BRAHMACHARYA - 21. HATHA YOGA TO RESCUE - Sri Swami Sivanda - The Practice of BRAHMACHARYA Celibacy

BRAHMACHARYA - 21. HATHA YOGA TO RESCUE - Sri Swami Sivanda - The Practice of Celibacy - HQ Full Book.

In the pursuit of maintaining Brahma-Charya (celibacy) and harnessing one's vital energies, Hatha Yoga emerges as a powerful tool. The regular practice of specific Yogic postures (Asanas) and Pranayama (breathing exercises) can significantly aid in managing and transcending the sexual impulse, which is a natural challenge for many individuals on the path of spiritual development. 

The Role of Asanas in Controlling Sexual Energy
Hatha Yoga is a comprehensive system that aligns body, breath, and mind. It offers practical solutions to help control the body’s impulses, particularly the sexual drive. Certain Asanas, specifically designed by ancient Rishis like Gheranda, Matsyendra, and Goraksha, are particularly potent in redirecting sexual energy toward spiritual growth. Among these, SirshAsana (Headstand) and SarvangAsana (Shoulder Stand) are highlighted as critical for maintaining Oordhvaretas (those who elevate their vital energies). These Asanas, also known as Vipareeta Karani Mudras, are designed to channel the sexual energy upward toward the brain, turning it into spiritual energy (ojas), vital for contemplation and self-realization. By incorporating Pranayama into these practices, the mind progressively moves from the gross, worldly distractions to the more refined and subtle realms. This combination helps in curbing sexual irritations and strengthens the practitioner’s control over desires. Whenever unwanted thoughts arise, sitting in a meditative posture such as PadmAsana or SiddhAsana, and engaging in focused Pranayama, can instantly calm the mind and dispel disturbing thoughts. 

SiddhAsana: The Foundation for Brahma-Charya
SiddhAsana is one of the most revered postures for those aspiring to practice Brahma-Charya. This posture is known for its effectiveness in controlling passions, especially sexual desires, and preventing nocturnal emissions. The posture involves sitting with the left heel at the anus and the right heel at the root of the generative organs. This alignment helps to steady the energy flow within the body and create a grounded, calm state. Practitioners start with a duration of 30 minutes and gradually extend this to three hours, which is considered a mark of mastery over the Asana. Mastery of SiddhAsana leads to deeper meditation and greater control over the body and mind, thus aiding in the pursuit of celibacy and spiritual growth. 

SirshAsana: The King of Asanas
Among all the Asanas, SirshAsana (Headstand) is considered the most powerful. It has a multitude of benefits, both physical and spiritual. By reversing the flow of energy in the body, SirshAsana prevents the downward flow of sexual energy and instead directs it upward toward the brain. This inversion enhances circulation to the brain, making the mind more alert and receptive to higher states of consciousness. It also aids in the regulation of sexual impulses by transforming the body's vital energy into spiritual strength. In the practice of SirshAsana, the body is supported by the head and hands, with the legs raised vertically. For beginners, a wall or a partner’s assistance is essential for maintaining balance. Once mastered, the practitioner can remain in the position for extended periods. It is crucial to maintain slow, controlled breath during this posture, as erratic breathing can disrupt the Asana’s effectiveness. 

SarvangAsana: The Shoulder Stand
SarvangAsana is another pivotal posture in controlling sexual energy. It similarly helps in redirecting vital energies upward. In this pose, the body is supported by the shoulders and elbows, with the legs raised and pressed against the body. This Asana stimulates the thyroid and parathyroid glands, boosts circulation, and tones the nervous system. When practiced in conjunction with SirshAsana, SarvangAsana magnifies th