Meditation can be made more accessible with a twist: Instead of closing your eyes, some practitioners find that keeping them open does the trick. This unorthodox approach has made many wonder why open-eyed Meditation can be more accessible than traditional methods. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of the topic, addressing your personal confusion of ” why does it happen that when I open my eyes in Meditation feels easier and effortless” and also the advantages of open-eyed Meditation and how it can help newer practitioners and those who struggle with established meditation methods. We hope to expand your understanding of what Meditation can offer through this unique perspective.
Benefits of open-eyed Meditation
- Open-eyed Meditation has numerous benefits that can improve your overall well-being.
- It can assist you in staying alert and focused throughout the day while enhancing your concentration and awareness of your surroundings.
- This practice can also enhance your clarity of thought, connect you with your inner self, and be a powerful tool for personal growth.
- Additionally, it can help you stay present and connected at the moment and become more aware of your thoughts and emotions.
- Finally, open-eyed Meditation can assist you in dealing with stress and anxiety, making it a valuable practice to incorporate into your routine.
What happens when I open my eyes in Meditation?
- Some people believe meditating with your eyes open is impossible because it may disrupt the focus required for Meditation.
- However, others find that by keeping their eyes open, they can better connect with their surroundings and maintain focus on their breath or mantra.
- Both approaches have their pros and cons. Individuals who opt to keep their eyes shut may discover that it is simpler to concentrate on their inner thoughts and emotions.
- In contrast, people who keep their eyes open may find it easier to remain aware of their surroundings.
- Ultimately, it is up to the individual to determine what works best for them. Some people choose to use one approach exclusively, while others prefer a different one.
How do you visualize with your eyes open?
To visualize with your eyes open during Meditation:
- To start, sit in a relaxed position with your spine upright.
- Kindly take a moment to focus on your breath, allowing your mind to become calm and centered.
- As you breathe in, visualize yourself taking in all the positive energy in your surroundings.
- And when you breathe out, release any stress or negativity you may be holding onto.
- Now, focus on an object directly in front of you, like a candle flame or a picture.
- Keep your gaze relaxed and soft without concentrating too hard on the thing.
- Or you can also think about a meaningful picture related to your goals or dreams.
- Relax your eyes and look down with half-open or fully-open eyelids.
- Visualize your ambition as if you are daydreaming. Create a narrative around the picture and your goal.
- Try looking at the picture only at the beginning of your session, then look at a blank wall or into the distance for the rest of the session.
- While taking deep and steady breaths, visualize the object growing more prominent, brighter, and more detailed.
- Use your imagination to add any colors, or some details may be unclear to you.
- Engage all of your senses – feel the warmth of the candle or imagine the sound of a waterfall in the picture.
- To fully benefit from the visualization, focus all your attention on it.
- If you get distracted by other thoughts or emotions, try to let them go and redirect your attention back to the visualization.
- As you continue to practice, you’ll find it easier to hold these visualizations in your mind even when your eyes are open.
- And remember to be kind and patient with yourself while enjoying the many benefits of this powerful meditation technique.
Spiritual Eye Meaning
The spiritual eye is not a physical part of the body but a visible beam of light. This light enters our body through the medulla oblongata at the base of the brain. Amazingly, the five-pointed star at the center of the eye is a gateway that connects the mind to the internal kingdom. Interestingly, the points of this star match the shape of the human body. Try spreading out your arms and legs to notice that your body takes on a star-like form. This shows that our bodies were designed based on the star shape of the spiritual eye. Beyond our physical bodies, we humans possess more complexities. We also have souls that were created in the image of God. This statement is not just a metaphor and is not limited to humans. The practice of Meditation allows one to access more profound levels of consciousness. Meditators can gaze into realms beyond the material world by focusing on a spiritual eye. This light can be seen behind closed eyes. This spiritual eye is a reflection of cosmic energy that enters and sustains the body.
Where Is the Spiritual Eye Located?
The third eye or sixth chakra, physically located in the brain just behind the point between the eyebrows, is commonly referenced in yoga classes. By focusing on this area during Meditation, one can elevate their awareness and experience a greater sense of enlightenment.
What Does the Spiritual Eye Look Like?
