As we enter the thick of the holiday season, feelings of both excitement and anxiousness emerge at the thought of a growing list of to-dos and a nonstop flow of social gatherings. And while the ebbs and flows of life are to blame, we tend to forget that a simple go-to for peace and quiet is sitting right in our homes.

For more than 5,000 years, candles have been used as a guide of light, literally and figuratively. They provided light after sundown, as well as helped to tell time. Candles have a particular force field to create an atmosphere of calmness and clarity.

Whether you are looking to enhance your meditating practices or are in need of a few minutes to disengage, here are five simple steps on how to meditate with a candlelight.

1.

Prepare the space in which you will meditate. Ensure your surrounding area is quiet, dimly lit and at a comfortable temperature.

2.

Position your candle at approximately 50cm away from eye level (or slightly below). Sit in an upright position that feels most natural to you, whether on a chair or on a floor cushion.

3.

Simple gaze at the flame and allow the flame to occupy your mind.
Note: Naturally, your eyes may begin to water.

4.

Imagine breathing in and out, the light of the candle. As you slowly fixate more of your attention to the flame, you’ll find yourself getting into a state of concentration and peace, with nothing but the flame in sight.

5.

Finish your meditation with your eyes closed for five minutes while allowing your body and mind to welcome a sense of clarity and purification.