Guest Author - Susan Kramer

Tratak, also called candle gazing, is a method of concentrating on a point of light; serving as a visual reminder to use lighthearted attitudes in living.

To begin:
In your meditation place, sit up straight facing a low table and light a candle. Fold your hands in your lap.

Take some moments to just look at the flame, letting your eyes almost shut. Begin to feel the warmth of light emanating from the candle flame. It can be a reminder that even a little kindness, from lighthearted actions, makes another's day warmer and brighter.

If you do close your eyes you will probably see the reverse color of the candle flame in your vision. Focus on that for a minute or as long as you can.

Now, begin to breathe evenly: breathe in counts 1, 2; breathe out counts 3, 4; breathe in counts 5, 6, and go on for another minute.

Let go of counting but continue to breathe evenly. Reflect on how you could add one form of lighthearted activity to your life, such as: showing patience; being kind; allowing another to express themselves without interruption; adopting an attitude of seeing a glass half full rather than half empty; doing a volunteer activity; helping a person in need.

Finish your meditation with a prayer or affirmations of well wishes for family, friends, community and world peace.

Take a deep breath, stand and stretch.

Lightened attitudes, actions,
Cause happy reactions.

Meditation Lessons - Introduction
Kundalini Meditation and Prayer
Yoga Meditation
Mandala or Yantra Meditation
Tantric Meditation
Kirtan - Chanting Meditation
Meditating for World Peace
Mantra or Om Meditation
Integral Yoga Hatha by Sri Sw. Satchidananda - A Book Review

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For offsite reading

Meditation for Teens and Adults
More than 70 offerings, from guided meditation techniques to on-the-go stress relief and relationship meditations interspersed with verse, and a section of special occasion prayers. 114 pages.

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Meditation for all Kids
Sitting, walking, dance and group circle meditations, along with positive affirmations, verses and benefits of meditation for kids of all ages and abilities in a 100 page book with illustrations.