Episode 17: The Art of Moderation

Walking Dharma

This week's podcast dives into the yama (abstinence) of brahmacharya (continence).

"To one established in brahmacharya, vigor is gained." Yoga Sutras 2:38

Brahma: Creation; God.
Charya: To follow.
Brahmacharya: To follow Creation; continence.

Brahmacharya (continence) is the ability to remain moderate and balanced in all areas of our life. Traditionally translated as 'abstinence,' brahmacharya also is a concept used to convey middle path mentality. To live life from a middle path mentality is to willingly and consciously be moderate in our intake of all things, including: sexual contact, food, extreme emotional states (addictive emotional states), work, play, substance intake, physical exercise, etc.

When we become open to and integrate the idea of living life from a balanced, moderate state, we become more directed, potent and efficient in all undertakings. The ability to know when to move forward and know when to rest and surrender things as they are temporarily to build up our energy allows us to build momentum so we can efficiently propel ourselves in the direction of our dreams and aspirations.

When we consciously preserve our energy we gain a tremendous amount of vigor and strength which allows us to live life at full potentcy. Whereas when we live life from extremes (too much or too little) we disperse our vital energy (prana) and therefore may unintentionally render ourselves ineffective.

Why water yourself down when you can be concentrated? For when you are concentrated you become capable of fully directing your attention and intention where it is most beneficial for you and the ones you love.

Special outro music at the end of the podcast is called 'Trust' (feat. Mitch Brady) and is produced by DJ Karishtan. It is available for download via iTunes and Spotify.