You can see a halo of glorious golden light enveloping a stark blue field from the perfect viewpoint. In the center of this scene is a luminous five-pointed star. From an imperfect perspective, the scene changes to a muted violet shade, in which the circle and star appear faint. During your Meditation, focus your focus on the star or center of the blue space. The golden aura will slowly extend and form a tunnel, which will bring you to the light of the astral reality. With time, the blue light will transform into a tunnel that guides you to the light of cosmic consciousness in the causal realm. Once you travel through the star at the core, you can surpass the boundaries of creation and explore the realm of the Spirit.
Spiritual Eye Meditation Technique
- Focus on the spot between your eyebrows to initiate the spiritual eye meditation technique.
- Imagine a tunnel made of golden light at that spot.
- Mentally step into that tunnel and feel the sense of joy and liberation surrounding you.
- As you move through the tunnel, let the light bathe you until all mundane thoughts vanish.
- After floating through the tunnel for as long as you desire, picture a curtain of deep violet-blue light in front of you.
- Enter this curtain to encounter another tunnel of glorious, violet-blue light.
- Allow the light to encircle you and slowly see the tunnel walls fade into blue light.
- Expand your mind into the boundlessness of freedom and ecstasy that the light offers you.
- The tunnel will dissipate, leaving just a panorama of blue bliss and infinity.
- Finally, visualize a shiny, five-pointed star of light before you.
- Clear your mind of any thoughts or emotions and surrender yourself to the happiness that lasts forever, like a star.
What Do I Do with My Eyes When I Meditate?
Meditating with closed eyes helps reduce distractions caused by what you see. Suppose you struggle to concentrate on your breathing or mantra while closing your eyes. Practicing Meditation with your eyes open may be beneficial. Though it might be challenging initially, it can provide multiple positive outcomes. This type of Meditation can enhance self-awareness and improve emotional well-being. In addition, it can develop your patience and understanding, fine-tune your stress management skills, heighten your present-moment awareness, help you feel calmer during stressful times, and promote creative thinking and imagination.
Tips on how to Meditate with Eyes Open
- Find a comfortable place to sit
To have a successful open-eyed meditation session, you must find a comfortable place to sit in and sit in a position that feels best for you, whether on the floor cross-legged with cushions or a chair.
- Ensure that your hips are grounded
If you decide to sit on the floor, imagine a kundalini energy ascending your spine towards the crown of your head. Ensure that your hips are grounded, and your spine is straight.
- Concentrate on the feeling of your breath to calm yourself
Set a five- or ten-minute timer, and try your best to remain relaxed and stable.
After completing the task, concentrate on the feeling of your breath to calm your thoughts and stay in the moment.
- Choose a specific point of concentration
For better focus during this practice, choose a specific point of concentration, like a mantra, your breath, or a mandala. Whenever your mind starts to wander, redirect your attention back to this point.
Four popular techniques for practicing Meditation with open eyes
- Mindfulness Meditation
To practice mindfulness during an open-eyed meditation it is essential to keep your attention on the present moment. Pay attention to your environment and your bodily sensations. Take a brief pause to focus on how your breath is moving in and out of your body simply. If your mind starts drifting away, kindly redirect your attention to the present moment. You can make use of the elements of nature around you to ground yourself while practicing open-eyed Meditation for mindfulness.
- Focus Meditation
Another method for practicing open-eye meditation could involve directing your focus on a specific object, such as a candle flame, a flower, or a picture. Ensure that you maintain a gentle gaze and avoid staring intensely at the object. It is natural to have wandering thoughts during the practice, but make sure to bring your attention back to the object and resume meditating.
- Visualization Meditation
Open-eyed Meditation is not only limited to clearing the mind. You can use visualization to help you reach your goals or intentions by focusing on an image that represents them. Doing so will enhance your willpower and stimulate your creativity, ultimately increasing your chances of success. To start:
Take a deep breath and allow your eyes to relax.
Once you’re in a comfortable position, open your eyes halfway or fully and gaze downwards.
Visualize your goal as though you’re daydreaming.
