Trataka Meditation helps you develop peace of mind by focusing on an object(1). It helps you realize your true nature by allowing you to go beyond thoughts(2).
Introduction
Trataka Meditation is a simple practice that requires you to concentrate on candle light. It is also known as Trataka Meditation(3). To practice this meditation, you can focus on space, a wall, or even a picture(2). By meditating on an external object, you can completely free yourself of thought, dissolve the mind and connect with the Supreme Reality(2).
This meditation practice makes it easier to improve one’s concentration as it allows the practitioner to focus on an object of their preference(2). Since you are allowed to look at an external object you enjoy during this meditation practice, it helps you achieve better results(2). Ultimately, this form of meditation helps you go beyond the flow of thoughts and discover your true self(2).
History/Origins
Buddhist masters have been practicing concentration-based meditation for around twenty-six hundred years(4). The practice of concentration meditation is older than Bodhisattva Siddhartha himself. After he left his life of luxury, Bodhisattva Siddhartha studied under teachers who were accomplished in techniques of concentration meditation(4). For the rest of his life, he encouraged people to practice this form of meditation in order to achieve liberation(4).Many of Buddha’s ‘suttas’ (public talks) propounded the importance of concentration meditation. Even today’s meditation practitioners are using his teachings of this meditation practice for the purpose of purifying their mind(4).
Benefits of Trataka Meditation
A study(5) conducted on counselors has revealed that practicing Trataka Meditation can help them develop abilities to respond selectively to patients’ statements and develop empathic understanding. Both of these behaviors are fruitful in providing better care to the patients.
According to another study(6), practicing Trataka Meditation has health benefits such as improved efficiency of gas exchange in the lungs and an increased parasympathetic tone. A research study(7) also shows that concentration meditation is helpful in improving attention span in regular practitioners, especially in goal-oriented activities.
References
- Snow Lion | The Practice of Dzogchen by Longchen Rabjam
- Fingerprint! Publishing | 112 Meditations for Self Realization: Vigyan Bhairava Tantra, Translation and Commentary by Ranjit Chaudhri
- Prakash Pubns & Export | Meditations from the Tantras by Swami Satyananda Saraswati
