Holiday Theme
Brahmacharya
(Mindful use of energy)

The studio focus for the rest of 2025 is Brahmacharya — self restraint, celibacy, and a constant awareness of Brahman, or supreme consciousness.

We can be true to the idea of brahmacharya in contemporary times by being mindful about how and what we consume, especially this time of year. 

Brahmacharya is one of 5 Yama or restraints that comprise the 8 limbs of classical yoga from centuries ago, but its relevance today speaks to the timelessness of the human condition.

Brahmacharya teaches us that moderate consumption is not just an old adage, but holds the key to our survival. Today, we consume food, information, material goods, etc. at rates never before seen in human history.

Hatha Yoga Pradipika makes a lot of diet recommendations; for starters, a bland diet that's not too greasy, nor spicy; no leftovers, no meat, etc. For many of us, however, the restrictions may be impractical. We can take baby steps and still make a big difference if we simply become more aware of how we let our minds and bodies interact with the bountiful fruits of this Earth.