I’m looking at candles a lot lately. As I work through a year-long spiritual healing journey with the Mesachakuay, candle gazing meditations have become part of my new routine when the weather isn’t favorable to have a bonfire outside.
I simply focus on the dancing candle flame and relax.
If you find it difficult to sit still in silence with your eyes closed, consider candle gazing. This form of meditation gives you something to focus on, much like a guided visual meditation or a journey circle meditation.
Advanced Healing: My Journey with The Mesachakuay (Medicine Wheel)
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How to Do a Candle Gazing Meditation
Get cozy in a seated position. I’m usually on my yoga mat, sitting on a bolster or folded blanket for a little elevation and support. Then I place a small lit candle (one wick) directly in front of me. Sometimes I elevate the candle on a yoga block or hold the candle. Take a few deep breaths to start the relaxation process, then look at the candle.
As I watch the flame dance around and the wax melt, I notice all the usual swirling thoughts (What should I make for dinner? I wonder if they emailed me back? I need to remember to put a load of laundry in the washer.) start to get quiet. The goal: mental relaxation and clarity. When you’re not mentally immersed in the daily to-dos, your brain feels calmer.
I find that during candle gazing meditations, I get a moment of pause, and then often find the answer to something I’ve been thinking about. Or, I get an idea that is really helpful, such as a writing topic or how to move forward with a plan.
You can sit with the candle for a few minutes, or a few hours. It’s up to you! I find that 15 to 20 minutes is my happy place. I get relaxed, enjoy some insight and feel a calming reset.
What You Might Notice During a Candle Gazing Meditation
As I watch the flame, I start to notice the tiny details. I see the little red glowing ember at the tip of the wick. I see patterns in the yellow flame. And, as my gaze softens and my eyes grow heavy, I see rays of light beaming out from the candle. Some aim for my heart, while others extend outward into the room. Once, I saw a colorful rainbow at the top of multiple beams.
As I notice all these things, what I’m NOT doing is ruminating about the past or worrying about the future. I’m present in the moment. My central nervous system has a moment of rest. I’m not feeling anxious, nervous or worried. I’m just being.
Meditation is being present in the moment without judgment of the self or others.
When I meditate, the outside world fades away and I listen to my inner knowing. I connect with something greater than myself and gain insight. I often enjoy confidence, knowledge or confirmations.
Give Candle Gazing a Try
Whether you’re outside enjoying a bonfire, relaxing near a fireplace in your home, or you light a candle—you can also try candle gazing. I recommend setting a timer for five minutes for your first meditation. Gaze at the flame and gently notice what comes up for you. You can’t do this “wrong”.
Until next time,
Choose healthy!
Angela
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