Meditation comes with a lot of benefits. But should you meditate in the light or dark?
Ideally, you should meditate the way that feels best for you, it depends on what works and what doesn’t. If you prefer to meditate in a light rather than a dark one then carry on doing that, and vice versa.
However, research does say that meditating in a dark room is better for you than in a room that is lit up.
So should you meditate in the light or dark? In this article, we will compare the two by the advantages and disadvantages.
Benefits of meditating in the light
Meditating in the light can be good for you. It might not have as many advantages as meditating in the dark but it is still effective. For meditation benefits, feel free to read here.
Meditating in the light can make you feel safer. Some people are scared of the dark and can find it uncomfortable. So if you meditate in the light, you’ll likely feel more comfortable and at ease.
Many say that you will learn to not focus on anything if you keep your eyes open and eventually when you reach the meditation state whatever is in front of you will vanish.
Although meditating in the light can cause distractions. Once you can meditate properly with the light on, your body is capable of meditating anywhere and in any light. This is because your body has defocused and conquered the distractions.
Disadvantages of meditating in the light
Unfortunately meditating in the light can cause distraction because the light penetrates through the eyelids.
Some people find that when they meditate in the light, they feel agitated, compared to if they meditate in the dark.
Advantages of meditating in the dark
Meditating in the dark can do some amazing things for the body.
Some of these include: Reduce headaches, ease any tension (this is because of the pineal and pituitary glands.)
People tend to meditate in the dark because of ancient times. Monks and Buddhists were known to meditate in the dark of the night. The reason being for this is because there is no noise and nothing to distract them.
It also is a fact, that thousands of years ago when monks would meditate they would do it in total darkness. Also, the reason being for this is because they believed they would acquire clarity and wisdom.
Disadvantages of meditating in the dark
Despite research proving that meditating in the dark is the better one out of light and dark, it does still have its disadvantages.
It can cause you to feel sleepy and you could potentially fall asleep when you’re trying to meditate.
Depending on whether you believe in the spirit world or not, some people say that meditating in the dark can cause evil spirits to come forward (these are usually an illusion of the mind.).
But for those who do fear evil spirits, this can be quite distressing for them. If this does occur, it might be a better idea to meditate in the light until you can surmount this fear.
Sadly, meditating in the dark can potentially bring forward any underlying fears or insecurities you might have. These can be overcome and controlled by focusing on your breathing.
So should you meditate in the light or dark?
You should meditate in the dark if you want to listen to researchers’ advice. It offers more advantages and fewer disadvantages than meditating in the light does.
If you have been meditating in the light, then you are likely used to it, and changing your routine might not work for you. However, if you are new to meditation then we suggest that you should first attempt to meditate in the dark.
Other types of light meditation
Light and dark aren’t the only type of light which you can meditate in, there are many different lights which contribute to a healthy meditation session.
Should you meditate in the light or dark is the question we are thinking of.
We all want to get the most out of a meditation session. It might be worth considering other types of lights to meditate in don’t you think?
Himalayan salt lamp meditation
The Himalayan salt lamp helps to create a soothing atmosphere that contributes to relaxing and rejuvenating the body.
The Himalayan salt lamp projects an orange glow. This glow is brilliant for reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
The orange glow the Himalayan lamp emits might be beneficial for your body, but it also has its disadvantages. The lighting can cause you to feel a little too relaxed and sleepy which isn’t the best for meditation.
Candle light meditation
A candle light can work for meditation; it gives you a focal point. If you put yourself into a comfortable position whilst focusing only on the flame you can let it occupy your mind.
You might find that your eyes are watery to begin with, but after a while, the flame should absorb you and your mind. Eventually, you should find yourself in a state of concentration and peace.
Moonlight meditation
Some people choose to meditate under a full moon. Many people believe that when the moon is full the light takes control of your body due to the energy it holds.
It is believed that moonlight meditation helps to transcend the mind and experience divinity within.
It is the perfect time to release any negative energy that has been impacting you. You can connect with yourself deeply.
Unfortunately, there is only an average of 13 full moons per year which means it is not something that can often be done.
If you are looking to meditate regularly, you could potentially find a moonlight lamp or try a different meditation light.
Conclusion
Research advises that meditating in the dark is better for the body because of the benefits it has to offer in comparison to the benefits that meditating in the light gives.
At the end of the day, it is down to what works best for you. Perhaps try different types of light and see what suits you.
As I previously said it is completely down to personal preference. If you enjoy meditating in the light and find it does not distract you then carry on with what your body is used to.
So after reading this article, seeing the good and bad points of each, have you answered the question, should you meditate in the light or dark?
