BRAHMACHARYA – Right use of energy

Brahmacharya – the fourth Yama – translates to “behaviour leading to Brahman“. Brahman is ‘the creator’, symbolizing ‘the divine’ or ‘higher power’. Contrary to common belief associating Brahmacharya solely with celibacy, its essence lies in harnessing your energy and consciously directing it towards your highest potential. It signifies the ‘right use of energy’, steering it away from transient external desires – those pleasures which seem great at the time but are ultimately fleeting – towards inner peace and higher pursuits. Each mindful choice and intentional action fuels your inner fire, propelling you forward on your unique path. Fundamentally Brahmacharya means to move from being a compulsive human being to a conscious human being. At the surface of life, our physical nature is about survival and procreation. At the same time there is another dimension of nature within you which wants to expand in a boundless way. Will you give in to your compulsions or will you give in to your inner nature? If you give in to the physical nature all you will know is just this.

This Yoga Sutra highlights that practicing Brahmacharya conserves and channels one’s energy for spiritual advancement. Reflect on where your energy is predominantly focused. Much of it might be consumed by worry, striving to meet external expectations, or pursuing physical perfection. A significant portion may also be spent trying to present yourself as someone you’re not, to please or impress others.

To be the best version of ourselves and to use our energy in the optimal way, we need to prioritize listening to our bodies. By tuning into our energy needs and taking proactive steps to support our well-being, we can effectively channel our vitality towards positive endeavors. If we are able to direct our energy towards something positive each day – rather than directing our energy towards our often negative thoughts – we’ll not only be able to boost our immune system, but we’ll also actively be making the right use of our energy.

In today’s fast-paced society, busyness is often equated with productivity. However, Brahmacharya underscores the importance of discerning whether our activities align with our values and goals. Constantly overloading our schedules may project an image of productivity externally, but it often leaves us feeling depleted internally. Embracing Brahmacharya invites us to evaluate the quality of our energy expenditure. Are our daily tasks draining us or nourishing us? Can we carve out moments to pause, breathe, and cultivate inner peace amidst our busy lives? Slowing down allows the body and mind a much-needed break while increasing awareness of your energy usage.

Practical ways to practice BRAHMACHARYA

• Discover your dharma: What brings you meaning and fulfillment? Reflect on behaviors that align with your higher purpose for optimal use of your energy.
• Regularly check in with yourself to assess your energy levels, emotions, and overall well-being. Pay attention to how your body and mind respond to different situations. Listen to your body’s signals and evaluate where your energy is directed. Notice how certain people or activities affect your energy levels. Do some people drag your energy down? Do others make you light up? Is there something you love doing that really gives you a boost? By becoming mindful of not just what you do, but how you do it, and its impact on you, you can align your actions with your inner vitality and fulfillment. Observe your senses to become aware of how external stimuli affect your energy and choose wisely what you engage with.
• Analyze your routines. Ensure that your hobbies and commitments support your goals in wellness, work, and life. Add enriching activities and eliminate what doesn’t serve. Seek out what fills you up and inspires you.
• Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Prioritize activities that nourish your body, mind, and spirit, such as exercise, healthy nutrition, adequate sleep, meditation and mindfulness. Schedule regular breaks throughout the day to recharge and rejuvenate.
• Establish clear boundaries around your time, energy, and resources. Say no to commitments that do not align with your goals or values. Prioritize tasks that contribute to your personal and professional growth.
• Choose uplifting thoughts and activities that inspire and motivate you. Avoid negativity and gossip that consume your mental fire.
• Cultivate healthy emotional expression and avoid getting drawn into drama or unnecessary attachments.
• Set clear intentions, directing energy towards goal achievement.
• Review your goals and priorities periodically to ensure they align with your evolving vision and values. Adjust your plans as needed. Stay flexible and adaptable in the face of change. Observe & listen to what wants to emerge through you, and get out of your own way.
• Identify activities and projects that contribute the most value to your business or personal life. Delegate or eliminate low-priority tasks. Streamline your workload to focus on what truly matters.
• Pause and reflect before making decisions: Consider alignment with long-term vision and values. Avoid impulsive actions and strive for clarity and purpose in every decision.
• Embrace discipline and moderation, avoiding overindulgence.
• Surround yourself with supportive and uplifting individuals who encourage your growth and success. Cultivate and nurture meaningful connections with colleagues, mentors, and peers who share your values and aspirations.
• Be present in the moment, avoiding dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.
• Fight the FOMO: Prioritize self-care and say no when necessary.
• After significant life events, create routines supporting interests and nourishing health.

Incorporating these practices into your daily life cultivates a profound sense of balance, purpose, and fulfillment, empowering you as a conscious leader & entrepreneur.