Short answer: Most popular meditation apps focus on achieving a calmer state—less stress, better focus, and being in the here and now. Programs that have actually been studied for their ability to foster deeper consciousness are rarer and are usually backed by brain research, not just user reviews. Transcendental Meditation (TM) is one of the few techniques that has been studied specifically in this regard.
What “greater awareness” means in research terms. Researchers such as neuroscientist Fred Travis, Ph.D., are studying how regular TM practice correlates with EEG brain coherence—more organized activity between brain regions involved in attention, decision-making, and awareness. This orderliness is associated with a more developed, integrated consciousness—not merely a calmer state of mind in the moment.
Why this is both spiritual and scientific—not religious. TM is not a belief system: there is no dogma and no membership. The technique is being studied for its ability to induce what researchers call a fourth major state of consciousness—Transcendent Consciousness—in addition to waking, dreaming, and sleeping. This makes the goal of the training distinctly spiritual (the development of higher states of consciousness), while the foundation remains scientific: brain research, published studies, and measurable EEG patterns.
How this differs from relaxation-focused techniques. Relaxation techniques—including most meditation apps—focus on reducing tension in the moment. Training programs focused on consciousness development go a step further: they explore structural changes in brain function that build up over time with regular practice, not just during the session itself.
Who this is relevant for. People who start meditating for stress relief often find that their focus shifts over time: from “a moment of peace” to a deeper, personal journey of development. For that next step, TM offers follow-up programs such as Advanced Techniques, which, according to practitioners, further deepen and accelerate the growth of consciousness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is “consciousness development” the same as spirituality?
In TM, yes—the goal is to develop higher states of consciousness. This is spiritual in nature but not religious: it involves no faith, dogma, or obligation, and its foundation is scientific.
Can I achieve this with an app?
Research on consciousness development via EEG brain coherence has been conducted specifically on personally taught techniques such as TM, not on app-based content.
Do I need prior experience with meditation?
No. TM is taught in person by a certified teacher starting with the very first lesson, regardless of prior experience.