SPJIMR hosts a five-day Transcendental Meditation Programme for employee well-being

At SPJIMR, well-being is an important part of creating an environment in which people can learn, contribute and grow. Continuing this focus, the Institute hosted a five-day Transcendental Meditation (TM) Programme for its employees from 10 to 14 August 2026.

Facilitated by Dr Lane Wagger, International Director of the Maharishi Corporate Development Programme and a certified teacher of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s Transcendental Meditation technique, the programme introduced employees to a structured approach to developing a regular TM practice. The programme’s approach views human consciousness as a fundamental resource for organisations, with an emphasis on creativity, alertness, efficiency, health and well-being.

Across five consecutive days, employees participated in two-hour sessions that progressively introduced the practice. The sessions covered an introduction to TM, personal instruction, guidance on correct practice, understanding stress release and the broader goals of the practice.

For the SPJIMR community, the programme created a deliberate space within the working day to pause and turn attention inward. Beyond learning a new practice, employees had an opportunity to step away from the pace of everyday responsibilities, practise together and reflect on their own well-being. The experience brought together relaxation, mindfulness, mental clarity and personal reflection, reinforcing the Institute’s commitment to supporting the holistic development of its people.

The programme also created a shared experience for colleagues across the Institute. By making time for reflection and well-being within the workplace, it encouraged employees to consider how practices that support personal balance can complement professional responsibilities.

Participants valued the clarity and practical approach of the programme. Reflecting on the experience, Dipankar Behera, Lead Manager, Alumni Relations Office at SPJIMR, said, “What stood out most was understanding the ‘why’ behind the practice. Once Lane explained the rationale for the term ‘transcendental’, the whole approach clicked, making it feel less like a technique and more like a coherent idea. His instructions were clear and well-structured, making the learning curve much gentler than I expected. Looking back, every hour invested felt worth it.”

The initiative reflects SPJIMR’s broader approach to employee well-being: creating an institutional culture where people have the space and support to look after themselves while contributing meaningfully to the community.