Light a Candle
“Sometimes you will never know the value of something
until it becomes a memory.”
― Dr. Seuss
I am making lots of memories while I am away. Sometimes, I catch myself thinking, "I wish this moment would go on forever." But of course, that is not possible. We have learned from Stoicism and Mindfulness that neither good nor bad things last forever—seize the day!
But we have a special power: memory. In our mind, we cannot fail - unless with think so. Creating rituals around memories is something us humans have done forever. Sitting around the fire, telling stores, for example. You may not be in a position to invite your tribe to sit around a bonfire - but maybe you can light a candle.
The year 2024 is at its halfway mark, so maybe it is a good time to reflect on what old memories to cherish and what new memories are to make. I will surely light a candle one day for the lights and delights of Sicily!!
I read somewhere that candles symbolise the light of life.
Environmental psychology is researching the interaction between people and the spaces they inhabit. Lighting, colours, configuration, scale, proportions, acoustics, and materials address the senses of us humans and generate a spectrum of feelings and practices, influencing our sense of security, mood, and mental wellbeing.
The low light that comes from a candle is captured by your sight and sent straight to your brain for processing. Depending on our associations with candlelight, the body may move into a stage of relaxation. So if you have positive associations with candlelight, it will induce positive emotions. If you do not have positive associations with candlelight, you may want to stay away from them - or create some positive associations!
I have used candlelight to feel connected to people far away. For example when I could not attend a significant event abroad, but wanted to feel close anyway. I lit a candle, spent some time thinking about the people overseas - and sent them a photo of my candle. It did not take the longing to be with them away, but it certainly helped. It also had the nice side-effect, that I stopped doing whatever I was doing and took a moment for myself.
Candle gazing is mentioned as a healing practice in one of the oldest scripts about yoga practices, the Hatha Pradipika. Even the word "Pradipika" translates as “light", or “to illuminate. Trataka, or candle gazing is defined there as: “looking intently with an unwavering gaze at a small point until tears are shed.” This simple technique is said to have a purifying, invigorating effect on the mind, improves concentration, and when practiced properly, cleans and heals the eyes.
Even without a formal practice like trataka, why not use the magic of candlelight for whatever you want it to be?
What would you want to light a candle for?
Maybe you want to remember a special person or event.
Maybe you want to take some time to consider a new strategy you just learned.
Maybe you want to use the candlelight to help you meditate or calm your mind.
My invitation to you:
Create a moment of connection with candlelight
Which person would you like to feel closer to albeit physical or emotional distance?
What would you like to explore more in a special moment for yourself?
What memory would you like to make?
With light in my heart
Mel
