Brahmacharya: Questions

Brahmacharya- moderation.

Brahmacharya is the practice of non-excess, moderation, and right use of energy. It’s the practice of experiencing the pleasure, wonder, and the mystery of life without over-indulgence. Brahma is Sanskrit for God or creation. Charya translates to mean “one who is established in”. Brahmacharya can then be translated as “One who is established in the way of God or the creative force.” When you choose to look at yourself and your energy as sacred, the practice of moderation becomes easeful and an act of honoring the divine with yourself and others.

Find ways to practice Brahmacharya that align with your needs. Record your answers to the questions below to guide your monthly Yama practice – Be honest with yourself.

• Where do I spend my energy?

• When does my energy get drained?

• What areas of my life have excess? Where do I over-indulge? (Food? Social media? Work? Socializing? Sex? Sweets? Alcohol? Etc.)

• Why do I move past the feeling of having enough into excess?

• How can I make the best use of my vital energy?

• Where in my life am I skilled at practicing moderation?

• Does your mind move a lot? Identify 3-5 ways you’re able to slow your thoughts down or calm your mind.