Dealing with desires

Feb 24, 1936

Question: How to root out the sexual impulse?
Ramana: By rooting out the false idea of the body being the Self. There is no sex in the Self.
Question: How to realize it?
Ramana: Because you think you are the body, you see another also as a body. Difference in sex arises. But you are not the body. Be the real Self. Then there is no sex.

January 21, 1937

Question: How will the sexual impulse cease to be?
Ramana: when differentiation ceases.
Question: How can it be effected?
Ramana: The 'opposite' sex, and its relation, are only mental concepts. The Upanishad says that all are dear because the Self is beloved to all. One's happiness is within, the love is of the Self only. It is only within; do not think it to be without. Then differentiation ceases to operate.

October 15, 1938

A person was badly distracted by sexual thoughts. He fought against them. He fasted three days and prayed to god so that he might be free from such thoughts. Finally, he decided to ask Ramana about it.

Sri Ramana listened and remained silent for about two minutes, then he said: Well, the thoughts distract you and you fought against them. That is good. Why do you continue to think of them now? Whenever such thoughts arise, consider to whom they arise and they will flee away from you.

From TALKS with Ramana Maharshi.