I wear a Mindfold when I meditate, which allows me to keep my eyes opened. It creates a similar feeling to being in an underground cave while peering into the blackness. The ocular effects are slightly different when not having to focus on closing your eyes, or seeing room light pass through your eyelids. As opposed to a blindfold, a Mindfold allows for free movement the eyes and free blinking of the eyelids. In the right situations and with practices specific to Shamanic Journeying I find it more natural and relaxing to wear the Mindfold than trying to keep my eyes shut for long periods of time. In the inky blackness of the Mindfold colors, shapes and geometric patterns are always more pronounced. Strange that in total blackness, I find it easier to truly see.