Candlelight Meditation
Candle gazing is a meditation technique in which you focus your senses on the flame of a candle. Watching the flame flicker, change shape, display different colors, and produce a halo will bring clarity to the mind and promote a sense of serenity. It's the perfect antidote for anyone who spends too much time glued to a screen.
Candlelight Meditation May...
Enhance your focus and sharpen your mind by offering a single, captivating focal point. Concentrating on the gentle dance of the flame encourages the mind to remain present, reducing distractions and improving focus.
Reduce stress because the soothing ambiance created by candlelight induces a calming effect on the nervous system. As your mind centers on the steady flame, stress and anxiety levels tend to decrease, leading to a sense of inner calm.
The soft, warm glow of a candle can naturally induce relaxation. As practitioners engage in candlelight meditation, they often experience a profound release of tension and an overall sense of tranquility.
Observing the intricacies of a candle flame demands mindfulness and heightened awareness.
Candlelight has been historically associated with spirituality and ritual. Candlelight meditation can help you feel more connected to your inner self, higher consciousness, or spiritual beliefs.
Selecting Your Candle
When candle gazing you are focusing on the flame and not so much on the actual candle, so in most cases, any candle will do. There are however a few factors that could influence your choice of candle.
Material
According to The Filtery, a website on reducing toxicity in the home, the vast majority of candles are made with paraffin wax. The main advantage of paraffin wax is that it’s cheap and easily available. The problem is that they typically contain chemicals such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene. These chemicals are known to cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, fatigue, and eye, nose, and throat and lung irritation, and other symptoms.
When I started candle gazing I used a cheap batch of candles I bought at the nearest convenience store. Since I’m short sighted, I sit pretty close to the candles and I immediately noticed a slightly noxious odor in the air.
Coconut and soy wax are both good options. They burn cleaner, so there is less soot. The only problem with soy and coconut wax candles is that they are commonly mixed with other types of wax to provide more stability, so it’s difficult to find 100% pure wax candles.
Beeswax candles burn the cleanest, longest, and brightest. According to The Filtery burning beeswax clears the air of pollutants and bad odors. The way it works is the negative ions in the beeswax attach to positive ions of dust, mold, odors, and pollen in the air.
I decided to splash out and buy a box of pure beeswax candles. Where I live they are quite pricy but they were well worth the price.
Scented or unscented
Scented candles can add an additional sensory dimension to your meditation practice. Lavender, chamomile, or sandalwood scents are often chosen for their calming properties. However, some practitioners prefer unscented candles to avoid distractions and to keep the focus solely on the flame.
Candle wick size
The size of the wick can influence the intensity of the flame. A thicker wick may produce a brighter and more prominent flame, while a thinner wick might create a gentler and softer flame. Experiment with different wick sizes to find the one that suits your practice best.
Candle size and shape
The size and shape of the candle can also impact the visual experience during Trataka. Some practitioners prefer larger candles with a longer burn time, while others may opt for smaller tea lights for shorter meditation sessions. I sometimes use tiny birthday candles because their burn time is about 10 minutes. Perfect for candle gazing.
Candle color
The color of the candle doesn’t matter much for most people because during the meditation they focus on the flame and not on the candle stick. That said, many people find that a candle of a specific color can increase the effectiveness of their meditation.
White: purity, clarity, innocence, simplicity
Gold: prosperity, wealth, spirituality
Violet: reverence, higher consciousness
Indigo: imagination, insight, wisdom, clarity
Blue: creativity, self expression, communication
Turquoise: independence, protection, healing
Green: inspiration, hope, love, freedom, healing
Yellow: ambition, confidence, courage, generosity
Orange: sensuality, friendship, optimism, happiness
Red: courage, strength, vitality, family
Pink: empathy, loyalty
How to do a candlelight meditation
Find a Calm Environment: Choose a quiet and dimly lit space for your meditation practice. This will help minimize distractions and enhance the impact of the candlelight.
Set up the Candle: Place a candle at eye level, roughly 2 to 3 feet away from where you'll be seated. Ensure the candle is secure and on a non-flammable surface.
Assume a Comfortable Posture: Sit in a cross-legged position or on a chair with your spine straight and shoulders relaxed. Rest your hands on your knees or in your lap.
Light the Candle: light the candle, and take a moment to observe the process of illumination.
Focus on the Flame: Fix your gaze on the candle flame, allowing it to become the sole object of your attention. Let your mind gently rest on the movement and patterns of the flame. As you gaze at the flame, thoughts will come into your mind. Simply let them to float out of your mind like passing clouds. It takes time for the mind to quieten so if thoughts are there don’t try pushing them away. Don’t resist your thoughts, just pay them no attention, and they will pass.
