Beginning in India nearly 6,000 years ago, the art of Tantra emerged as a way to express rebellion against organized religion, wherein it was taught that sexuality should be rejected to obtain spiritual enlightenment. The word Tantra literally translates to mean “to manifest, to show, to expand.” In terms of sex, Tantra is said to expand one’s consciousness by connecting the opposites of male and female into a single harmonious being. Many believe that, aside from gaining a higher sense of enlightenment and revitalized sexual energy levels, one can improve their overall health through the practice of Tantra. Backed by M.D.’s, studies show that since the art of tantra aims to prolong sexual activity, it also lowers stress hormones and releases large amounts of serotonin (AKA the “happiness hormone”) into the body, which naturally produces a feeling of contentment and well being. Aside from the usual happiness serotonin produces, it also regulates mood (hence the happiness), sleep, appetite, and more. As if this is not enough evidence to prove that tantra can be beneficial not only to your sex life and your overall well being, but it is also said to deepen the connection and intimate bond between partners, thereby creating happier, more fulfilled relationships. If that’s not enough to convince you, many claim Tantric practices leave them full of energy. Now, who doesn’t want more of that?!

New to Tantra?

Try these Techniques!

• Create an Intimate Atmosphere: Establish a place in which to practice tantra with your partner, whether it’s your bedroom or another room in your home. Be sure to make this room comfortable and cozy including candles, flowers with a nice scent or incense, soft sheets and lots of pillows and perhaps some relaxing music to set the mood.
• Breathing Techniques: Tantra practices advice beginners to begin by having one partner sit on their partner’s lap, facing one another, and work on synchronizing their breathing. Some believe breathing in at the same time and out at the same time is better while others advice one partner to breathe in while the other exhales and so on. My advice: See what works for you and go with that.
• Slow, Drawn Out Foreplay: I know, I know, it’s not everyone’s favorite thing to do, especially if you’re looking for the end result, but in terms of tantric sex, the end result should not be the focus. In fact, enjoying the ride and prolonging the experience are definitely the focus. In fact, foreplay allows for tension and sensations to build more slowly, prolonging the experience on a whole for both parties.

• Eyes Wide Open: Yes, it is what you think it is. You know how everyone usually kisses with their eyes closed? Not in Tantra. In tantric sex, the goal is to connect with your partner on a deeper level and this is emphasized by looking into the eyes of one another throughout the experience. It may weird you out in the beginning, but a few glances here and there should suffice if you’re uncomfortable. Remember to accept your partner with open arms and no judgment; seeing them and being seen can be difficult, but facilitated by creating a relaxed and open environment and attitude.

Good Luck!