Welcome to your practice.
Take a moment to settle into the space.
Set down any devices,
Silence any additional noise,
And create a sense of privacy for your meditation practice.
For this meditation,
You'll need a candle,
Preferably a tea light,
But any candle will do.
And you'll need something to light it with.
Before we begin,
Place your candle at eye level.
You can safely elevate it using a stack of books or yoga blocks.
That way the candle flame rests comfortably at eye level while you practice.
There's no right or wrong way to do this practice,
So be gentle with yourself and your thoughts as you prepare.
Once your candle is positioned,
Take a deep breath in.
Fully inviting yourself into the space you've created.
Allow yourself to merge with the atmosphere around you.
And exhale completely.
Now take your lighter or match and hold it in your hand.
Before lighting the candle,
Gently bring your awareness to the center of your forehead.
Take a full breath in.
And exhale.
Set the intention to transfer your inner light to the candle's wick and then ignite the flame.
Carefully light the candle and safely set aside your lighter or match.
Now settle into your seat.
Rest your eyes on the flame before you and take a moment to tune into your breathing.
Allow your inhales and exhales to become equal.
Perhaps to a count of four.
Inhale for four.
And exhale for four.
Now allow your eyes to gently rest on the edges of the flame.
Shining brightly enough to remain in your awareness even between blinks.
Observe the way it moves.
How gracefully it dances in place.
Watch the flickers of energy as you patiently gaze upon this small source of light.
Notice how this light,
Though small,
Is powerful enough to be seen from a distance.
Notice how effortlessly it takes up space.
Simply by being itself.
Now allow yourself to gently close your eyes and bring the palms of your hands over your closed eyes.
Let your hands offer your eyes a warm embrace as we bring this meditation practice to a close.
Take a moment to notice any sensations that are present.
Notice the quality of your breath.
The steadiness of your body.
And the atmosphere you've cultivated within and around you.
When you're ready,
Slowly release your hands and begin to invite your awareness back into the room.
