The duration of the day, which we spend in observing the echoes of tranquillity is Brahma Muhūrta. A Practice for the Divine in this span adds up our deeds of selfless service. We become a part of this Aesthetic Bliss, and contribute to the Transcendental Harmony of the universe.
Does this term “Brahma” signify the Creator of the universe, Lord Brahma? Do we have to carry out the rituals to please Him, for we may get the knowledge of the Vedās (oldest texts in history)? The answers to these questions is ‘no’. Here, Brahma means the Ātmā, the Shakti, the soul. It is the Ātmā which prevails in all creations, from an atom to the Asiatic Elephant. The entire world is filled with “Thy” bliss (“charā-chara” or “roma-roma mein…..”).
If the term signifies the soul, then why does it have a unique time? Why can’t all the day be called the Brahma Muhūrta? Yes, it can be so, but if we remember It’s presence all day long. This is not an easy task….
The people, who follow the life of a householder, can’t remember Thy name, 24×7. They have duties to perform, and they cannot renounce them and practice meditation, all day. Thus, a specific duration is observed as the time for chanting the Name and for concentrating over a Point. This prime time is between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m.; and another span, is at the ending dusk. Why is this a rule for meditating in these hours only?
Easy explanations are generated by the scientists. Classical texts say, “Yat Pinde, Tat Brahmānde”. This means, the Macrocosm reflects itself in the Microcosm, in ultimate congruency. Whatever exists or happens in the outside world, sets symptoms in our bodies, too. The time zone in which we live, the corresponding span between 3 a.m. to 6 a.m. is as transcendental as Brahma Itself. During this time, 99.9% of the population is asleep, conquered by the tamoguńa (the factor which imparts ego, lust, greed and the rest to our being). But, Brahma is always awake. There is voidness in air of particulates and havoc. Even, the phone (the greatest demon on the planet) does not disturb us. The negative aura of a person does not interfere with that of the awakened one.
Similar scenario is generated in the evening. When the sunlight becomes dull enough to be called night, lights are lighted in our homes for eliminating darkness. The same should be done on the inside, where the darkness of mind has to be abolished. The lighting can be done by concentrating on the inner Self. This time is also favourable for practice as all the animals return to their homes, nocturnal creatures have not emerged yet; the living world runs towards silence (except humans, what a mockery???).
Benefits- Practice of meditation at specific times, cleanses our mind, all the negativities are abolished, character becomes strong, we become spiritually uplifted, physical health blossoms, circadian rhythm runs smoothly making us feel fresh all day.. and much more. Persistent practice of waking up early, creates enormous positive changes in our body and mind. At the verge of tremendous practice, all the six gifts are imbibed inside out. The mind merges with the Oneness. Even, at the death bed, fear turns out to be dry.
If it is not practiced- Sleeping for late hours in the morning, after sunrise, demolishes our day-night cycle. Physical ailments set in. Mental health falls. Such people with lethargic habits, easily fall prey to anxiety, depression and they panic the most. It is quite shameful to even speak about spiritual wellbeing of such people.
It is often, said that horrendous dreams display themselves between 12 to 3 a.m.. And, the dreams, which appear after 3 a.m., are generally right and are often remembered. This has a deep reason behind. The intensity of sleep is quite shallow between 3 a.m. to 6 a.m.; this shallow sleep is called Sushuptāvasthā in Sanskrit. The unique dreams in this duration, signify that it is the right time to wake up.
If we have to get rid of our laziness and negativities, we should wake up between 3 to 6. In case, we can’t withstand the lethargy, we may sleep for a while, but wake up again within the Brahma Muhūrta. Remaining away from the bed and splashing handfuls of water on the face is the first important step to be performed. Life will transform into the infinite ecstasy, as the Brahma Itself.