- Sound Meditation
During open-eyed Meditation, focusing on any particular element is unnecessary. Instead, you can choose to immerse yourself in the sounds around you. For example, when meditating in a room, you could listen to some meditation music and pay close attention to every instrument. To prevent daydreaming, it is recommended to steer clear of music that contains lyrics. Meditating in nature offers a different experience altogether – you can listen to the wind, birds, or people talking and let your mind be. No matter where or how you meditate, gently bring your focus back to the sounds surrounding you whenever your thoughts wander.
How to Rest with Your Eyes Open?
Beginning With a Simple Relaxation Meditation
Find a comfortable position. To start meditating, find a comfortable position that works for you. Whether it’s sitting up or lying down, make sure you feel comfortable. Remember to stay as still as possible during your practice. If you need some extra support, consider getting a travel pillow or a blanket to help make your meditation space as comfortable as possible.
Half close your eyes
To make your Meditation more successful, close your eyes halfway. This will help block out distractions and prevent your eyes from becoming sore or uncomfortable from being open for too long. To minimize distractions, concentrate your attention on a single object, such as a crack in the wall or a flower in a vase. Or, you can focus on your breathing, using “belly breathing” to relax your parasympathetic nervous system. With consistent practice, you will become more adept at reaching the desired state- where you don’t register the objects, noises, or smells around you. The first attempt at something may be challenging, but it’ll get easier with practice until it becomes effortless.
Clear your mind
To clear your mind, try not to focus on your worries, frustrations, or upcoming plans. Instead, gaze blankly at an object and let your thoughts drift away. When tackling this challenging task, it’s important to remember the value of focus and tranquility. If you find yourself getting distracted, redirect your attention to your breathing with a gentle touch. The act of being mindful during Meditation can aid in achieving a peaceful and transparent state of mind.
Try guided Imagery. Imagine yourself in a tranquil environment, like a deserted beach or mountain summit, where there is no movement. Notice every aspect of the scene: the sights, smells, and sounds. Soon, this peaceful scene will replace the busyness of the world, giving you a sense of relaxation and energy.
Concentrate on relaxing your muscles
A unique approach to Meditation for relaxation is muscle-focused. Start with your toes and observe any physical sensations they may have. Flex your toes for five seconds, then consciously release the tension. Continue to do this with every part of your body, giving extra attention to tense or tight spots until you reach your head. The goal is to ultimately have your entire body feel free of tension and securely relaxed. This type of Meditation is often recommended to help with feelings of anxiety or nervousness.
Exit your Meditation
To fully wake up after Meditation, it’s essential to gradually acknowledge outside stimuli, such as the wind in the trees or distant music. Once fully awake, take a moment to appreciate the peacefulness of the meditation experience before you start your day with renewed energy and determination.
Practicing the Two-Object Open Eye Meditation
Find a quiet setting
To perform this Meditation, find a quiet room or a peaceful spot outside. To begin, it’s crucial to find a comfortable position.
One possible choice is to adopt a seated cross-legged position on the floor. At the same time, you could opt to stay upright on a chair. Hold your hands loosely on your belly and relax your spine. Your head should be tilted down, and your eyes should be fixed two to three feet in front of you. Keep the lotus or half-lotus position and focus on your breath.
Pick objects to focus on
To effectively practice focusing on each eye, place each object in a specific eye’s field of vision. This means that one object will only be visible to your left eye and vice versa. While focusing on the objects, keep them stationary and at a slight angle greater than 45 degrees from your face. It’s essential to position the objects two or three feet away from you so that you can sit comfortably and assume a Zazen meditation position with your eyes half-open and your chin tucked in.
Focus on these two objects
Each eye is aware of the object within its own field of sight. Through practicing this, you will begin to feel deeply relaxed. Just like other meditation methods, patience is key. It may require multiple attempts before one can concentrate enough to quiet the mind and achieve a state of heightened relaxation without distractions.
Exit your Meditation
As you gradually return to full consciousness, take small steps to become more aware of your surroundings. Take notice of the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting from the other room and the ticking of a clock, among other things.
