Trataka - Yoga For Eyes

Introduction

Trataka is the process of cleansing the eyes and improving the vision.

In Patanjali's ashtanga yoga, the eight fold steps are -

• Yama

• Niyama

• Asana

• Pranayama

• Pratyahara

• Dharana

• Dhyana

• Samadhi

Trataka is in the category of Dharana, leads to higher concentration and calming down of the mind.

Types of Trataka

• Regular Trataka - with focusing of eyes on the hand and movement of hand

• Jyothi Trataka - focusing on a source of light

Jyothi Trataka preparations

Location - Calm place, with less lighting

Light source - A traditional lamp lit in Prayer room is a good source. Better to use Ghee instead of oil to light the lamp. Light the diya. ensure there is no air or wind to disturb this. keep the light at the level of eyes around 3 - 4 feet away from the eyes.

Picture: Light source used for Jyothi trataka

Benefits

Increased concentration

improvement in eye sight and correction of refraction errors

Upanishad insights

Chakshusopanishad - Upanishad for eyes

aradhya Deva : Lord Surya (Sun God)