RITUAL

yogi light^om Meditation and Concentration

Even though we normally meditate with our eyes closed to set a boundary between us and the outside world and to connect with our inner world, in this case, however, we gaze into the flame with our eyes open.

By directing our concentration onto the flame, our minds become focussed, which enables deep meditation.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR MEDITATION

Sit comfortably in the lotus position or in a kneeling pose (vajrasana), with a straight back. You can also practise this form of meditation sitting on a chair if you prefer.

Place your yogi light^om between one and three meters away from you, so that you can gaze slightly down on the flame. Breathe in calmly and deeply, and close your eyes.

You will also feel your thoughts calm down in the peace and quiet.

Now open your eyes and let your gaze wander up from the floor to the candle, until it is resting on the flame. Now gaze directly into the flame and try to keep your eyes open.

Gaze into the flame without blinking. Take in its appearance, its movement and changes. Appreciate its radiance, its different layers, shapes. and colours. Let yourself become familiar with it and feel how it diffuses light, heat and energy; and how you can absorb these forces into yourself and make them your own.

If your eyes begin to water, then let it happen. This cleansing effect will occur after a while and is intentional. If your eyes begin to burn in an uncomfortable way, don't force anything and close your eyes gently. Otherwise, gaze for as long as you can into the flame. After a while, you can close your eyes and enjoy the effects of what you now "see" with closed eyes.

As soon as the inner picture disappears, open your eyes again and repeat the process. Allow your gaze to soften completely as you look into the distance. Focus your attention on the Ajna Chakra, the "third eye", the point between your eyebrows. This chakra is associated with the pituitary gland in the brain. If it is activated, it promotes spirituality and humanity by harmonising the spiritual energies for self-actualisation, intellect and intuition.

The sound OM is designated to this chakra.

Remain in this sensation for as long as you see the picture and for as long as you feel at ease. You are focussed, relaxed, and completely at peace. Practise this form of meditation several times and enjoy the effect which boosts both concentration and relaxation at the same time.

Extinguish the flame of the candle once it has burnt down to the bottom.

You can make your yogi light^om an integral part of your yoga practice.

When astronauts look at the Earth from space, they often feel a deep spiritual connection with it; this feeling strikes them as both terrifying and wonderful at the same time.

It is like an epiphany, all of a sudden they realize that the universe, the earth and all people are inseparably connected.

It is a moment of transformation, of catharsis - it is an irreversible change in their perception.