Wet dreams are often a manifestation of unfulfilled sexual desires in the subconscious mind. If a person indulges in sexual fantasies while awake, they are more likely to experience sexual or erotic dreams during sleep, which may or may not result in a wet dream with the emission of fluid.
However, with consistent and genuine practice of Brahmacharya, which involves celibacy in thought, word, and deed, one can eventually reach a state where wet dreams no longer occur. This is due to the purification of the physical, astral, and causal bodies.
If there is an occasional emission of fluid, it is usually just a small amount of prostatic fluid being released for cleansing purposes, which is a normal and healthy process. This type of emission will not be accompanied by sexual thoughts or fantasies and will not result in feelings of weakness, dullness, or guilt.
In this state of true celibacy, such cleansing may only occur once or twice a year, and the person may not even be aware of it as they are likely to have experienced deep, dreamless sleep. This type of emission is not to be confused with an erotic wet dream, which can have negative consequences.
Preventing wet dreams and nightfall while practicing brahmacharya requires a combination of physical, mental, and spiritual practices. Here are some general tips that might be helpful:
- Physical activity: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as yoga or exercise, can help reduce the buildup of sexual energy.
- Healthy diet: Eating a nutritious diet, avoiding spicy and fatty foods, and staying hydrated can also help prevent wet dreams.
- Mental discipline: Cultivating mental discipline by avoiding sexual thoughts, images, and stimulation can reduce the frequency of wet dreams.
- Meditation: Regular meditation can help calm the mind and redirect sexual energy towards spiritual pursuits.
- Devotion: Cultivating devotion and a strong connection to a higher power can help reduce the pull of sexual desire.
- Abstinence: Avoiding sexual stimulation, including pornography and masturbation, can reduce the likelihood of wet dreams.
It is important to note that every person is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. It is important to find what works best for you and to be consistent and patient in your efforts.
How often do I experience wet dreams as a celibate?
It is not appropriate to speak from personal experience regarding the frequency of wet dreams, as it may appear self-promoting. However, one can state that wet dreams can reduce significantly or stop entirely once gross and subtle impurities are effectively removed. The level of purity required for permanent cessation of wet dreams is subjective and can only be determined through continued experiences of success or failure.
It is important to remember that we are all students on this path and must remain vigilant and humble. No amount of effort is ever enough, as there is always room for improvement. The moment we become complacent or believe ourselves to be beyond lust, we expose our shortcomings.
Perseverance and devotion to God are key to success. The Bhagavad-Gita teaches that even when one restricts their senses and refrains from the objects of sense enjoyment, the taste for such enjoyment remains until one realizes the supreme. Hence, until the ultimate goal of self-realization is achieved, one is always a student and susceptible to the onslaught of the senses. Humility and honest effort are the key to reaching this goal.
How Can I Prevent Wet Dreams?
Wet dreams are a result of internal sexual impulses and unresolved desires that find an outlet during the dream state. They are also the result of strong sexual karma stored in the causal body, or “Karana Sharira.” To overcome this issue, one must make a sincere and determined effort, coupled with a strong desire to break free from the grip of sexuality. Cultivating unwavering devotion and love for God through prayer and meditation is key.
At the physical level, a celibate must engage in daily yoga or physical exercise to support the transmutation of the vital essence. At the mental level, one must cultivate pure thoughts and avoid anger, passion, and excitement. Allocating time each day for meditation on God with an attitude of gratitude, love, and devotion is also important.
With persistent efforts based on honesty, sincerity, and determination, success will gradually come and wet dreams will become less frequent and eventually disappear. This will help the celibate make significant progress towards becoming a complete “Urdhvaretha” yogi.
