Trataka is a yogic purification and a tantric method, which requires staring at a single point. It can be a small object, a black dot, or even a candle flame. During this exercise, the eyeballs must remain steady and no blinking, of course.

There are two types of trataka, external and internal. If you are doing internal trataka, the eyes are closed and the mind concentrates on an inside element. Commonly focus on the area between your eyebrows.

In external trataka, your eyes are open and your mind is focusing on an actual object outside.

If you have a weak vision or mild eye problems do the method for 5 minutes every day. Additionally, it strengthens the muscles surrounding the eyes and helps to get rid of short-sightedness.

Here are a few trataka exercises to improve eyesight:

• Dot on a leaf

Take a palm-sized leaf, and draw a black dot on its center, with the size of a pea. Place the leaf on a wall or cardboard, and sit 2 feet away from it. Then, sit comfortably in a chair, and focus on the dot for 5-10 minutes, each morning.

• Candle flame

Light a candle in a dark room and stare at the flame for 5-10 minutes. Do this twice a day, and don’t skip days. The method is especially helpful for children with eye defects.

• Darkness

Turn off the lights again, and focus on the darkness for 5-10 minutes. Do this with your eyes open all the time.

• Blue sky

Sit in a quiet open place and gaze at the blue sky. This exercise will let you feel an instant connection with the sky.

• Crystal

If you happen to have a crystal, take it and place it 2 feet away from your eye level. The view of these powerful stones in gemology is believed to possess healing qualities.

• Needle

Keep a needle hanging on the wall. Make sure your peripheral vision is not obstructed by any other object. Focus on the needle, for 5 to 10 minutes.

• Photograph

Take a blank sheet and make a 2-inch hole in it. Then, place a small photo of God or a deity of your choice in the opening. Lastly, place the photo 2 feet away from you at your eye level height, and do the method.

• Flower

Choose a flower that’s half the size of your hand with dark color, and place it in a light spot. Focus on the flower for 5 to 10 minutes.