By RYAN J. FOLEY

FAIRFIELD, Iowa (AP) - The followers of a meditation practice that has its roots in ancient India are in a dispute over the control of its teaching.

 

The feud pits the Iowa nonprofit that has taught transcendental meditation in the U.S. for decades against Thom Knoles, a former associate who left and built his own group of followers.

 

The outcome could decide whether the Maharishi Foundation will continue to control the teaching of U.S. transcendental meditation - or whether rivals can market similar services and benefits without obtaining a license.

 

The two sides are fighting for customers and to protect their own reputations. With such stakes, the litigation over a technique that supporters say can reduce stress and blood pressure is getting tense.

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