Bathing is part of our diurnal activities. People sometimes ask in jest whether there is any ideal time for taking a bath. However, according to people of earlier generations who gave much importance to traditional medicine and astrology, the time you take bath has great significance. The factors that influence the time for washing yourself are sunrise and sunset.
According to Ayurveda, the hours before sunrise and prior to sunset are ideal for bathing. The Malayalam month of Karkidakam, during which elaborate body rejuvenation programmes are resorted to, will set in soon. Bathing and other activities, when carried out according to the tradition, would rejuvenate the mind as well as body.
Dharmashastra, an ancient theological scripture in Sanskrit, has specified different kinds of bathing for different time duration (‘yamas’). They are ‘Munisnanam’, ‘Devasnanam’, ‘Manushyasnanam’ and ‘Rakshasisnanam’.
Munisnanam
Taking a bath between 4 am and 5 am is termed Munisnanam or the ablution of the saints. It is considered the most ideal time for washing yourself. A bath during this time enables you to enjoy pleasure, good health, immunity from diseases, sharp intellect and concentration.
Devasnanam
Cleaning your body between 5 am and 6 am is called Devasnanam or the bathing of the Gods. This time is also perfect for getting fresh as it blesses you with fame, prosperity, mental peace and a comfortable life.
Manushyasnanam
This is the bath of humans and the time is between 6 am and 8 am. Luck, unity and happiness await people washing their body during these hours, says the Dharmashastra.
Rakshasisnanam
As far as possible, avoid taking a bath after 8 in the morning. If you are unable to wash yourself before 8 am, do so just before sunset. A bath after 8 am or Rakshasisnanam leads to difficulties, loss of money and poverty, according to the ancient science. It is based on this belief that old-timers started all their daily routines after a bath before sunrise.