List of Good Resolutions Made? If Not, You Still Have Time

If you have not yet made a list of good resolutions for the year, don’t worry—you still have time. And if you have, it’s time to make them come true with a new meditation technique called Trataka. This year is all about creation, abundance, and change!

With the arrival of the new year, it’s time to take a look at the resolutions you have made and make a plan to realize them. Often, we fall short of our resolutions because of a lack of focus and an overwhelming sense of anxiety and self-doubt. However, this year can be different with the practice of Trataka meditation, a technique that can help you find inner calm and focus your mind to achieve your goals.

What is Trataka meditation?

Trataka meditation is an ancient practice that involves gazing at a fixed point with a firm gaze until tears flow. This point can be a candle flame, the tip of your nose, a mark on the wall, or a star in the sky. The practice of Trataka meditation is mentioned in the ancient yogic text, The Hatha Yoga Pradipika, as a way to purify the body and calm the mind.

The origins of Trataka meditation

The first appearance of Trataka in sacred texts dates back to the 15th century and was mentioned as a practice to prepare the body for higher meditation. This practice goes against the trend of most meditation practices, which are conducted with closed eyes. Trataka meditation is based on the idea that gazing can be a powerful tool to cultivate clarity, improve focus, and eliminate distractions.

The different types of Trataka meditation

There are two ways to practice Trataka meditation—staring at an external object (Bahiranga Trataka) or visualizing a fixed point in your mind (Antaranga Trataka). Both forms of meditation have their own benefits and can help in improving concentration, memory, and overall mental health.

The benefits of Trataka meditation

Scientific studies have shown that Trataka meditation can help reduce anxiety, tension, and depression, decrease heart rate, and increase concentration and memory. It has also been found to strengthen eye muscles and improve vision, as well as alleviate the symptoms of insomnia and other mental health problems. Trataka meditation has also shown positive effects on the cognitive functions of the elderly after a month of daily practice.

How to practice Trataka: preparation

To practice Trataka meditation, find a quiet and comfortable place to sit. Place a candle at eye level and light it. Sit comfortably and gaze at the flame without blinking until tears flow. This practice can help you relax, concentrate, and find inner peace.