Many people believe that tantra is not possible in same sex couples but the number of couples practicing gay tantra would indicate otherwise. Tantra is a Sanskrit word which means to expand, spread, weave, spin out and includes all matter, actions and thought. During Tantra the opposing flows of energy from each partner flow together or are woven together. It also refers to the personalities which are brought together through better understanding achieved in the process.
Many couples are drawn to tantra because it has a reputation for encouraging intimacy and prolonging and intensifying climax. These are not the only benefits. For the individual the process can help them come to terms with parts of their personality they were not comfortable with before. Tantra aims to help people develop spirituality, openness, shed fear and guilt and expand their boundaries to lead a more fulfilling life. Therefore it is a system of spiritual and personal development which utilizes the sexual energies.
Tantra refers to a body of theories which have been developed from original ideas from Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Many methods are included in the discipline. This means that tantric practice can be very different with different teachers.
Due to the focus on opposing polarities many believe that a man and woman are needed to practice tantra. However in many traditions this is not the case. In Buddhism it is thought that sexuality is a facet of personality and so is irrelevant in tantra. Some traditions focus on the use of Kundalini energy and believe this is the same in all persons. In gay tantra it is possible to use visualization techniques to imagine that one partner is of the opposite sex.
One of the more popular types of gay tantric yoga is a relatively new system called SkyDancer Tantra. It is based on an ancient system probably from Tibet but was developed by Margot Anand Naslednikoy in the Eighties. It is based on the concept of love being similar to a dance in the sky. The name comes from a colleague of a Buddha who was called Big Sky Dancer. Together they created Tantric Buddhism, whose followers were apparently passionate and entirely devoted to their spiritual work.
Meditation is a common practice in tantra. It aids relaxation, visualization and connection to the spiritual realms. Many people start with taking alternate breaths while sitting face to face. Yoga positions are often used and yoga is also popular due to its focus on breathing. Visualization is used in two ways; to imagine Deities and spiritual entities and also to visualize the transference of energy between the two bodies.
Another popular way to enjoy tantra is tantric massage. The aim of the therapy is to unblock energy flows just as in other forms of massage. However in tantric massage the therapist uses touch and pressure to build up sexual energy. Then the force of this energy is used to release pressure. This massage is not intended to cause climax but that is always a possibility and is viewed as acceptable.
For those who want to learn more about gay tantra there are many retreats, workshops and gurus available. It is easy to find details of these online. Increasing numbers of same sex couples and single gay people are starting to practice gay tantra. There are a range of methods but the main aim is personal development.
Many couples are drawn to tantra because it has a reputation for encouraging intimacy and prolonging and intensifying climax. These are not the only benefits. For the individual the process can help them come to terms with parts of their personality they were not comfortable with before. Tantra aims to help people develop spirituality, openness, shed fear and guilt and expand their boundaries to lead a more fulfilling life. Therefore it is a system of spiritual and personal development which utilizes the sexual energies.
Tantra refers to a body of theories which have been developed from original ideas from Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Many methods are included in the discipline. This means that tantric practice can be very different with different teachers.
Due to the focus on opposing polarities many believe that a man and woman are needed to practice tantra. However in many traditions this is not the case. In Buddhism it is thought that sexuality is a facet of personality and so is irrelevant in tantra. Some traditions focus on the use of Kundalini energy and believe this is the same in all persons. In gay tantra it is possible to use visualization techniques to imagine that one partner is of the opposite sex.
One of the more popular types of gay tantric yoga is a relatively new system called SkyDancer Tantra. It is based on an ancient system probably from Tibet but was developed by Margot Anand Naslednikoy in the Eighties. It is based on the concept of love being similar to a dance in the sky. The name comes from a colleague of a Buddha who was called Big Sky Dancer. Together they created Tantric Buddhism, whose followers were apparently passionate and entirely devoted to their spiritual work.
Meditation is a common practice in tantra. It aids relaxation, visualization and connection to the spiritual realms. Many people start with taking alternate breaths while sitting face to face. Yoga positions are often used and yoga is also popular due to its focus on breathing. Visualization is used in two ways; to imagine Deities and spiritual entities and also to visualize the transference of energy between the two bodies.
Another popular way to enjoy tantra is tantric massage. The aim of the therapy is to unblock energy flows just as in other forms of massage. However in tantric massage the therapist uses touch and pressure to build up sexual energy. Then the force of this energy is used to release pressure. This massage is not intended to cause climax but that is always a possibility and is viewed as acceptable.
For those who want to learn more about gay tantra there are many retreats, workshops and gurus available. It is easy to find details of these online. Increasing numbers of same sex couples and single gay people are starting to practice gay tantra. There are a range of methods but the main aim is personal development.
About the Author:
The author, Howie Holben, is the owner of Spirit Journeys, a gay vacations group that specializes in spiritual travel. Howie has travelled the world learning from indigenous peoples. You can find more about Howie, his work and gay tours with spirituality at Spirit Journeys website.
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