Understand
What Is Trataka (Candle Gazing)?
Trataka is an ancient yogic practice of steady gazing at a single object — often a candle flame — to concentrate and calm the mind.
Trataka means 'steady gazing'. It is a traditional yogic concentration practice in which you rest your gaze softly on a single point — classically a candle flame, but it can be any object — to gather scattered attention and settle the mind. It is often used as a doorway into meditation.
The whole subject of yoga deals with the mind, and Trataka is one of its most direct tools. The word means 'steady' or 'concentrated gazing'. You choose a single object — a candle flame is the classic choice, but it could be a dot, a crystal, or a symbol — and rest your gaze on it, letting the attention gather to that one point.
By holding a soft, steady gaze and then, in many versions, closing the eyes to hold the after-image inwardly, Trataka trains concentration and quietens mental chatter. Because it settles and focuses the mind so effectively, it is traditionally used as a preparation for meditation. Keep sessions comfortable, blink when you need to, and rest the eyes afterward.
Frequently asked questions
- What do you gaze at in Trataka?
- Traditionally a candle flame, but it can be any single object — a dot on the wall, a crystal, or a symbol. The point is to rest the gaze steadily on one thing to gather your attention.
- Is candle gazing safe for the eyes?
- Practised gently it's generally fine — keep the flame at a comfortable distance, blink when you need to, and rest the eyes afterward. If you have an eye condition, check with your doctor first.