A candle gazing meditation is an ancient, healing practice.

If you struggle to keep your mind from wandering in traditional meditation, this ancient practice is for you. Called Trataka in traditional mindfulness, candle gazing is a form of mental and spiritual purification. Just like the name sounds, it entails using a fixed gaze on a small candle as a way to root yourself in the present moment.

The yogis believe that Trataka is a practice that will improve your clarity of the mind and promote inner peace. Some even say it can help to improve eyesight.

In the practice included below, I will guide you through a mindfulness experience with a candle gazing meditation. You will need a lit candle to get started (I recommend Mrs. Meyer’s soy Candles from Grove Co!) Or, you can use the image of the candle in the video.

Meditation for Beginners

If you’re totally new to meditation – that’s great! I’m so excited you’re here. It’s really not hard, and you don’t have to worry about trying to do it “right.” The best advice I can give for beginners is to just let go. As you follow my instructions in the recording don’t worry too much about how or if you’re doing it right, instead just let whatever happens, happen. 

If you lose track of the meditation and your thoughts take over you, that’s ok. Just come back to the recording whenever you notice your attention has drifted. Be kind to yourself, and simply come back to the practice. 

For your meditation, set yourself up in a position that feels comfortable. You could be seated on the floor, in a chair, or even lying down. Make sure you’re comfortable, but also that you can still remain alert. The meditation included below is best enjoyed with headphones so that you can remain undistracted and fully immersed in your meditative experience.

After you’re finished with your meditation, allow yourself to return to your daily activities slowly and with intention. Remember that with ritual practices, there is no right or wrong. It’s all about what feels best to you and what’s going to help you feel most nurtured.

Candle Gazing Meditation for Spiritual Cleansing