Gay Tantra Practices

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by: Howie Holben Total views: 5 Word Count: 565 Date: Tue, 11 May 2010 Time: 12:36 PM 0 comments

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.

Tantra is a system of personal and spiritual development. It is not just about prolonging orgasms or becoming more intimate with your partner although these are common benefits. Contrary to most spiritual traditions Tantra views sexual energy and lust as an integral part of human spirituality and a path to enlightenment. It also involves recognizing darker parts of the personality and integrating those and full sexual potential into the being. The aim of Tantra is to expand boundaries, accept ourselves and dispel guilt or fear and learn about our mystical selves.

The theories which are called tantra come from all over Asia and are built on ancient traditions from Hinduism and Buddhism. Therefore practices can vary a lot between 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.

Tantric Buddhism was created by a Buddha and his companion Big SkyDancer. The followers of this school of tantra were known for being particularly passionate and devoted to the spiritual path. It was developed by a Frenchwoman called Margot Anand Naslednikoy in the eighties. Her system, called Sky Dancer Tantra is now the most widespread type of gay tantric yoga. It is based on the concept of love as a dance in the sky.

Tantra includes a number of techniques. Yoga is included for the focus on body position and breathing. The visualization of magical powers and Gods is popular. Also visualization is used to strengthen the connection between the couple. For example they can imagine that they visualize the energy transferring from one to the other. Meditation is used in most tantra as the breathing patterns aid other techniques such as visualization. A common method is to have the couple take alternate breaths.

Tantric massage is another prevalent way to apply tantra. It is not intended to bring about climax but to release blockages of energy in the body. The masseuse builds up sexual energy in the body and then uses that to unblock the necessary areas.

Gay tantra is a growing practice among same sex couples and gay singles. It can encompass a range of techniques, practices and beliefs but the overall aim is spiritual development. There are many gurus and teachers throughout the world who run workshops and retreats and they are easily found online.



About the Author

Howie Holben facilitates Spirit Journeys, a gay vacations group that helps with spiritual vacations. Howie has travelled the world learning from indigenous peoples. Learn more about Howie, his work and a gay tours at Spirit Journeys website.


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