Trataka Kriya
Trataka Kriya (त्राटक क्रिया) is a yogic cleansing technique in which the eyes are opened wide and a candle flame or small object is gazed upon without blinking until tears flow. It is one of the six kriyas (shatkarma) described in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika for purifying the eyes and awakening the ajna chakra.
Overview
Trataka Kriya is distinguished from trataka meditation (which is a concentration practice) by its emphasis on the physical purification of the eyes. The practice involves sustained gazing without blinking, which stimulates the tear ducts and cleanses the ocular surface. It is described in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (2.31-2.35) and the Gheranda Samhita as one of the essential shatkarma. The practice is said to remove eye diseases, improve vision, and awaken the ajna chakra.
Method
The practitioner sits in a darkened room with a candle placed at eye level, approximately 2-3 feet away. The eyes are opened wide, and the gaze is fixed on the tip of the flame without blinking. The practitioner sustains the gaze until tears begin to flow, then closes the eyes and rests, visualizing the afterimage of the flame at the ajna (third eye) center. The practice is repeated 3-5 times, and is typically performed in the evening or at night.
Benefits and Purpose
Traditional texts claim Trataka Kriya:
- Purifies the eyes and removes eye diseases
- Improves vision and concentration
- Awakens the ajna (third eye) chakra
- Removes mental impurities and distractions
- Is one of the essential shatkarma practices
Verification Notes
- Described in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (2.31-2.35).
- Referenced in the Gheranda Samhita (1.53-1.54).
- Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).