Sunrise in Rishikesh

Winner of the contest of the week.

Let’s talk about waking up at 5 a.m.

In yoga philosophy, we learn about Brahma Muhurta — the divine period between 3:30 and 5 a.m. that’s considered the most auspicious time to wake up. Honestly, that’s at least two hours earlier than I would normally rise!

But here’s the thing: whether or not you give it a name, it really makes a difference. The peace and quiet, the sense of aloneness, the deeper connection with the self — those are the true awakenings of that hour.

It’s magical to watch the colours of the sky shift, while your breathing seems to move with them. From Tapovan, you can see the sun rising behind the mighty peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas — give it a try!

Some say the best things in life are free. Well, if this isn’t the best, it’s surely a strong candidate.