Slokam 5

The slokam beautifully describes what happens when Brahma goes to sleep. He along with all the worlds are withdrawn into the Paramathma.  At this point, the whole universe appears as a vast ocean only. 

This implies that when consciousness is withdrawn, nothing remains.  There is complete stillness. 

Is it not correct to say that the same thing happens when we go into deep sleep?  All awareness is lost.  Awareness of objects in the wakeful state is also self awareness.  The universe, being a reflection of the inner self,  when the inner self or consciousness is put to sleep,  the universe also becomes completely devoid of all objects.

This highlights the Maya aspect of the universe.  Consciousness is independent of the universe.  Consciousness is born as dependent on perception of objects,  and gradually, through the practice of detachment, gains complete independence and liberation.  In its pure state, it is completely self sufficient.