Closing the Practice: When you are ready to conclude the meditation, close your eyes for a few moments, and take a few deep breaths. Express gratitude for the experience and slowly transition back into your daily activities.
Unique characteristics of candlelight meditation
Symbolism: The flame symbolizes enlightenment, spiritual transformation, and the eternal nature of the soul. Its constant movement reflects the impermanence of life and the importance of living in the present moment.
Ambiance: The soft, warm glow of the candle creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making the meditation space more conducive to relaxation and introspection.
Sense of Ritual: Lighting a candle and engaging in this form of meditation can imbue the practice with a sense of sacredness and ritual, adding depth and meaning to the experience.
Pratyahara Practice: Candlelight meditation can serve as an excellent gateway to pratyahara, the withdrawal of the senses. By focusing solely on the candle flame, practitioners learn to detach from external stimuli and turn their attention inward.
Tips for candle gazing meditation
Start with 5 minutes a day, and gradually work up to 10 minutes a day.
It is better to practice this meditation on an empty stomach, either early in the morning or in the evening before bed.
Try the mediation with a soothing classic music.
Choose a candle holder or stand that keeps the candle stable and secure during the meditation. A holder that elevates the candle to eye level will make it easier to maintain the gaze.
Alternatives
to candle gazing
If for some reason you don’t have access to a candle or prefer not to use a candle, then there are several alternative objects you can use:
Flower Gazing
Choose a fresh flower, such as a daisy or a rose, and place it at eye level. Focus your gaze on the intricate details of the flower, its colors, and its fragrance. Notice the delicate petals, the way they are arranged, and the subtle variations in hue. Let the beauty of the flower draw you into a state of calm and relaxation.
Water Gazing: Find a bowl of still water or a small water fountain. Gaze at the water's surface and observe the reflections, ripples, and movement. Pay attention to how the light plays on the surface, creating patterns and shadows. Allow the gentle motion of the water to quiet your mind and bring you into a peaceful state.
Crystal or Gemstone Gazing: Select a crystal or gemstone with interesting patterns or colors. Hold it at eye level and concentrate on its unique features. Examine the facets, the way light refracts through it, and any inclusions or imperfections. Let the crystal's natural beauty and energy draw your focus and help you center your thoughts.
Moon Gazing: This is best done during a clear night when the moon is visible. Gaze at the moon and allow its calming presence to soothe your mind. Observe its phases, the surface details like craters and shadows, and the soft glow it casts. Embrace the stillness of the night and the sense of connection to the cosmos.
Fire Gazing
If you have access to a safe outdoor space, you can perform fire gazing by focusing on a bonfire, campfire, or even a small candle-like flame in a controlled environment. Watch the dance of the flames, the changing colors, and the sparks that fly. Feel the warmth and listen to the crackling sounds as you immerse yourself in the experience.
Mandala Gazing
Use a printed or drawn mandala placed at eye level. Focus on the intricate patterns and symmetrical designs. Follow the lines and shapes with your eyes, moving from the outer edges to the center and back. Let the repetitive and balanced nature of the mandala guide you into a meditative state.
Sunrise or Sunset Gazing
Find a comfortable spot to witness the beauty of a sunrise or sunset. Let the changing colors and tranquility of the moment guide your meditation. Watch as the sky transforms with hues of pink, orange, and purple, and feel the gentle transition between day and night. Allow this natural spectacle to inspire a sense of wonder and peace. Precautions: Never stare directly at the sun, as it can cause serious eye damage. Always gaze at the surrounding colors and the horizon rather than the sun itself. Using protective eyewear designed for sun viewing, like eclipse glasses, can also be beneficial for added safety.
Image Gazing
Choose a picture or painting that holds personal significance or resonates with you emotionally. Place it at eye level and allow your mind to immerse in the image. Study the details, colors, and composition, and reflect on the feelings or memories it evokes. Use this emotional connection to deepen your meditative practice.
Rites and celebrations
In the book By Candlelight: Rites for Celebration, Blessing & Prayer, Janina Renee writes that certain routines of everyday and household life can be elevated to ritual, enhancing our sense of security and continuity. She explains that rituals also enable us to shift mental gears, and enjoy a change of pace.
She introduces 87 different candle rituals that range from burning away anger, to reducing stress, to praying for world peace. Here is a shortened version of a ritual from her book.
