Based on the established connections between stress, the gut-brain axis, and the vagus nerve, practicing transcendental meditation can very likely lead to improved gut health and recovery.
The Gut-Brain Connection

The brain and the gut are in constant, two-way communication through a complex network known as the gut-brain axis. A key component of this axis is the vagus nerve, the longest cranial nerve in the body. It acts as a superhighway, sending signals from the brain to the gut and vice versa.
Stress, the Vagus Nerve, and Gut Dysbiosis.

When a person experiences sufficiently high stress, their body enters a “fight or flight” state. This response, mediated by the sympathetic nervous system, suppresses the “rest and digest” functions controlled by the parasympathetic nervous system, of which the vagus nerve is a major player.
This sustained stress and suppression of the vagus nerve can lead to:

Disruption of the gut microbiome: Stress hormones can alter the balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to a state of gut dysbiosis. This imbalance can reduce the population of beneficial bacteria and allow harmful microbes to flourish.

Increased intestinal permeability (leaky gut): Chronic stress can weaken the intestinal lining, allowing toxins, undigested food particles, and bacteria to “leak” into the bloodstream. This triggers a systemic inflammatory response.

Reduced motility: The stress response can slow down or speed up gut motility, leading to symptoms like constipation or diarrhoea.

Transcendental Meditation’s Role:

Transcendental Meditation (TM) is a specific type of meditation that’s been shown to induce a deep state of relaxation and activate the parasympathetic nervous system. It’s known to reduce stress, anxiety, and blood pressure. By consistently practicing TM, a person can strengthen their vagal tone, which is the activity and responsiveness of the vagus nerve.

When the vagus nerve is stimulated and vagal tone is improved, it helps to:

Regulate the stress response: It brings the body back into a “rest and digest” state, counteracting the negative effects of chronic stress.

Reduce inflammation: The vagus nerve has a natural anti-inflammatory effect. By increasing its activity, TM can help reduce the chronic low-grade inflammation associated with gut dysbiosis and leaky gut.

Support a healthy microbiome: A relaxed state and reduced inflammation create a more hospitable environment for beneficial gut bacteria to thrive.

In essence: By consciously and consistently calming the nervous system through TM, a person is indirectly but powerfully supporting their gut health. Because stress hormones can alter the balance of bacteria in the gut. TM can help the gut recover from the negative effects of stress, dysbiosis and intestinal permeability, potentially leading to a reduction in gut-related symptoms and overall improved health.