When we talk about meditation, the narrative often revolves around stillness, silence, and perhaps the inner voice of our consciousness. However, for many practitioners, meditation can also be a vivid, visually stimulating experience. This phenomenon where individuals see colors or pictures with their eyes closed during meditation is often described as a form of synesthesia a neurological condition where one sense (in this case, hearing or touch) stimulates another (visual imagery). This also happens during energy work or medical intuitive readings. The client starts to see all kind of pictures, mandalas, or colors that don’t even exist on this planet!
The Science Behind the Colors
In meditation, the brain’s activity shifts; there’s a reduction in the usual electrical noise, allowing for more profound states of consciousness. This altered state can lead to the activation of the visual cortex without external stimuli, resulting in phosphenes or spontaneous flashes of light and colors. This isn’t just limited to meditators; it’s a common human experience, though more pronounced in those who meditate regularly. The science suggests it might be linked to the brain’s attempt to make sense of the sensory void or its reaction to the release of endorphins and other neurochemicals during deep relaxation.
From my point of view and personal experience, I believe that the human body reaches a state where it produces its natural DMT (yes the same susbstance that is found in shamanic plants such as ayahuasca), and the mind enters into an altered state of consciousness. That is where the biggest realizations happen, it’s very common that people remember past lives or see divinities or guides. I also consider seeing colors a form of somatic reaction, where the body enters a state of self healing.
Spiritual Interpretations
From a spiritual perspective, these visions are often seen as more than just neurological responses. Many spiritual traditions interpret these colors and images as signs of chakra activation, spiritual guidance, or messages from the subconscious or higher self. For instance, seeing violet might be associated with the crown chakra, indicating a connection to higher consciousness or spiritual awakening. These interpretations can provide meditators with insights into their spiritual journey, offering a personalized roadmap to inner exploration.
Types of Visual Experiences
- Colors: Often, these are the first signs meditators experience, with each color potentially linked to different emotional or energetic states. Red might signify grounding or passion, while blue could indicate calmness or communication. From my perpective, those colors are healing frequencies, that some energy healers refer to as “archangels”. My actual belief of those is for example that green represents archangel raphael, blue Archangel Michael, etc..
- Geometric Patterns or Mandalas: These can represent the interconnectedness of life or the meditative journey itself, symbolizing balance, wholeness, and the path to enlightenment. Some call it “seeing the matrix”, which is also my personal belief, taoists masters or people who can see energies on demand can see the same thing, this is not a random phenomenom.
- Scenes or Landscapes: Some might see detailed scenes, which could be memories, wishful thinking, or symbolic representations of their inner world. For some of us, it makes no doubt that those are remembering past lives. It’s common to burst into tears when we remember certain things, it is such a viceral experience that there is not a single doubt from the experiencer point of view that this is real.
- Faces or Figures: Encounters with spiritual guides, ancestors, or aspects of the self can appear, offering wisdom or comfort.
Navigating These Experiences
For those new to seeing colors or pictures in meditation, it can be both enchanting and bewildering. Here’s how to navigate this:
- Don’t Force It: These visions should come naturally. Forcing can lead to frustration rather than meditation.
- Observe Without Attachment: Treat these visions like clouds passing in the sky; observe them without trying to hold onto them or analyze them too deeply during meditation.
- Journal Your Experiences: After meditation, note what you saw. Patterns or recurring images might reveal personal insights or areas of your life needing attention.
- Seek Guidance: If these visions become overwhelming or lead to confusion, speaking with a meditation teacher or spiritual guide can provide clarity.
A New Dimension of Meditation
Seeing colors or pictures with your eyes closed during meditation isn’t just a quirky side effect; it’s a testament to the complexity of the human mind and the vastness of our inner universe. Whether you view these experiences through a scientific, spiritual, or psychological lens, they enrich the meditative practice, offering layers of experience that deepen our understanding of ourselves and our place in the cosmos. Embracing this form of synesthesia can lead to profound personal growth and spontaneous healings, a deeper connection with the self, and perhaps even a glimpse into the unknown parts of our psyche or the spiritual realm.