Blessing Your Space
Lighting a candle at home can provide ambience, and serenity, and a sense of safety to your home. You can also burn a candle after or in anticipation of an unpleasant experience, a quarrel, or a visit from a negative person. This is an ideal blessing to perform when moving into a new home. You can amplify this rite by repeating it in every room, with a candle for every room.
Find a comfortable place to sit, calm your mind and light a candle. Then say:
I dedicate this candle
as a blessing for this space.
Let its light and warmth
extend to every corner of this place.
Gaze at the candle flame and visualize its light expanding outward to warm and bless the room or house you are in. Then say:
Everyone who enters here,
may their hearts be light,
may their minds be clear,
and their spirits uplifted.
Visualize the light from the candle completely filling the space and creating an atmosphere of protection. Image any negativity in your space as a mist that is easily being dissolved into nothingness by the force of the expanding light. Then say:
This is a protected space.
All negative energies come here,
are diffused, purified,
and transformed into wholesome energy.
End the rite by saying:
So it is, and so shall it be!
Know that you can leave the candle burning or extinguish it if you wish, but the atmosphere of light will remain in place.
Trataka meditation
Differences between Western meditation and Trataka
Western candle gazing and Trataka are both forms of meditation that involve focusing on a candle flame, but they originate from different cultural and spiritual traditions, which results in some variations in their practice and purpose. Here are the key differences between the two:
Purpose: Western candle gazing is often associated with spiritual exploration and self-discovery. Trataka is primarily practiced to enhance concentration and still the mind.
Technique: In Western candle gazing, practitioners may use a variety of techniques while trataka follows a specific technique in which the practitioner fixes the gaze on the candle flame, and maintains a steady gaze without blinking.
Spiritual Beliefs: In some Western traditions, candle gazing is associated with spiritual or metaphysical practices, and it may be seen as a way to connect with higher realms or spiritual guides. Trataka is a yogic practice rooted in the philosophy of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. It is considered a purification technique that prepares the mind for deeper states of meditation and spiritual realization.
How to practice Trataka
Trataka is a simple yet powerful yogic technique of candle gazing. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to perform Trataka:
Preparation:
Choose a Suitable Candle: Select a small, unscented candle with a steady flame. Place the candle at eye level, around 2 to 3 feet away from where you'll be seated.
Find a Quiet Space: Practice Trataka in a calm and dimly lit room where you won't be disturbed during the meditation.
Sit Comfortably: Assume a comfortable meditation posture. You can sit cross-legged on the floor or on a chair with your spine straight and shoulders relaxed.
Take off your glasses and remove your contact lenses
One of the great benefits of tratak is that it trains your eyes. To get this effect, remove your glasses or lenses. If you keep your glasses on, your eyes don’t get the training they could. With contact lenses, it is worse still. The fixing of the gaze will likely be uncomfortable.
So unless you have a severe eye correction, keep your visual aids off.
The Practice
Gaze at the Flame: Light the candle and fix your gaze on the flame. Keep your eyes open and maintain a soft, steady gaze without blinking. Try to focus on the flame's tip, where it appears most distinct.
Relax and Breathe: Take a few deep breaths to relax your body and mind. Allow any tension or stress to dissolve as you continue to gaze at the flame.
Maintain Focus: Keep your attention on the flame without allowing your mind to wander. If thoughts arise, gently bring your focus back to the flame without judgment.
No Straining: Your gaze should be relaxed; do not strain your eyes. If you feel your eyes becoming tired or watery, take a short break and then resume the practice.
Blink Naturally: Allow yourself to blink naturally when necessary. The goal is not to avoid blinking altogether, but to minimize unnecessary blinking and maintain concentration on the flame.
Continue for a Set Time: Start with a few minutes and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable with the practice. You can set a timer or use soft chimes to signal the end of the meditation.
Closing the Practice: When you're ready to finish, gently close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Retain the image of the flame in your mind's eye for a moment before opening your eyes.
Reflection: Take a moment to reflect on your experience and any insights or feelings that arose during the meditation.
Tips for Trataka Practice
It's essential to practice Trataka with a relaxed and focused mind. Avoid approaching it with a goal-oriented or forceful attitude.
Trataka can be performed as a standalone meditation or as a preparatory practice before other forms of meditation.
Regular practice is key to experiencing the full benefits of Trataka. Aim to practice consistently, but without becoming overly rigid in your approach.
Be patient with yourself. As with any meditation practice, the mind may wander initially. With time and persistence, your concentration will improve.
