Answer

To break Chovihar Pachkhan, you should generally do it after sunrise, with a calm and respectful mind, by taking permitted food or water according to the Pachkhan you had taken.

In simple practice:

• First remember the purpose of your Pachkhan with humility.
• After the Pachkhan period is over, usually after sunrise, take water or suitable food.
• Do it mindfully, without greed or hurry.
• If you are following a specific family, temple, or sect tradition, follow the guidance of your Guru, Maharaj Saheb, Sadhviji, or knowledgeable elder.

Explanation

Chovihar means giving up all four types of intake at night:

• Food
• Water
• Mukhvas or chewable items
• Any drink or edible substance

So, when you “break” Chovihar, you resume intake only after the proper time has passed. Traditionally, this is done after sunrise, because Chovihar is mainly connected with avoiding eating and drinking during the night.

Spiritual Understanding

Chovihar Pachkhan is not only a rule about food. It is a practice of:

• Self-control
• Reducing attachment to taste
• Carefulness toward subtle living beings
• Discipline in daily life

When breaking it, the feeling should be respectful and restrained, not careless.

Takeaway

Break Chovihar after sunrise, peacefully and mindfully, by taking water or food according to your tradition. If unsure, follow the guidance of your Guru or Jain elder.