roth's book is a marketing brochure for TM. With nothing new to say, he relies on celebrity anecdotes and overhyped research to claim TM is better than other meditations. In fact, TM is a Hindu religious practice using deception in an attempt to insert itself in public schools. For example, he describes the ceremony preceding TM instruction simply as a "thank you" when it is a Hindu religious ceremony known as a "puja" that is chanted in Sanskrit by the teacher in front of an altar. The teacher makes 18 offerings before a photo of Maharishi's teacher at the ​conclusion of which the teacher bows down to the picture and invites the student to join in bowing down. Does this sound like it belongs in a public school, especially when every monotheistic religion considers this idolatry? TM will never provide a translation of the puja because Maharishi's teacher is repeatedly referred to as a god. Roth gives three criteria for selecting the mantra (the sound used to meditate) when he and every TM teacher knows that the student's age is the only criteria. Maharishi said his mantras are the names of Hindu gods.
Roth states that the American Heart Association (AHA) concluded TM is the only meditation shown to lower blood pressure. In truth, the study said the effects of TM on lowering blood pressure are modest, and it is not certain if TM is superior to other meditation techniques due to the paucity of head-to-head studies. An official of the AHA said the organization was embarrassed by TM's overstating the study's conclusions for commercial purposes. As a former TM teacher who knows the religious underpinnings of TM, I knew that TM did not belong in public schools. The deceptions were so pervasive that I decided to write a book exposing them. Transcendental Deception: Behind the TM curtain - bogus science, hidden agendas, and David Lynch's campaign to push a million public school kids into Transcendental Meditation