Brahmacharaya: Your Energy, Your Responsibility

The fourth of the yamas, brahmacharya, revolves around energy—its conservation, protection, and direction—all to promote progress in a yoga-inspired life.

Energy Protection

It can be viewed as the 'right' use of energy, a highly personal concept. Some interpretations associate brahmacharya with the preservation of sexual energy + celibacy. However, if someone perceives celibacy as their right use of energy, then it becomes their personal practice of brahmacharya.

Practicing brahmacharya involves directing our energy toward higher vibrations—finding equanimity, peace, joy, + happiness within ourselves. Clearly defining where we want to direct our energy assists in understanding our current energetic path + whether it aligns with brahmacharya.

Upon reflection, we might discover that much of our energy is directed in ways that do not serve our highest selves: conforming to fit in, comparing ourselves, engaging in toxic environments, + adopting behaviors and habits that don't align with our highest vibrational self. To be the best version of ourselves, we must protect, conserve, direct, + nurture our energy—the essence of brahmacharya.

Energy levels fluctuate constantly due to various factors, such as hormones, experiences, interactions, + the changing seasons. Life is ever-flowing, and our energy management needs to adapt to avoid becoming stuck + stagnant. Yoga provides a means to practice brahmacharya—using calming meditations during stress, restorative asanas during illness, fluid vinyasas for creativity, + deep dives into philosophy for moments of inquiry. Explore the yamas + the niyamas to embrace a yoga-inspired lifestyle that extends beyond the mat.

Clear + Protect Your Vibration

Let yoga serve you! If you're uncertain where to begin, I offer philosophy, asana, + meditation videos, all centered around brahmacharya to help you truly embody this practice.

In our modern world, the constant pressure to do more, be more, work harder, + work longer is unsustainable + exhausting. Ego often takes control as we feel obligated to live up to these expectations.

Reflecting on my teaching days, I wore stress as a badge of honor, praised for how stressed I appeared. The people-pleaser in me embraced it enthusiastically, but it was energetically draining. I've outgrown this vibration, recognizing its low state + its contribution to some of the lowest points in my life. Through yoga, I've gained awareness + connection, enabling me to practice brahmacharya in daily life, not just on the mat. I rest when tired, cry when sad, get creative when inspired, move slowly when fatigued, + practice handstands when playful. These are just some ways to support, nurture, + nourish our energy based on its needs, fostering a flow state rather than rigidity.

Growth doesn't flourish when forced; abundance enters when we create space. Regardless of your daily schedule, become aware not just of what you do but how you do it + its impact on your vibe. Slowing down facilitates listening + acting from a mindful place. Remember, how can we listen if we don't get quiet?

Showing up for yourself doesn't deplete energy; it creates + protects energy. After all, we can't give what we don't have. By choosing to cultivate a life that serves you, you'll authentically + genuinely serve the world in the most necessary ways.

Learn More

Learn more about brahmacharya + how to live a yoga-inspired life over on the Inspired Club.