What is the ancient practice of Tratak?

She listed the “indicators from the body telling us that it needs extra attention in the form of”

Anjanam: Herbal kohl to improve blood circulation to the eyes and remove excess secretions

Tratak: By gazing at a faraway point for a long period, the eye muscles get strengthened thereby helping in better vision adjustment by the eye lens.

How does the practice help?

Calling it a yogic practice, fitness expert Garima Goyal said that the term ‘tratak’ itself translates to “gazing” or “staring” in Sanskrit. “This meditative technique involves concentrated and prolonged gazing at a single point or object, often a candle flame, a specific symbol, or even a black dot on a white surface,” said Goyal.

The primary purpose of tratak kriya is to enhance concentration, focus, and mental clarity. “The sustained gaze is believed to quiet the mind, leading to a state of heightened awareness and inner stillness. Additionally, practitioners assert that Tratak can have positive effects on eyesight and contribute to overall eye health,” mentioned Goyal.

How to do it?

To embark on a Tratak session, one typically selects a quiet and dimly lit space to minimise distractions. “The chosen object is placed at eye level, and the individual sits comfortably in a steady posture. The practice begins with a few moments of deep breathing to relax the body and mind. Once settled, the practitioner directs their gaze to the chosen focal point,” said Goyal.

According to Goyal, the candle flame is a popular choice for Tratak due to its subtle and captivating nature. “The flickering flame demands unwavering attention, and as the practitioner continues to gaze, the eyes may water initially. Over time, this discomfort tends to subside as the eyes adjust to the intensity of the focus,” said Goyal.

Goyal further expressed that as the individual maintains the gaze, the mind is encouraged to let go of external thoughts and distractions.

“The objective is to cultivate a state of internal absorption, where the awareness is solely centered on the chosen point. This practice is not just about the eyes; it’s a holistic approach that involves the synchronisation of breath, body, and mind,” said Goyal.

Beyond the physical benefits, tratak kriya delves into the realms of meditation and mindfulness (Source: Freepik)

How long to do it for?

Tratak Kriya is not limited to a specific duration; practitioners may engage in the practice for several minutes to an hour, depending on their level of comfort and experience. Consistency is key, and regular practice is thought to yield more profound effects.

 

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What to be cautious about?

From a physiological perspective, sustained gazing is believed to have positive impacts on eye health. “The eye muscles are exercised, and the increased blood flow to the ocular region is thought to rejuvenate the eyes. However, it’s essential to approach tratak with caution, especially for individuals with pre-existing eye conditions. Consultation with a healthcare professional is advisable before incorporating such practices into one’s routine,” said Goyal.

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