What is Tantra ?

[Patryc]

Hi guys,

found this in my readings, found it a nice definition of tantra.

A simple question without a simple answer, and any attempt at
definition will necessarily be incomplete. The roots of the word are
Sanskrit:
Tan - thread, web, stretch, weave, spread or expand, and
Tra - tool or instrument.
Tantra - tool for expansion or a weaving.
Through tantric practice one can experience an expansion of
consciousness and recognize the interconnectedness of the web of
existence.

At the same time, "Tantra" can refer to any of a number of sacred
texts in the Hindu and Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Many of
these texts contain detailed guidelines for spiritual practice. From
this perspective, Tantra is a vast body of spiritual and physical
knowledge, encompassing an array of practices, including many forms of
yoga. These practices are aimed at expanding consciousness and
liberating oneself "through life and not through escape, using the
body as an instrument". In Tantra, the energies of the body are used
as the fuel for spiritual development.

In the West, Tantra is often called the "Yoga of Sex". While there is
a kernel of truth in this phrase, the popular press has created a
misleading impression that Tantra is about having better orgasms or
about becoming a better lover. Since tantric practices are designed
to expand consciousness, they can expand a person's capacity to give,
receive and experience pleasure, not only in the sexual realm but in
all areas of life, provided that person is willing to do the work. It
is important to be aware that Tantra is not an easy path; it is "the
way of the hero who neither rejects nor fears any aspect of life".

Many Western Tantra teachers emphasize very powerful techniques for
enhancing sexual pleasure and intimacy, while some traditional
teachers discourage students from exploring sexual Tantra at all.
(Both approaches are incorrect, and are not scripturally based.)

[sshenry]

Excellent info Patryc, thank you!

[Patryc]

enjoy

[indigoglow4u]

These practices are aimed at expanding consciousness and
liberating oneself "through life and not through escape, using the
body as an instrument". In Tantra, the energies of the body are used
as the fuel for spiritual development.
.

This sounds so exciting...
*tingles of delight*
spirit glowing already


Thanks Patryc.

[Calibas]

Come on over to my place and I'll show you what tantra's all about.

Love,
Will

[indigoglow4u]

...this sounds like a more expanded meaning of the predefined word... hmmm???

sounds interesting though ...
My already confused energies would probably just get more confused...again...and short circuit and zap out...

ew..ew.. get fatigued just thinking of it.

footnote:
Tantra has always reminded me of a 'tantram'...that lose of physical 'control' some children have.

[sshenry]

Some more on the subject - fascinating reading

http://newfrontier.com/nepal/nik_douglas.htm

[Patryc]

thanks SS

[TheRavenMother]

sex

[TheRavenMother]

always wanted to try tantric sex

[UntoldGlory]

Very nice. If I had learned about Tantra sooner, I might have pursued a career as a Tantric priest. Evangelical preachers haven't gotten much action since Jimmy Swaggart got caught with a dog collar around his neck

[sshenry]

*grins*

[indigoglow4u]

Some more on the subject - fascinating reading

http://newfrontier.com/nepal/nik_douglas.htm

thanks for the link.. it helps create a bigger picture..

this still sound pretty wild and awesome too...hmmm.. who knew???

[indigoglow4u]

it isnt trying it,,,,its an aquirement of a skill between two partners..
lot of practice..

date sex will never thrill you...agian
this kind of sex will be the things that make you grin when you are old

This sounds like a ballet... a dance .. the intimate melding of two spirits and souls with the ultimate of physical and sensual pleasure.
Always kinda knew this did exist...
Just never saw it in writing before...
Tantra....cool now I know...
Thanks Patryc for this thread.

[sshenry]

Eh - but if I'm not mistaken, Tantra isn't just about sex - it is about the channeling of all physical energies for spiritual advancement. Tantric sex is just one aspect of Tantra. A great aspect mind you, but just one facet of the diamond.

[Patryc]

Eh - but if I'm not mistaken, Tantra isn't just about sex - it is about the channeling of all physical energies for spiritual advancement. Tantric sex is just one aspect of Tantra. A great aspect mind you, but just one facet of the diamond.

too true - many of the Tibetan books are written on Tantra, more there than anywhere else in the world. Unfortunately many are not translated to English so they can not be shared with the masses.

[sshenry]

Shows you what we're obsessed with, eh?

[Patryc]

lol - well most of those books are about the spiritual aspects of Tantra - I don't know what you are referring to as we - that was a rather general statement

[sshenry]

Okay, western society as a whole, those who automatically interpret "Tantra" as a sexual topic.

Wasn't aimed at you luv

[Patryc]

hehe yer I know just thought u should clear that up