I wish I could show you, when you are alone or in darkness, the Astonishing Light of your own being.”

This wonderful quote from the Persian Poet, Hafiz, is one I come back to again and again. I am constantly amazed at how easily we forget the presence of this Light. Tantric sages recognised this human tendency, and described a kind of veil that descends, preventing us from seeing clearly the true nature of things. This veil of negativity can be quite persistent at times and it requires a strong and steady heart to see it for what it is, rather than becoming engulfed by it.

This meditation, inspired by Rod Stryker, can be particularly helpful for such times:

Find a quiet, clear space where you won’t be disturbed.

Sitting comfortably, become aware of your breath. Now imagine there is a loving healing light above your head. As you inhale, draw the light in through the crown of your head and down into your heart, as you exhale, let the light fill your heart space – continue for a few minutes.

On your next inhalation, imagine any negativity in the heart space moving up to the crown of the head and as you exhale, let it disperse out into the space above your head. Continue with this visualisation for a few minutes.

Once you feel as if all darkness has lifted from the heart, be aware of a beautiful loving flame in your heart centre, free of all fears, worries and doubts; sit with this awareness for as long as you like.