I was meditating for first time with my eyes open. I had crystal and candle. I stared at candle for awhile then it started to get black in my eyes like closing in, and then there would be this bright white light flickering on and off. I just wanted to know if I was going nuts or if it meant something?
—Mindy, United States
Dear Mindy,
I think you might have been seeing an afterimage. You may wonder: why do I see afterimages?
It is a phenomenon of our visual system. It occurs when we stare at something, especially something very brightly lit, and then close our eyes. The afterimage may be a positive one, corresponding in color or brightness to the original image, or negative, being less bright or of colors complementary to the original. A common afterimage is the spot of light one sees after a camera flash has been fired. I do not think this is anything to worry about.
Would you like to learn more about meditation? You have the opportunity to sign up for a free 5-day Mini Meditation course or you can take our in-depth ten-week online meditation course.
Many blessings,
Nayaswami Mukti
Ananda Course in Meditation
A 10-week online course with in-depth instruction in scientific meditation techniques that bring more peace, deeper relaxation, and focused concentration to every area of your life.
Learn more