The mind's eye (or third eye) is a phrase used to refer to one's ability to "see" things (such as visions) with the mind. This is, essentially, a reference to imagination and memory, although it can have religious or occult connotations. The concept is not supported by science.

The term "third eye" is not used for visualization and memory, only for visions. People with well-developed third eyes are sometimes known as "seers". This concept is often associated with clairvoyance, precognition, and out-of-body experiences.

In Hinduism and Buddhism, the third eye is a symbol of enlightenment (see moksha and nirvana). This is commonly denoted in Indian and East Asian iconography with a dot, eye or mark on the forehead of enlightened beings, such as the Shiva or the Buddha, or any number of yogis, sages and bodhisattvas.

In Taoism and some Chinese martial arts, "third eye training" involves focussing attention on the point between the eyebrows with the eyes closed in various qigong postures. The goal being, at first, to be able keep the attention busy while other physiological changes are happening in the body. Eventually this training is designed to allow one to keep one's attention properly on the opponent or opponents in a physical confrontation.

Some claim that the chakras can be opened via chakra gemstones. They claim to open the third eye it takes an amethyst that has been cleaned under flowing water before use.

See also

• chakra
• unconscious mind
• psychedelic mushrooms