Brahmacharya

Brahmacharya has been defined as chastity with the focus on celibacy or abstinence. That definition does not go to the root of Brahmacharya, “to move in truth” or “moving to the infinite.”

If we look deeper into this practice it takes us to an understanding of finding an inner peace that facilitates a raising of our consciousness.

I found Desikachar’s definition, in his book The Heart of Yoga, more complete.  He says, “More specifically, Brahmacharya suggests that we should form relationships that foster our understanding of the highest truths…..That is why Brahmacharya does not necessarily imply celibacy.  Rather, it means responsible behavior with respect to our goal of moving toward the truth.”  

Another definition is moderation of the senses or right use of energy.  How we direct our energy towards peace and happiness and away from our desires can be described as the practice of Brahmacharya.  

It is often our Avidyas (desires, aversions, fears and ego) that create an unsettled nature within us.  This is the root of suffering and the opposite of Brahmacharya.  Spending time this month looking at when or how we unnerve ourselves, tipping the scales of inner bliss, will be part of the practice.  Discovering how to return ourselves into a harmonic sensation will be another part of the practice.  Moderating our mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual elements will be a wonderful practice for us to do together, feeling each other’s support.

As December comes upon us, with all of its celebrations, gatherings, and indulging, what a perfect month to commit to Brahmacharya.  How will you look to moderate in this month?  Will it be around your physical intake of food or drink?  Maybe you’ll be moderating your self talk or judgments of others.  What does it mean to be moderate in your emotions?  Is it to find balance or harmony?

We look forward to this teaching. In a world and time that seems to foster excessive mindset it will be refreshing to focus on moderation  Fostering moderation, while focusing on personal conflict in our ability to live in bliss (with pleasure rather than suffering), will help you to gain the benefits of  Brahmacharya.  Take one breath at a time, one step at a time.  Feel the support of your community.