Tantra yoga is not a concept that has been clearly grasped by a majority of people. It is definitely not a series of sexual gymnastics, which is what the most common understanding of tantra yoga seems to be. It is difficult to describe this very important aspect of ancient tantra in laymen terms, but essentially it is a more spiritual version of kundalini yoga.
One significant difference between tantra yoga and kundalini yoga would be that the poses and techniques are usually performed by two partners who share or wish to share a deep emotional/spiritual connection. In kundalini yoga, these are performed solo, and for reasons of personal development rather than the development of a relationship or bond.
The basis of tantra yoga remains firmly rooted in the ancient Indian and Tibetan traditions. What is special about it is that, when learned and practiced under a qualified tantra master, it has the power to strengthen relationships and our connection with ourselves, each other and the universe.
It cannot be over-emphasized that tantra in any of its various manifestations does not focus solely on sex. While it does have the power to increase sexual intimacy, erotic pleasure and one's overall wellness quotient, the fundamental objective of tantra is to deepen the spiritual aspects of our relationships.
The ancient scriptures pertaining to yoga teach us that the spine is the seat of all our energy. By learning and practicing tantra yoga under the auspices of an experienced tantra teacher, you can learn how to strengthen and harness this energy and direct its flow to. Among other things, this will help you achieve your deepest sexual and spiritual objectives.
In a way, sexual intercourse could be seen as the ultimate tantra yoga technique, but it is not only about coitus. When practicing tantra yoga postures, partners maintain eye contact with each other and also maintain physical contact in many ways. In the process, they will have an opportunity to explore their own hang-ups and spiritual blockages towards that intimacy.
For instance, in the sacred embrace technique, the partners face each other without actual physical contact, practice tantra breathing with shut eyes and then open their eyes to gaze reverently and wordlessly at each other. The next step involves wrapping each other in a close embrace with the heads on each others' shoulders, staying in this pose for a prolonged moment. Invariably, most initiates will soon find themselves wishing to break the embrace.
At this point, their tantra master will train them to ask themselves what the reason for this is. These reasons are then explored and overcome with the practice of more advanced tantra yoga techniques and instructions, until the blockages are vanquished and greater intimacy is achieved.
Acharya Subhojit Dasgupta is a subhojitdasgupta.com Tantra Teacher with an in-depth knowledge of traditional Indian sciences and Sanskrit literature. Visit his tantrasadhana.com tantra online guide for Tantra Lessons, kriyas and mudras from this young Tantra Master.
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