Member-only story
Trataka — the Art of Candle Gazing for Creativity
Our ancestors understood the power of sitting around the fire. There is science behind the power of the flames dancing amongst wood that elicits deeper brainwave states, thus allowing humanity to enter into an altered state of consciousness. It was within this altered state that our ancestors were able to connect to Spirit — the Divine source of all creation — and the natural world that emanates from Spirit’s essence.
Living in the 21st century, it is easy for us to take the essence of light for granted. From one lit screen to another, from one light switch to the lightbulb, we have been surrounded by artificial light. But what about the power of the flame? The element of fire has so much potential and by connecting to it we are able to spark the light of inspiration and enlightenment within.
Trataka, meaning to gaze, is one of the six purification practices in Hatha yoga. It is a practice that involves staring at a single point of focus (a dot, a symbol, or flame) to bring energy to the third eye, thus opening up a deepening of insight and understanding in one’s life. According to yogic tradition there are various ways to deepen the practice of Trataka based on various candle flame positions, length of time, and when to perform this technique (such as after the asana yoga poses). As I am not a trained yogic practitioner, I cannot speak to that practice, but will share my view of Trataka from a more general sense.
A soul sister of mine talks often about Drishti — point of focus — and that word has stuck with me. The ability to maintain our focus on our dreams and the task at hand can be a godsend for the creative. We are bombarded with distractions and so Trataka can be such a benefit for the person who is working towards completing a project.
By diverting one’s attention to a single point, we are able to build our concentration and motivation. Developing Drishti through the use of Trataka, we can deepen our overall ability to make decisions, maintain concentration, improve memory, and even promote wellness (sleep, mood, and physical ailments).
There is also mention that one can build the internal flame of desire and power inside the sixth (sacral) chakra by practicing Trataka. The sixth chakra is closely related to creativity and the fun…
