Brahma Muhurta is the time in the morning, about an hour and a half before sunrise, which is greeted for its auspiciousness, being considered the most auspicious and spiritually charged time of the day. Now it's best to connect with the divine and increase awareness and consciousness.
In Sanskrit, the word Brahma means the supreme reality or source of all existence, while Muhurta refers to a unit of time that is equivalent to 48 minutes. So Brahma Muhurta literally means time of ultimate reality, and in Sanskrit, translates to “the hour of Brahma” or “the creator’s hour.”
Brahma Muhurta lasts about 1.5 hours before sunrise, which varies depending on the time of year and geographical location. To get the full benefit of Brahma Muhurta, start the practice at least 1 hour before sunrise.
What benefits you can get:
Because the mind is naturally quieter and more receptive to spiritual practice during Brahma Muhurta, it will be particularly powerful and effective. Since Sattva, or purity, fills the mind and atmosphere, during these hours, any form of spiritual practice performed during this time can have profound benefits for your physical, mental and spiritual well-being.
This night period, when nature prepares to awaken, is the specific time that can be used to perceive the specific energies of the force centres - Chakras in their refined form. The stillness of nature during this time enhances sensitivity to the subtle forces at play.
Yogic tradition often stresses the importance of calming fluctuations of the mind (Chitta Vritti) to achieve higher states of consciousness.** Brahma Muhurta** provides an auspicious and tranquil setting, supporting a natural stillness of the mind, essential for deeper meditation and self-reflection, supports a natural stillness of the mind. In this state, the mind is emptied of all worldly impressions and samskaras, like a blank sheet of paper. During Brahma Muhurta, the mind becomes highly receptive and pliable. This heightened receptivity fostering a profound connection with the inner self and facilitating spiritual transformation.
There is plenty of oxygen during Brahma muhurta, which properly mixes with haemoglobin to form oxyhemoglobin, which stimulates the immune system.
Additionally:
- oxygen nourishes and revitalises every cell in the body
- increases energy level
- enhances the absorption of minerals and vitamins
- the full existence of ozone in the atmosphere favours the purification of the lungs
- provides high-quality oxygen that reduces stress
- the ageing process is delayed because it decreases oxidative stress in the body.
Do these things to benefit the fullest from Brahma Muhurtham:
- According to Ayurveda, the early morning is Sattva, during the day is Rajas, and Tamas prevails at night. It is traditional to rise early, before the sun, to bathe and begin your morning meditation, all in the sacred atmosphere of Brahma muhurta.
- The stillness of the early morning provides an ideal setting for concentration and contemplation.
- The absence of external distractions allows for improved mental focus, making it conducive for deep and meaningful study. It's seen as a time when one's efforts in learning are likely to be more fruitful.
- Deep Breathing (Pranayama): Practice pranayama or deep breathing exercises to oxygenate the body and enhance lung capacity. Breathing exercises contribute to mental clarity and focus.
- Sankalpa (Positive Affirmation): Set positive intentions for the day. Reflect on your goals and aspirations, and make a conscious affirmation.
- Sun Salutation (Surya Namaskar): Perform a series of Sun Salutations, a dynamic sequence of yoga postures that flow with the breath. Here is a simple guide for one round of Sun Salutation
- Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness by observing your thoughts without attachment. Allow them to pass by like passing clouds while remaining focused on the present moment.
- Gratitude: Take a few moments to express your gratitude. Consider the positive aspects of your life, recognising the blessings for which you are grateful.
- Yoga asanas, or postures, performed during Brahma Muhurta can be especially beneficial for overall well-being. Here's more information:
- Body Flexibility: Early morning hours are ideal for improving body flexibility. Gentle stretches and movements in asanas can help remove stiffness from the muscles and joints, promoting flexibility.
- Breath Coordination: A key aspect of Brahma Muhurta practice is coordinating yoga postures with breath (pranayama). Controlled breathing improves the flow of prana (life force energy) and aids in the formation of a stronger bond between the body and mind.
- Fat Burning: Certain dynamic asanas can help you burn calories and stimulate your metabolism. Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar) or poses that engage multiple muscle groups can be incorporated to help with weight loss.
- Mind Freshening: The serenity of Brahma Muhurta creates an ideal environment for mental refreshment. Mindful yoga posture engagement promotes mental clarity, reduces stress, and establishes a positive tone for the day. Yoga during Brahma Muhurta is not just a physical exercise but an opportunity for holistic well-being. It integrates physical body postures - asana, mental clarity and spiritual awareness, aligning you with the natural rhythm of the morning hours.
Whether you are new or experienced in yoga or other spiritual practices, experiencing Brahma Muhurta can be similar to experiencing beautitude. To fully benefit from Brahma Muhurta prepare the evening before by sufficient rest and by setting the intention to practice.
When time for spiritual practice is limited, waking up before sunrise can be difficult, so look at it as a challenge that will transform your spiritual practice and your perception of it.
In conclusion:
Brahma Muhurta promotes holistic well-being by integrating physical body postures, mental clarity, and spiritual awareness. Embracing this sacred time, regardless of experience, can transform spiritual practices and perceptions, opening the door to profound spiritual experiences and bliss. It's a transformative journey worth embarking on by adequately preparing the night before and accepting the challenge of waking up before sunrise.