Hey there! Ever tried looking up at the sky and just letting your mind relax? That’s what Sky Gazing Meditation is all about. It’s a cool way to chill out and feel connected with the big, wide world above us. This isn’t just staring at the sky; it’s about finding a calm spot inside you and feeling like you’re a part of something huge and amazing. Whether you’re new to chilling out this way or just want to try something different, sky gazing is an awesome and easy way to get started. Ready to give it a go? Let’s jump in!

What is Sky Gazing Meditation?

A form of one-pointed focus meditation, sky gazing involves focusing your attention on the clear space beyond the horizon. This practice helps you relax, calm the mind and connect to reality.

A sense of awe is often evoked when stargazing and can spark creativity in the mind. It may also help you feel more connected to nature, as the night sky reveals we are just a small part of an infinite universe.

Lama Surya Das explains how the practice of sky gazing leads to a natural great perfection of “sky mind” or panoramic awareness. He also explores the difference between Mahamudra and Dzogchen practices.

Benefits of Sky Gazing Meditation

The practice of sky gazing helps to release the narrow confines of ego and connects us to the vast clear open space of awareness that is our true and authentic natural state. This practice brings a sense of freedom, peace, joy and awe.

The main benefits

Benefit	Description
Stress Reduction	The vastness of the sky helps put things in perspective, reducing stress and promoting calmness.
Increased Mindfulness	Encourages a state of open awareness, enhancing mindfulness in everyday life.
Improved Focus	Regular practice can improve concentration and the ability to stay present.
Emotional Well-being	The act of sky gazing can evoke feelings of awe and contentment, improving overall emotional health.
Connection with Nature	Helps strengthen a sense of connection with the natural world and the larger universe.
Enhanced Creativity	The open-ended nature of sky gazing can stimulate creative thinking and imagination.

It can be done anywhere, anytime during the day or night and doesn’t require any equipment. Just find a place where you can see the sky, sit or lie down comfortably and relax. Start with some deep long slow breaths and then begin to slowly focus your attention on the sky.

If it gets difficult to concentrate, just gaze into the clear expansive blue sky (best on non cloudy days) without distraction or dullness. Become aware that your outer space is the same as your inner sky like awareness, merge with it and allow yourself to dissolve into that awareness repeatedly. The more you practise this, the more the outer and inner space will be one, allowing you to feel liberated from the tyranny of your mind.

How to Practice Sky Gazing Meditation

Sky gazing is a powerful practice for breaking free from the narrow confines of the personality or ego and connecting to a vast, clear open space of awareness that is your authentic nature. It brings relaxation, peace, joy and a fresh sense of connection to reality, the natural state of things.

Begin by finding a place where you can gaze at a large expanse of clear sky (preferably on a non-cloudy day). Sit comfortably and settle into your meditation posture. Relax your body and focus your attention on the out-breath, letting other thoughts, emotions and sensations come and go as they may.

Then follow these 6 steps: 

Step	Description
1. Find a Comfortable Spot	Choose an outdoor location with a clear view of the sky, away from bright lights.
2. Sit or Lie Down	Sit on a chair or lie down on a mat, ensuring you’re comfortable and your neck isn’t strained.
3. Relax Your Gaze	Look up at the sky, letting your gaze soften and your eyes relax, without focusing on any particular point.
4. Breathe Naturally	Maintain natural and relaxed breathing, avoiding any forced patterns.
5. Let Thoughts Pass	As thoughts come, acknowledge them without attachment and gently return your focus to the sky.
6. Set a Time Limit	Start with shorter sessions (5-10 minutes) and gradually increase as you become more comfortable.

With time, you can progress to antaranga, internal gazing, where you replace the external object with a mental image in your mind’s eye. When you have mastered this level of the practice, you can then move to gazing into the void.

Final Thoughts

So, we’ve checked out Sky Gazing Meditation, and it’s pretty clear it’s more than just looking at clouds. It’s about feeling calm and connected, like you’re part of something bigger. When you gaze up at the sky, it’s a simple way to take a break and find some peace. Remember, next time you’re outside, take a moment to look up and just breathe. It’s a simple thing, but it can make you feel great. Sky gazing isn’t just a chill-out trick; it’s a way to feel a bit more connected to the world around you. Give it a try and see how cool it feels!