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Transcendental meditation can replenish energy, not just relax.
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Scientific studies show effects on brain waves, stress, and alertness.
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Regular practice can improve energy and clarity throughout the day.
I’ve always loved Jerry Seinfeld—not just for his comedy or his legendary show, but for his dedication to writing. Then one day, I discovered something that made him even more relatable: in an interview, he wasn’t talking about comedy or writing but about meditation. And what he said was different from the usual advice. It wasn’t the familiar “it relaxes you” message but something I hadn’t thought of before—an idea that might inspire even more people to meditate.
Like most, I’ve always seen meditation as a way to unwind, and it does work that way. But Seinfeld added a new layer, saying that, for him, meditation is a source of energy—the opposite of relaxation, really.
Meditation as a source of energy
Seinfeld finds a deep power in meditation, calling it a “source of renewable energy.” He practices transcendental meditation (TM), but I suspect the same principle applies to other types. It’s not just about calming the mind; it’s about recharging. Regular meditators, like Seinfeld, see this as common knowledge.
Meditation is more than a pause
Seinfeld meditates twice or more daily, typically once in the morning and once in the afternoon. Transcendental meditation involves focusing on a mantra—a word or sound that leads to a deep mental state. TM is known for fostering a deep mental disconnect, which, as Seinfeld says, “replenishes energy.” From my experience, even basic meditation has this effect: after just 10-15 minutes, I feel re-energized, as if the day’s fatigue has lifted.
Science backs this up—brain imaging shows that transcendental meditation affects areas of the brain tied to stress regulation and emotional balance, decreasing the prefrontal cortex’s activity, which is usually responsible for rational thinking and worry. This change leads to a profound state of relaxation that recharges not just the mind but the body. It’s not that new energy is created out of nowhere; rather, the energy we already have is redirected to focus on the present. This releases energy.
Like a deep sleep
Seinfeld contrasts rest from meditation with rest from sleep. He says if you look at a bed after a long night’s sleep, it looks “undone,” not exactly like a place of real regeneration. It’s an image that pushes us to rethink sleep’s role in recharging. While sleep is essential, it doesn’t always give us the maximum benefit, especially if it’s poor or interrupted. Meditation, on the other hand, can offer conscious rest that boosts our energy reserves in a way sleep sometimes can’t. This isn’t to say sleep is unimportant; sleep is critical for processing memories and muscle recovery. Meditation, however, provides a unique, focused rest that revitalizes energy.
It’s not magic
So, why does meditation feel so energizing? Neuroscience suggests that TM changes brainwave activity, enhancing the theta and alpha waves associated with relaxation and calmness. These rhythms relax the body and mind, providing a form of rest that even sleep doesn’t always achieve. In other words, meditation doesn’t just calm us down; it’s like a quick mental “fast charge,” akin to boosting a low battery.
How to fit meditation into your day
If meditation has never interested you, but “producing energy” does, here are a few ways to start:
- Find the right time: Many people prefer the morning or late afternoon, when the mind is quieter. Even just 10 minutes a day is enough to start.
- Choose a quiet space: If you can’t find a peaceful environment, earphones with soothing sounds can help. Instead of music, try ambient sounds like Tibetan bells, whale calls, or white noise—music may engage the mind more than you want.
- Use a mantra: A simple word or sound is enough. The mantra acts as an anchor for the mind, keeping it steady.
- Be consistent: Regularity is more important than time spent. Just a few minutes each day will make a difference.
Rest to find the energy you already have
Seeing meditation as an energy source may change your view on rest and energy. This isn’t the tired satisfaction you feel after a workout. Instead, meditation clears distractions and background noise, allowing you to tap into the energy you already have. Just like recharging your phone each night, meditation can be a quick recharge—especially during times of stress or fatigue. Think of it as just a few minutes (less time than you might spend on Instagram or TikTok), and you’ll see that both mind and body respond with renewed vitality.