On this topic, I don’t always agree with the general view. To me, Brahmacarya is not about strict self-control or celibacy, but rather the mindful use of energy, guided by awareness and a deep sense of presence. Brahmacarya is a way of life that focuses the heart on what matters beyond the material. It’s about choosing to live consciously and in balance despite the inevitable ups and downs of life. It is an act of self-care and humanity.
Certainly, to reach this level of constant awareness, the other four principles provide direction and sustain the path to unity – Brahmacharya -. Ahimsa teaches you not to harm yourself (or others) through what you consume or sustain, whether that be energy, bonds, stimuli, reactions or paths. However, to truly embody Ahimsa, you need Satya: honesty to recognize what nourishes you and what drains you. Asteya then reminds you that not everything deserves your attention, time or peace, and encourages you not to rob yourself of energy by engaging in things that you know will not lead you anywhere. However, life is not linear, and Aparigraha invites you to let go of attachments, such as habits, desires and obsessions, that pull you outward instead of taking you inward.
I have realized that the biggest obstacle to achieving a sense of unity within myself is not external but lies within my own mind and the filters through which I see the world.
Then there’s me, trying to find some middle ground, even though it seems that everyone these days is more interested in taking sides.
My stance is to refuse to go to extremes, embracing all the nuances without demanding purity or perfect coherence. I will walk when I can, get lost when I must, run at times, and stumble occasionally until I find a faded sign reading ‘Unity is this way’.
Perhaps brahmacharya today means not wasting energy on every possible battle but rather protecting vital force for what truly matters. Less unnecessary struggle, more focus. Less inner noise, more presence. And continuing — maybe slowly, but with intention. Today, I see brahmacharya not only as the control or management of desire, but as the ability to stay on track even when faced with detours.
Recognizing in advance that unity is neither a fixed state nor a constant sensation. It cannot be installed or guaranteed and yet, even for brief moments, it is worthwhile because, amidst the noise, this practice offers us a broader, kinder vision: not of a universe outside waiting to be conquered, but of one beating within each one of us. This is not absolute certainty, but an intimate, fragile and profound human experience.
Ultimately, it seems that the real balance is about intentionality. It’s about choosing what matters enough to move towards and what can be left behind. Selection, not rigid restraint.