Sky gazing meditation is a form of mindfulness meditation that involves looking up at the sky in a relaxed and unfocused manner. It is a practice that is often associated with Tibetan Buddhism, but it can be used by anyone as a way to calm the mind, gain clarity, and develop a more spacious and open awareness.
Here's a detailed guide on how to do sky gazing meditation:
- Find a comfortable place: Choose a location where you have a clear view of the sky. This could be in your backyard, in a park, or even looking out of a window in your home. You should be able to sit comfortably and look upward without straining your neck.
- Choose the right time: The best time for sky gazing is either early in the morning or late in the evening when the sky is clear and the sun is not too bright. Avoid looking directly at the sun as it can harm your eyes.
- Get into a comfortable position: You can either sit on a chair or on the ground. Keep your back straight but relaxed. Rest your hands on your knees or in your lap.
- Begin gazing at the sky: Lift your gaze upward and look at the sky. Let your eyes relax and lose focus. Don't try to concentrate on anything specific in the sky, such as clouds or stars. The goal is to simply observe the sky without trying to interpret or analyze what you see.
- Breathe deeply and relax: As you gaze at the sky, take slow, deep breaths. Try to relax your body and quiet your mind. If thoughts come up, simply acknowledge them and let them go, bringing your attention back to the sky.
- Stay in the moment: Try to stay present and in the moment. Notice the colors of the sky, the feeling of the air, and the sounds around you. If your mind starts to wander, gently bring it back to the present moment and the sky.
- End your meditation: After about 15-20 minutes, or when you feel ready, slowly lower your gaze and come out of the meditation. Take a few moments to notice how you feel before getting up and going about your day.
Sky gazing meditation can be a powerful practice to help you feel more connected to the world around you, reduce stress, and increase your overall sense of well-being. As with any form of meditation, it may take some time to get used to it, so be patient with yourself and practice regularly.
“You are the sky. Everything else – it's just the weather.” - Pema Chodron