The UK-based Be You Program, founded in 2012, has set itself the high aim of “transforming the lives and prospects of young people who struggle to fulfill their potential within the school system by teaching them valuable life skills and techniques.” As part of the program, students and teachers learned the Transcendental Meditation technique.
On the first day of their pilot project, co-founders Kitty de la Beche and Ricky Reemer told the students of the West Sussex Alternative Provision College, “Our goal is that each of you recognize the precious nature of who you really are and the immense opportunity that is your life. And that you develop a passion and confidence to go for what you want and to be who you are.”
WATCH VIDEO: Be You Program founders, school administrators, and students talk about the initiative 
Video directed by Nicolai Fischer, and produced by Kitty de la Beche. To stay updated about the future projects of Be You Program, follow their Facebook page
Transcendental Meditation (TM) is a simple, natural technique that allows individuals to experience a deep state of restful awareness. It is a form of meditation that has been practiced for thousands of years and has been scientifically validated as a powerful tool for promoting wellness, reducing stress, and improving academic performance. In recent years, TM has gained popularity among educators and students as a technique to help improve mental and physical well-being in schools. Here we will discuss the value of Transcendental Meditation in schools.
One of the main benefits of Transcendental Meditation is that it helps to reduce stress and anxiety. School can be a stressful environment for students and educators alike, with heavy workloads, tight schedules, and high expectations. TM allows individuals to relax and release stress, which can lead to improved mental health, better sleep patterns, and increased emotional stability. By practicing TM, students and educators can create a calm and peaceful classroom environment, where they can better focus on learning and teaching.
TM has been shown to improve academic performance. A study published in the journal Education found that students who practiced TM showed significant improvements in cognitive function, academic achievement, and overall wellbeing compared to a control group. The study also found that students who practiced TM had lower levels of stress and anxiety, which may have contributed to their improved academic performance. Another study found that TM improved working memory capacity in students, which is essential for academic success.
In addition to its benefits for students, TM can also be valuable for educators. Teachers who practice TM can reduce their own stress levels, improve their mental health, and create a more positive classroom environment. Research has also shown that TM can reduce teacher burnout, which is a significant issue in the education system. When teachers are feeling refreshed and energized, they can better connect with their students, which can lead to more effective teaching and learning.
Lastly, Transcendental Meditation can help students develop life skills that they can use outside of school. By practicing TM, students can learn how to manage stress, regulate their emotions, and focus their attention. These skills can be invaluable for success in all areas of life, including relationships, careers, and personal development.
In conclusion, Transcendental Meditation is a valuable tool that can benefit students, educators, and schools as a whole. By promoting wellness, reducing stress, and improving academic performance, TM can create a more positive and effective learning environment. Schools that incorporate TM into their curriculum can help their students develop essential life skills and improve their overall wellbeing. With its scientifically validated benefits, Transcendental Meditation is a technique that every school should consider implementing.
