How to Develop Your Concentration Using the Candle Gaze Exercise

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Do this exercise in a dark

   The candle should be an even-burning dinner candle, placed approximately an arm's length in front of you.
   
   The flame should be level with your eyes so that you can hold your head steady and gaze straight ahead.
   
   To use reflected light, place the candle behind you so that you can see the reflection in a mirror directly in front of you, at proper height.
2. 2

   Step 2: quiet room.

   , If you blink very soon after beginning the gaze, ignore it and continue to gaze.Focus all your attention on the flame, ignoring all other thoughts, sensations, and feelings.
   
   Keep your gaze steady and unblinking. , Close your eyes and visualize the flame in the center of your mind as long as you comfortably can.
   
   The smaller, clearer and more defined the image of the flame, the better the training for concentration. , With practice, the image will become clearer and more defined.
   
   By internalizing the image, you change the exercise from a concentration exercise(external orientation) to a meditation exercise(internal orientation).
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   Step 3: Sit quietly

4. 4

   Step 4: and for a few moments close your eyes and focus on your breath to clear your mind and steady your concentration.

5. 5

   Step 5: Open your eyes and gaze without blinking at this steady flame(or reflection).

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   Step 6: When you blink

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   Step 7: or your eyes begin to water

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   Step 8: stop the external gaze.

9. 9

   Step 9: Don't worry if at first the image of the flame is undefined or vague.

Detailed Guide

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