Some practical understanding and Antidotes

Let us start with the gross level, the body. In daily living, the most important parameter for energy accumulation or dissipation is the alignment of the spine which dictates the alignment of the posture. If the spine moves away from the neutral spine alignment it will lead to dissipation of energy. With a bad posture the spine slumps, thus creating a compression on the breathing mechanism. The breathing apparatus is located in the rib cage area. The restricted breath affects the state of mind. The mind becomes dull and lethargic. Therefore, it results in triggering of negative emotions when a situation presents itself. When you react negatively to a situation, you will feel drained. With a dull mind, one tends to make incorrect decisions. Result: dissipation of energy.

When you feel anger towards a person, you will keep rolling in the same thought pattern even when the person is not around. This dissipates a lot of energy. The only way to counter the negative state is to replace your anger with thoughts of compassion (karuna) for the person. This is easier said than done. But, it is the only way. At least in the beginning it may be superficial but it will calm you to some extent. When you calm down, you are saving energy, you will be able to see that anger from a different perspective. Maybe you will see the action of the other person as his weakness and feel compassion for him. Ill will can be overcome by loving kindness (maitri), covetousness can be countered by sympathetic joy in another’s progress (mudita), and greed can be overcome by generosity (dana).

Being passionate about everything is energizing. You can be passionate only if you have energy. If you get attached to your passion, it becomes an obsession and dissipates your energy. Excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures drains your energy. Similarly, craving and aversion dissipate energy. They are a result of attachment to desire.