THE PRACTICE OF BRAHMACHARYA: The Path to Spiritual Purity - SECTION I. THE PHENOMENON OF SEX: The Sacred Energy - by Sri Swami Sivananda - HQ Full Book. 

"The Practice of Brahmacharya" by Swami Sivananda explores the philosophical and spiritual discipline of celibacy, or brahmacharya, as a powerful means to spiritual growth and mental clarity. In "Section I: The Phenomenon of Sex", Sivananda addresses the complexities of sexual impulses and the immense value of self-restraint for those on a spiritual path. Each chapter dives deeply into the nature, impact, and transcendence of sexual desires, showing readers how controlling these impulses can lead to purity, peace, and spiritual progress. 
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SECTION I. THE PHENOMENON OF SEX - The Sacred Energy:

**Chapter 1: The Present-Day Degradation**
In this introductory chapter, Sivananda confronts the "degradation" of modern society, which he views as excessively focused on physical pleasures and sensuality. He argues that the pervasive "sexy" nature of the world around us distracts from higher pursuits and is a primary barrier to spiritual growth. According to Sivananda, the answer to these distractions lies in the practice of *spiritual sadhana*, or dedicated spiritual practice, which strengthens the mind against the lure of physical desires. He asserts that brahmacharya is essential in this age, advocating for it as a way to achieve both personal purity and societal upliftment.
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**Chapter 2: The Working of the Sex Impulse**
Here, Sivananda delves into the origins and mechanics of the sex impulse, referring to it as "the flowery bow of Cupid" that tempts even the most dedicated spiritual aspirants. He introduces the concept of *Samskaras*, or mental impressions, in the subconscious mind, explaining that sexual urges stem not only from biological impulses but also from deep-seated impressions that have accumulated over lifetimes. Sivananda encourages readers to reflect on their own level of mental purity as a way to understand the grip of desire on their lives. He admits that eradicating lust is an immense challenge, emphasizing that self-discipline and mindful practice are necessary for overcoming it.
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**Chapter 3: Intensity of the Cravings in Different Persons**
This chapter examines the varying intensity of sexual cravings across different age groups and types of individuals. Sivananda highlights that passion manifests differently in children, youth, and the elderly, with hormonal and psychological factors influencing each stage. Furthermore, he compares the attitudes of sages, spiritual aspirants, and householders, noting that while everyone experiences some degree of desire, spiritual seekers and ascetics are often more equipped to transcend it. He also contrasts the experiences of men and women, showing how gender and societal expectations shape one’s approach to sexuality and purity.
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**Chapter 4: Sex is in Imagination**
In this insightful chapter, Sivananda argues that sexual desire is primarily a product of imagination, fueled by mental constructs rather than objective reality. He explains that beauty, often a trigger for passion, is simply a mental concept, and thus subjective. Misleading societal ideals of beauty, especially those surrounding women, are critiqued for distorting the natural perception of the body. Sivananda cautions that the mind’s fascination with these ideals blinds the intellect, drawing individuals away from the spiritual path. This chapter emphasizes the importance of discerning between physical attraction and spiritual reality.
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**Chapter 5: The Disastrous Effects of Sexual Indulgence**
This chapter outlines the potentially harmful effects of unchecked sexual indulgence on both the body and mind. Sivananda discusses the difference between involuntary nocturnal emissions and voluntary sexual activity, emphasizing that the latter drains vital energy. He presents a picture of the youth in modern society, characterized by "bloodless faces" and depleted energy, as a cautionary example of overindulgence in sensual pleasure. The chapter calls readers to recognize the physical, mental, and spiritual toll of indulgence and to turn towards a life of moderation and restraint.
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**Chapter 6: The Value of Semen**
Sivananda concludes this section with an examination of semen, which he regards as a precious vital substance. He draws on modern medical opinions as well as spiritual insights to emphasize that conserving semen strengthens one’s mental faculties and vital energies. Sivananda links semen to the concepts of *Mind*, *Prana* (vital life force), and *Veerya* (virility), underscoring its value beyond mere biological function. For those on a spiritual path, he advocates for careful preservation and transmutation of this energy to achieve higher consciousness and inner strength.
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Overall, *The Phenomenon of Sex* provides readers with an in-depth understanding of how sexual desires arise, the value of celibacy, and the practices necessary to overcome sensual impulses. Through disciplined brahmacharya, Sivananda teaches, one can cultivate purity, focus, and the mental clarity essential for spiritual enlightenment.

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