(He's visiting me tomorrow evening. May be able to answer questions for you then or after.) They live in Fairfield, Iowa, U.S. 'home' of T.M.

I tried it; didn't take.

what is the difference between TM and other meditations?

Why is TM unique?
1. It's completely effortless, no degree of concentration or contemplation is involved.
2. According to independently published peer-reviewed research:

TM is the only meditation technique that research has shown can reduce heart disease.
TM is the only meditation technique that research has shown can decrease mortality
TM is the only meditation technique that research has shown can decrease the need for medical care utilization
TM s the only meditation technique that has been shown to reduce medical expenditures.
TM is the only meditation technique that has been shown to increase EEG brain wave coherence

All of the the above are based on what are known as "hard" measures, no subjective assessment involved in the results shown, only objective assessments which eliminates bias, etc.

To appreciate this it's important to know that an increase in EEG coherence has been shown by independently published peer-reviewed research to result in everything good about the brain, including but not limited to, increased IQ, faster reaction time, increased academic performance, increased moral reasoning.

3. If we want to consider "soft" measures where the opinions of the subjects are taken into consideration then this is what independently published peer-reviewed research shows:

TM increases Self-Actualization 3 times more than any other meditation or relaxation technique.
TM is the best technique to decrease anxiety, and decrease stress
TM is the best technique to reduce drug, alcohol and cigarette use.
TM technique is the only technique shown to improve the body’s reaction to stress.

I've been practicing TM for many years. Learning TM from a certified TM teacher is the best decision I ever made. It's easy to learn, effortless to practice and you being to appreciate benefits right away. The benefits accumulate quickly if you are regular in the practice morning and evening. There is a life-time of free follow-up available if you desire: the ability to get your meditation "checked" by a certified TM teacher when/if you feel the need as well as free advanced Lectures and refresher courses. Look forward to deep relaxation, clearer thinking, and an easier time getting things done efficiently, just to name a few