When is the best time to meditate?

Written by
Chen Jialiang
Reviewed by
Prof. William Dalton, Ph.D.The ideal meditation time is determined by individual energy patterns and lifestyles. Morning sessions utilize clarity of mind before daily demands mount. Evening sessions help integrate the day's values by allowing for a relaxation phase. Consistency of timing is more important than the timing itself.
Morning meditation taps into the natural alertness that follows waking from sleep. The brain remains relatively clear of clutter before undertaking daily tasks. This serves to set the tone for calm intention throughout the entire day. If you are an early riser, you will usually find this the most productive time of day for meditation.
Evening practice acts as a strong intermediary between activity and rest. Meditation relieves accumulated stress and mental chatter, and prepares the nervous system for restful sleep. Those who are strong in the evening and night energy typically have sharper focus at this time.
Morning Practice
- Meditate within 30 minutes of waking
- Focus on intention-setting for the day
- Use energizing breath techniques
- Keep sessions under 15 minutes
Evening Practice
- Schedule before dinner or bedtime routine
- Focus on body scans for relaxation
- Use calming breath patterns
- Include gratitude reflections
Consistency Building
- Anchor to existing habits like toothbrushing
- Use phone reminders for chosen time
- Track consistency on visible calendar
- Accept occasional time adjustments
To achieve optimal benefits, meditate in alignment with your natural circadian rhythm. Early risers gain the most from morning meditation, while night owls can focus very deeply during evening meditation. Connect with your biology, and don't feel compelled to adhere to conventional timings that may not be effective.
Observe how more uniform timing fortifies your practice of meditation. Consistent practice at about the same hour trains your brain for a more rapid change. After three weeks, your body will become accustomed to meditation, just like any other habit. Guard this time period as a sacred and non-negotiable period of self-care.
Read the full article: How to Start Meditating: A Beginner's Guide