Everything you want to know about tantra
The Netherlands is captivated by tantra. Or rather, the Netherlands is particularly captivated by what happens in the spiritual temple of Walter's B&B in the French Troche. It got me thinking: I actually don't know what tantra is, except that I weekly watch a very uncomfortable scene that makes me very sorry that you can't just remove images from your retina. In the category of ‘you're never too old to learn’, I dove into all the ins and outs of tantra so we don't have to ask Walter. Ready? Here it comes.
What is tantra?
The word tantra literally means ‘the instrument to expand consciousness and achieve self-realization’. It also reminds us that everything in the universe is interconnected. According to tantra, it is important to treat your body as a temple and to enjoy your life to the fullest. This means taking care of yourself through various exercises. You can practice tantra through the things you eat, the way you move your body, and how you interact with others. It is therefore a misconception that tantra is only about sex, but you can certainly apply it in the bedroom as well. In that case, tantra is all about the union of two souls and, don’t shoot the messenger, still not about actually having sex. It is more about the preparation for sex. This means awakening your senses by meditating together, looking deeply into each other's eyes, and connecting on a soul level. Additionally, everyday actions such as dancing, playing (he had a bit of a point, that Walt), and writing can also be practiced as tantra. Everything done with attention and gratitude can be considered a form of tantra.
The effects of tantra
Once you have mastered this, tantra can bring you a lot. It offers you a sense of joy, space, and liberation and can truly contribute to your mental health. You will soon notice the following effects after starting to practice tantra:
1. Increased awareness
Tantra encourages awareness and presence in the moment. Through focused attention and meditation, you can develop increased awareness, which can lead to a deeper understanding of yourself and your surroundings.
2. Connection and intimacy
Tantra emphasizes connection. Not only with others but also with your own body, emotions, and mind. This can lead to improved relationships and a deeper experience of intimacy.
3. Body awareness
Tantra enhances body awareness through attentive exploration of sensations. What do you feel? By listening to this without judgment, it leads to a deeper sense of well-being and relaxation by recognizing and responding to body signals.
4. Sexual awareness
Tantra encompasses more than sex, but integrating tantric principles in the bedroom promotes a deeper understanding of sexual energy, emotional connection, and pleasure. You can do this alone, but also with a partner.
5. Mindfulness
Tantra stimulates mindfulness and relaxation by being consciously present in the moment. This results in stress reduction, inner calm, and an enriched experience of the present moment.
How to practice it
Tantra exercises all involve the same principle: being consciously present in the now. You can do this by paying attention to your breathing and body sensations, or you can start with meditation to increase your concentration and inner peace. Explore your body, enjoy daily experiences more intensely, show deep empathy in interactions, and build intimate connections with yourself and others. To enhance your sexual awareness, ensure conscious presence during intimate moments and understand the energy between you and your partner. Tantra is all about awareness, connection, and spiritual growth while embracing everyday life and intimate moments with everything you have.
Sources: The Conscious Club, Inspiring Life
