ABSTRACT
In this essay, I would like to consider the relationship between spiritual growth and recovery from addictive behavior, giving special attention to the role that the Transcendental Meditation program (TM) can play in recovery. I would like to make clear that for me, this is a very personal statement. I am writing it purely from my own individual perspective and experience as a priest who has practiced Transcendental Meditation and seen its relevance to the problem of addiction and other problems we face as individuals and as a society. I have drawn on the teachings of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi to explain the mechanics and value of Transcendental Meditation in this context, but the connections I have drawn between TM, spirituality, recovery, and religion reflect my own views on the subject.