Pros and cons of open eyes meditation
| Parameter | Pros | Parameter | Cons |
| Better focus | With open eyes, you can focus on a specific spot or object, which can help improve your concentration and focus during Meditation. | Can cause eye strain | Open-eye meditation may require one to maintain their eyes open for a prolonged period. This can cause a strain on the eyes, leading to headaches and discomfort. |
| Reduced drowsiness | For some people, closing their eyes during Meditation can lead to drowsiness or even falling asleep. Open eyes meditation can reduce this effect, allowing you to stay alert and present throughout your practice. | Distractions | Since the eyes remain open, it is easier for external stimuli to distract you from achieving a state of mindfulness or relaxation. |
| Improved mindfulness | By staying present and aware of your surroundings during open eyes meditation, you can develop a more profound sense of mindfulness and connection to the present moment. | Not effective for beginners | Open eyes meditation can be challenging for beginners who need help concentrating because their focus keeps drifting. |
| Easier to integrate into daily life | With open-eyes meditation, you don’t need a quiet, dark space to practice. You can meditate anywhere, at any time, making it easier to integrate into your daily life. | Limited focus | Keeping your eyes open during Meditation can limit your field of vision, leading to less interaction between the mind and the senses. |
| Improved visualization | For those who have trouble visualizing during Meditation, open eyes meditation can provide a visual aid to focus on and enhance their visualization skills | Overwhelming for some | For some people, the sensory overload of keeping their eyes open during Meditation can be overwhelming, leading to negative emotions and a lack of meditation effectiveness. |
FAQ’s
Is it always necessary to close my eyes while meditating?
It is only sometimes necessary to close your eyes while meditating. While many people find it helpful to close their eyes to avoid distractions and focus on their meditation practice, it is not required. Some individuals opt to maintain their gaze open as a means to remain vigilant and grounded in the present moment without losing focus. Ultimately, deciding to close your eyes or keep them open while meditating is up to you and what works best for your practice.
Should I be excited about seeing a white light during Meditation?
When engaged in Meditation, it can be indicative of progress and a positive experience to witness a radiant white light. Some individuals believe that seeing a white light during Meditation could be a spiritual experience or a symbol of enlightenment. Some hold the belief that it might be due to pressure exerted on the optic nerve or other physiological factors. Ultimately, whether or not you should be excited about seeing a white light during Meditation depends on your own personal beliefs and experiences. To gain further insight into this phenomenon, it may prove beneficial to communicate with other experienced meditators or spiritual leaders.
Can open-eyes meditation improve my concentration?
Open-eye meditation can be a helpful tool to improve concentration. One way to keep your focus on something is to select a point in front of you. Keep your eyes open while focusing on this point. By doing this, you are able to block out distractions while maintaining an alert and attentive state. Studies have shown that regular open-eye meditation practice can improve concentration, focus, and overall cognitive function. If you want to raise your engagement and productivity, consider taking up open-eye meditation as part of your daily schedule.
How does open eyes meditation differ from closed eyes meditation?
Open-eyes and closed-eyes meditation have some notable differences. Closed-eye meditation is the more common practice. Meditation involves staying seated, closing your eyes, and concentrating on your breath or a particular object. With open-eyes meditation, the meditator focuses on a specific object or space in front of them with their eyes open. There are differences when it comes to external disturbances too. Closed eyes meditation allows the meditator to shut out external distractions, allowing them to focus internally and relax the mind. Open eyes meditation requires the meditator to remain aware of external stimuli, which can help them build concentration and alertness outside of Meditation. Both practices provide stress relief, anxiety management, and overall health benefits. However, open eyes meditation is helpful for those with difficulty focusing and staying present. In contrast, Meditation with closed eyes can bring peace and activate the parasympathetic nervous system.
What is the common misconception about open eyes Meditation?
The common misbelief about open-eyed Meditation is that it is essential to shut your eyes to obtain correct Meditation. While Meditation often involves closing one’s eyes, open-eyes meditation is a technique that requires keeping your eyes open and focusing on the environment around you; it is believed to help practitioners remain more present and aware, as it requires the individual to maintain a state of calm despite any external stimuli. This is in contrast to traditional meditation practices that involve closing the eyes to reduce external stimulation. Therefore, open eyes meditation is a viable alternative for people who find it challenging to maintain focus with their eyes closed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, practicing open eyes meditation can be a helpful tool in improving focus, reducing anxiety and stress, and improving overall well-being. When approaching the practice entirely, it is essential to have an open mind and willingness to immerse oneself in the experience. By consistently incorporating open eyes meditation into a daily routine, individuals may see improvements in their mental and emotional states.
