Patanjali’s eight limbs of yoga: YAMA | BRAHMAChARYA

Sutra 2.38 A yogi established is continence gains Virya, the capacity to transmit knowledge. 

The practice of brahmacharya results in the achievement of virya, vigor and vitality. Elaborating on this sutra, Vyasa states that the vigor and vitality gained from this practice heal and nurture us so much so that nothing can stop the rise of the body and minds immense power and intelligence. 

Brahmacharya is often translated as celibacy. In that context, brahmacharya means abstaining from sex in thought, speech, and action. In the yoga tradition, however, the practice of Brahmacharya is very precise and methodical. 

In the Sri Vidya tradition, which is the epitome of hatha yoga, kundalini yoga, and tantra yoga, the integration and nourishment of mind, prana, and virya. The three principles that form the foundation of Brahmacharya. These three distinct, yet interconnected, principles keep us alive and healthy. As long as they are fully nourished and working in harmony, our limbs and organs function properly. Our body is vibrant, energised and ready to go, full of confidence. 

The practice of Brahmacharya enables us to restore the pristine nature of these three principles and helps us conserve and enrich their intrinsic powers. However, in the normal course of life, our mental tendencies drain the mind's energy. A shaky, shallow, and noisy breath drains our prana. Sensory indulgence especially phone scrolling drains our vitality. Mind, prana, and virya are so intricately connected that when one is weakened, or focussed, stable and perfected the others will become that too. 

The yogis of the Sri Vidya tradition employ the combined methods of hatha yoga, pranayama, alchemy, and mantra to unite and nurture their mind, prana, and virya. The tradition claims this is the key to to practice Brahmacharya.