This article is about the Hatha Yoga kriya of Tratak - candle meditation.
Hatha Yoga Kriyas from Yoga in Daily Life - The System by Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda
“Hatha Yoga is the path of practice and purification - internal, as well as external. It is therefore an additional path to the four traditional paths (Bhakti, Gyan, Karma and Raj Yoga). Regular practice of these exercises requires willpower and discipline and that is why this path is called Hatha Yoga.
HA-THA, also means sun and moon. This refers to the union and harmony of the sun and moon principles, which result from the practice of Hatha Yoga.
There are six purification techniques that pertain to Hatha Yoga, called Shat Karma Kriyas or Shat Karmas.”
Tratak - The Power of Concentration
Trataka is a simple but powerful cleansing technique. It has a strong effect on the ajna chakra and washes and cleanses the eyes from the inside out. While staring at the candle the vision is still operating and the eyes remain focused, this causes a gentle strain and eventually the eyes start to burn and tears begin to flow, leaving the eyes bright and clear. It also focuses the mind, giving us a view of its wavering tendencies.
Technique:
Sit in a comfortable meditation posture in front of a candle about arms length away and the flame at the same height as your chest. The flame should be away from draughts so the flame remains steady.
Close your eyes and start to allow yourself to relax. Mentally know there is a candle in front of you. Open your eyes and stare at the flame without blinking. Direct your gaze to the very brightest part of the flame. Stare at the flame for 10-15 seconds.
You can gradually build up to 1 minute.
Close the eyes again and allow the image of the flame to appear. Concentrate on the image, if it does not appear don't worry. Repeat two more times and the image will appear. Do not exceed the length of time given. The ability to stare and not blink should be developed gradually. While observing the image of the flame behind the closed eyelids notice the characteristics of the flame; the colour, the shape and the distance the flame is away from you. Just notice without trying to control the image. If it fades away try to bring it back.
When finished sit quietly for some time and notice the effects of this practice.
Benefits:
The practice balances the nervous system relieving nervous tension, anxiety, depression and insomnia. Improves the memory, develops good concentration and willpower and is a great preparation for meditation.
See Yoga in Daily Life - The System by Parmhans Swami Maheshwarananda for more information on the Hatha Yoga Kriyas.
