And the physiology of stress in turn increases anxiety through the increase of LC activity. On the other hand, when stress is primary, it causes increased anxiety that reinforces the stress condition. TM gives rise to a positive serotonine balance TM has been found to lower the cortisol level. A lowering has been demonstrated during TM practice. The lowering is greater in those who practice TM regularly.
Regular practice is thus likely to increase the average serotonine level.
A study found a change in the cortisol response during a stress provocation test before and after four months of TM practice. The cortisol increased more during the test and afterwards it returned rapidly to the low pre-test level. This indicates that TM develops a more optimal way of responding to demanding situations. The level of stress hormones is normally low. When required this makes it possible to mobilize higher levels when they are needed.