Meaning: Trataka is the process of looking at a fixed point with fullest concentration till tears comes to one’s eyes, so say the rishis.

There are many techniques to do Trataka and every one of them has different merits. In yoga literature, it is the process of fixing one’s full attention and eyes on the idol of one’s worship and devotion.

Technique: Sit in Padmasana, Siddhasana or Sukhasana according to your convenience. Hang a paper on a wall at a distance of six or seven feet, making a small black, round patch of the size of a 25 paisa coin or with the letter OM on the paper. Otherwise take a small earthen lamp using mustard oil or pure ghee in it and keep it in front of you. Place the lamp at such a place where its flame does not flicker due to wind. Concentrate on this lamp or black spot without blinking your eyes. When you feel a burning sensation in your eyes or tears start coming, close your eyes slowly. The eyes and attention should be fully fixed oil the object, only then is your Trataka successful. Gradually increase the duration of the Trataka. It can be practiced for hours together. You are not required to force your eyes to stretch them to the fullest extent they have only to be kept open in a natural way. The muscles around he eyes should not be stretched.

Advantages: All ailments of the eyes are cured by this. Laziness and indolence are removed. The mind gets the power of concentration. The Sadhaka gets firm determination by this process.

These six-fold yogic practices are the best means of purification of the body. One must learn them from a guru or some knowledgeable person, and should practice according to ones needs. These practices are beneficial both for the body and the mind, and increase their strength and capacity manifold.