Ideal Meditation Times

According to yoga wisdom, the most potent and effective times to meditate are during the sandhyas, junctures or transitions in the day.

In the morning, at surise: Traditionally between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m., the Brahma Muhurta Sandhya is the most auspicious time to meditate, according to the ancients. The mind is calm and refreshed after a good night’s sleep, and the distractions of the day have yet to begin.

At noon: Known as the Vishnu Sandhya, this noontime break can refocus your mind, reestablish your posture, and shake off the midday doldrums.

In the evening, at sunset: Meditating at the Mahesha Sandhya, just as the sun goes down on your day, will help you create a separation between your work world and your home life.

Try meditating at each of these sandhyas to discover the one that works best for you. Begin sitting for a short period—15 or 20 minutes is a good start—and gradually increase the length of your practice. Treat yourself gently; don’t add too many minutes too quickly, or you could become frustrated and undermine your own best efforts.