Trataka Dharana (Steady Gaze Concentration)

Trataka Dharana is a meditation practice of steady gazing at a single point to develop concentration and inner vision.

Overview

Trataka Dharana combines the practice of Trataka (steady gazing) with Dharana (concentration) to develop focused attention and access subtle states of consciousness. While trataka.md covers the basic practice of candle-gazing, this entry focuses on the meditative concentration aspect that uses the afterimage and inner visualization as objects of meditation.

Method/Content

The practitioner first performs Trataka by gazing at a candle flame, point of light, or other focused object for several minutes without blinking. After closing the eyes, the practitioner maintains concentration on the afterimage that appears in the inner visual field. As the afterimage fades, the practitioner may visualize the object in increasingly subtle forms—moving from the physical image to a mental image to pure light. The practice develops from external focus (bahya trataka) to internal focus (antar trataka), culminating in the ability to hold concentration on the chosen object without wavering.

Purpose/Benefits

Trataka Dharana develops powerful concentration (dharana), purifies the eyes and vision, and strengthens the ability to maintain single-pointed focus. It is believed to activate the ajna (third eye) chakra, enhance intuition, and open the perception of subtle realms. The practice is a preparatory technique for deeper meditation (dhyana) and is considered one of the shatkarma (purification practices) in Hatha Yoga.

Verification Notes

• Featured in Hatha Yoga Pradipika as one of the shatkarma
• Combined with dharana as a complete concentration practice
• Often used as a preparatory technique for more advanced meditation