My 10-day experience
Candle 1
My first candle meditation was very eye opening. In my daily life I spend a lot of time looking at screens. Looking at the light of a screen and the light of a candle puts you in a very different state of mind. screen mode
Candle 2
I used a paraffin wax candle in a small space. When the candle burned out I realized I was sitting in a cloud of toxic fumes. Decided to throw away all the paraffin candles and replace them with beeswax candles.
Candle 3
A beautiful box of beeswax candles arrived. My main focus was sensing the difference between paraffin and beeswax. Although the beeswax candles were 5 times more expensive than the paraffin I'm glad I bought them. I sniffed them often and didn't sense any toxicity in the air. I'd read that burning beeswax can clear the air but I didn't get a sense of that.
Candle 4
So far I've done candle gazing in the evenings. Decided to try it in daylight. Mainly, I wanted to do it while my dog was in the room and see how she would react. She sniffed the candle but lost interest in it. I found that there is no differ between starting at a candle in the light or in the dark. I prefer the ambience and atmosphere of candle gazing in the evening though. It feels more romantic.
Candle 5
With all the technical details out of the way I wanted to focus on deepening my ability to concentrate. I guess I had a lot on my mind so my mind kept on wondering. Every time it did I’d say “candle” to myself and refocus on the candle. I must have said, “candle” about a hundred times. In the 15-minute meditation I managed on period of about 3 seconds of pure concentration. This might not seem like much but those 3 seconds were pure bliss so I consider that session a success.
The feeling was as if falling into the candle light. Letting go of worries.
Candle 6
Today, I was a bit exhausted and couldn't keep my eyes open so I ended the session and drank a glass of wine instead.
Candle 7
Overall my concentration was much better. My worries and concerns about the outside world seemed less present and less intrusive. I found myself deeply adsorbed in the candle flame. Questions about the nature of flame drifted into my mind. I wondered about the chemistry of fire and it occurred to me how delicate and fragile a candle flame really is.
Goethe, age 38
painted by Angela Kauffman
Wikimedia commons
Candle 8
Because of last night’s wondering about the nature of the wax, wick, and flame, I decided to experiment with a Goethean approach to candle gazing.
Goethean observation, also known as Goethean science or phenomenology, refers to a method of scientific and artistic observation developed by the German polymath Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832). This approach emphasizes a holistic and qualitative way of observing and understanding natural phenomena, in contrast to the reductionist and quantitative methods that were becoming more prevalent during Goethe's time.
Goethean observation encourages individuals to perceive and study natural objects or phenomena as interconnected wholes rather than isolating and analyzing individual parts. It strongly emphasizes direct sensory experience and careful, patient observation. This involves detailed and prolonged engagement with the subject of study, allowing for a deeper understanding of its inherent qualities. Instead of reducing observations to quantitative measurements and numerical data, Goethean observation focuses on qualitative descriptions that capture the unique characteristics, forms, and qualities of the subject. This can include descriptions of color, shape, texture, and other perceptual attributes.
How to do Goethean observation
Choose an object or phenomenon that you wish to observe and study. Approach your subject with an open and receptive mindset. Approach it as if encountering it for the first time.
Direct Observation: Spend a considerable amount of time observing the subject directly. Take your time to look closely, paying attention to details that might often go unnoticed. Use all your senses. Observe not only with your eyes but also with your sense of touch, smell, and even hearing.
Sketching and Describing: Create sketches or drawings of the subject. Sketching helps you to focus on essential details and forms. Write down detailed, qualitative descriptions of what you observe.
Change of Perspective: Observe the subject from various angles and distances. Walk around it, get up close, and step back to see how the perspective changes. Note how the subject interacts with its surroundings. Observe its relationships with other elements in the environment.
Engage Intuitively: Allow yourself to develop a personal connection or relationship with the subject. Tune into your intuition and emotional responses.
Try to sense the subject's inner qualities or essence beyond its physical appearance.
Reflection and Synthesis:
Reflect on your observations and insights. Consider the patterns, connections, and meanings from your study.
Share your findings with others and engage in discussions to gain new perspectives and insights.
Goethe's color wheel via Wikimedia Commons
Candle 9
Yesterday I tried a Goethean approach to candle gazing and really enjoyed it. Today I thought I'd take it a step further and apply Goethe's Color theory to candled gazing.
I’m Dr. Rodger Douglas, DMH, a South African-born homeopath now based in Osaka, Japan. With a psychology degree from Nelson Mandela University and a diploma from the Hahnemann College of Heilkunst, I specialize in holistic care for fibromyalgia. I serve clients by phone or video across the US, Canada, the UK, and Europe.