Blinkless Gazing - Trataka

An exercise mainly intended to improve eyesight and the power of concentration via the technique of gazing at one point. There are different techniques available for this purpose, but the one advocated by Yogis is to use a lighted candle. This is practised as follows:

Sit in one of the meditative postures, preferably in Padma Asana. Keep a lighted candle two to three feet away at the level of the eyes. The spine should be kept erect but the whole body should be relaxed. Gaze intently at the brightest part of the flame without making any movement of the eyes or blinking. This should be continued until the eyes are tired and begin to water. Then close your eyes and relax. Even after closing the eyes the after-image of the candle flame must be visualised till the image fades and goes out of consciousness. Then open the eyes and repeat the procedure for 10 to 15 minutes.

After consistent practise for a few months, one will find that many minor lights surround the flaming spot.

Efforts should be made to ensure there is no deflection from the central spot. One is said to have succeeded in the practise of Trataka only when one sees nothing but light in the direction in which one looks at.

Another form of this exercise is to concentrate and focus the eyes on the eyebrow centre. This is known as Shambhavi Mudra (Eyebrow Centre Gazing).

Trataka can also be practised on any object, such as a small dot on the wall, the nose tip, the statue of a saint, a cross or any other object of choice.

The eyes should not be strained too much. The duration of keeping the eyes open and gazing at the lit candle or any other object should be developed gradually over time.

Benefits of Blinkless Gazing (Trataka)

Strengthens muscles of the eyes and corrects defects like night blindness, headaches, short­sightedness, etc. Develops the power of concentration, calms the mind and removes stress and strain.

Further, it is therapeutic in poor concentration and memory, depression, insomnia and anxiety. It also results in one-pointedness of the mind and helps enhance willpower while improving memory and powers of concentration.