Tantra The Science Of Self-Exploration
We feel it is unfortunate that such a rich and complex tradition has been reduced to such a banal and simple stereotype. At the same time, we were drawn to Tantra because of its sexual aspects, and we are convinced that consciously exploring sexuality is a rich and meaningful path. It can function as a gateway into an experience or way of being in the world that may be more truly described as Tantric. Thus, we hope to strike a balance between the rigorous and uncompromising view of the many modern scholars and traditionalists who dismiss ”New Age” Tantrism with scorn, and popularizers, who preach the gospel of Tantric Sex, yet have virtually no familiarity with its history and, moreover, have not been initiated into a traditional lineage.
It may be clear by now that Tantra is a confusing and even paradoxical subject, and with that in mind, we offer the following, in hopes that it will give you some new ways of thinking about the meaning of the word Tantra.
Tantra is an ancient tradition that recognizes sexual energy as a source of personal and spiritual empowerment. This sets it apart from most Western traditions and helps explain why most Westerners have reduced it to its sexual elements alone.
Tantra is the magic of transforming one’s consciousness and thereby transforming one’s entire being. Your body is the most powerful tool for bringing about this transformation.
Tantra is a spiritual science. Tantric techniques have been tested and have proven effective for many centuries. If you practice diligently, you will experience results.
Tantra can be quite simple. Everyone has had Tantric experiences; it is not always so simple to notice them.
Tantra can be embraced in whole or in part. A few simple practices can often produce profound results.
Tantra is goalless, unless exploring and expanding consciousness can be called a goal. Goal orientation is one of the biggest obstacles faced by the aspiring Tantrika; abandoning specific goals and focusing on what you are doing in the moment, with as much awareness as you can muster, are the keys to effective practice.
Tantra is a way of life. The Tantric approach to exploring your own consciousness is an ever-evolving process of discovery that emerges from daily practice.
Tantra can provide you with the means to deepen your sense of connection to yourself, to your partner, to all that is.
Tantra includes practices, which, while often simple, can lead to the experience of extraordinary ecstasy.
Tantra is a technology of mind and body that will lead you to know yourself deeply.
Tantra is for people of ”heroic” temperament, already presumably healthy. Anyone interested in practicing Tantra should have done considerable work on him/herself before beginning on the path. Traditionally, this type of work often included many years of yogic study and practice; for Westerners, psychotherapy may be the best form of preparation for serious Tantric study, since it provides the student with many of the necessary tools for the self-exploration that is such a central part of Tantra. Our teacher, Dr. Jonn Mumford has written: ”In the West, we have a particular type of Yoga called psychotherapy; it is one of the most valuable heritages that Western civilization has produced.” He goes on to observe that anyone with a serious interest in Yoga must experience psychotherapy. The same applies to Tantra, but we feel it is important not to blend the two, since the approaches are so radically different.