Tantra is an often debated term in the western world. It has become a term for a whole host of practices that originate from many different traditions, historically and geographically. Tantra, in its classical and documented form is understood to have begun during the Vedic period. The roots of Hinduism stem from the Vedic era, but Tantric practices have been documented and are historically significant in many periods of history and throughout many spiritual bodies.
One of the foundational guidelines for Tantric philosophy and practice is embracing the whole person-including worldly desires rather than eschewing the material plane. While sex and sensuality are an important facet of worldly desires, and of Tantric practice, they are only one small piece.
What we are most familiar with here in the western world is Neo-Tantra, an adaptation and adoption of certain practices that make up part of the gigantic body of philosophy that is Tantra. Neo-Tantra is far more focused on the sexual and sensual aspects of Tantric teachings than Eastern Tantra, and it simplifies some of the more esoteric practices to integrate them into the west.
A graceful and simple way of expressing the general philosophy of Neo-Tantra is that it is to invoke pure love in every facet of being. It goes far beyond sex and sensuality, rather it is an infusion of sensuality and openness into every moment. Tantra invites us to leave behind expectation and need, and be fulfilled right here, right now.
I choose to approach Tantra from a holistic, respectful and culturally transparent place. The use of the term Tantra as a euphemism for emobied sexuality alone is problematic, but unfortunately there isn’t something to replace it. (Cogno-sexuality is my proposal.) So, I use the word, because people know what it means, and a general sense of what I offer. What I offer is not a course in Tantric religion or philosophy, but a demystification of some of the practices that inspire that often misused term. My approach developed over years of practice and the study of human sexuality, sexual health, healing, bodywork, yoga, BDSM, non-violent communication, world religions and forgiveness. It is of my own devising, and is an introduction to a series of sensual, healing and erotic practices to transform your life and your relationships.
I am grateful for the lessons of this long tradition, and all those who came before