Experiences and Reports of Correctional Officers and Inmates on the Benefitsof the TM Program

I have found that the advantages derived from the TM technique are positive in nature and conducive to every day living. My wife and I have both experienced clearer minds, in that our awareness is now on a much higher level. The TM technique has enabled us to release a great deal of stress. This has increased our ability to cope with problems.--John Zanoi, Procurement Officer II, Folsom State Prison, California, U.S.A.

In the four years that I have been practicing the Transcendental Meditation technique I have found that I experience a great reduction of stress and tension when I meditate regularly. This experience has led me to believe that this form of meditation could be extremely valuable to many men who are in prison and who are subjected to large amounts of stress as a result of either the environment, early life experiences, or individual physical differences.--Charles Steinke, Ph.D., Staff Psychologist, San Quentin Prison, California, U.S.A.

Concerning the staff, the number of days absent on grounds of ill health has become very few. In three months I have had only three cases of sickness, whereas before the practice of Transcendental Meditation, the staff were always inclined to try to get leave on health grounds. The impact of this program in terms of improved health of the inmates and prison officers is therefore quite decisive and very satisfying.--Papa Ndar Faye, Prison Warden, Kaffrine, Senegal, West Africa

I have observed positive changes within the meditating inmates. Initially the different race groups were apprehensive about closing their eyes together for twenty minutes, but now all the race groups gather together and conduct themselves as one, instead of alienation. I have seen attitude changes among inmates I have known for many years, changing from hostility to congeniality.--Bill McCuistion, Correctional Counselor, San Quentin Prison, California, U.S.A.

Coming back home after work, I would always be tense. Now, I have noticed a decrease in the level of tensions within me, and my wife was the first to tell me about it. She said that I have become very calm and cheerful with her and the children.--Abdoulaye Dia, Correctional Officer, Sébikotane, Senegal, West Africa

I have noticed this program gives a basis of communication between staff and inmate that is all too often lacking. Some of the people involved have begun to lose the "con-bull" relationship and to view each other in a different light. . . . I would highly recommend this program be expanded, as many inmates are interested but cannot be included with the limited classes now operating.--Richard Martin, Correctional Officer, Folsom State Prison, California, U.S.A.

Everyone who has worked in high security knows how stressful it is at times. I was mellow and calm about the whole situation. I didn't lose my temper like I sometimes do. I think I had a calming effect on the inmates themselves.-- John Carpenter, Correctional Officer, Rutland CCC, Vermont, U.S.A.

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