Trataka

Trāṭaka (Sanskrit n. त्राटक trāṭaka, tratak, trataka: 'to look, or to gaze') is the practice of staring at some external object. This fixed gazing is a method of meditation which involves concentrating on a single point such as a small object, black dot or candle flame. It is used in yoga as a way of developing concentration, strengthening the eyes, and stimulating the ājňā chakra.

In its first stage, the practitioner fixes his attention on a symbol or yantra, such as the Om symbol, a black dot, or the image of some deity, and stares at it, paying attention to each thought and feeling as it arises, and letting them go, so that the mind is completely absorbed in the symbol. The practice continues until the eyes begin to water, at which point they are closed, and relaxed.

The second stage is staring at a candle flame. The practice is the same up until the eyes begin to water, after which the eyes are closed, and the yogi tries to concentrate on the after image, and hold it for as long as possible. At first, it will be a real after-image, but later, it will exist only in the mind's eye, and the exercise in concentration comes from trying to maintain it there for a long period of time.

Trataka is supposedly the technique which sādhakas use to develop psychic powers. Tratak on one's own mirror image is considered to be extremely powerful, but without a guru's assistance it is said be dangerous to attempt. Occasionally tyros, misguided or under the influence of drugs, will attempt to look directly at the sun, with the foreseeable consequence of permanent central blindness.

As we are able to cease the restlessness of eyes seeking something or the other, by fixing its gaze, the restlessness of mind too comes to a halt. Trāṭaka is said to enhance the ability to concentrate. It may increase the power of memory and bring the mind in a state of awareness, attention and focus. This exercise acts on the centers olfactive and optical, it stimulates the nervous system. It is said to control of ciliary’s reflex and stimulate the pineal gland.