Compared to more widely known yoga practices, tantric yoga is increasingly about spiritual growth and a more enhanced connection between body and mind.
The yoga practice helps to give an individual a deeper understanding of themselves and help promote awareness of self-love.
Tantric yoga can also help achieve a feeling of acceptance and help an individual connect closer to their authentic self, which can also help with their relationships with others.
In this guide, we will look at what tantric yoga is, the different techniques that are used, and how to make the most out of tantric yoga practice.
What Is Tantric Yoga?
As another form of yoga practice, it helps to find out where tantric yoga originated from. Specifically, tantric yoga comes from Tibet, India, and several other areas of Asia.
This is a yoga practice that has an ancient and spiritual background and can be associated with tantric sex.
The tantric sex just forms part of tantra as the practice attempts to reach spiritual enlightenment by connection to your energy which is central to tantric yoga and how it is performed solo.
The origin of tantra goes back to Hindu, Tibetan, and Taoist traditions. However, the tantric practices that have remained to this day tend to be more Westernized.
The ethos of guiding an individual to a better, more self-aware version of themselves has remained.
Those who perform tantric yoga speak of how it gets them closer to understanding what yoga entails.
This can be seen as a form of moving meditation rather than a physical workout which some practices, such as hot yoga, excel in. In its traditional form, tantric yoga looks at internal connection as well as reflection.
The physical aspect of the yoga practice is still important yet centers on strength, and flexibility, while empowerment and self-knowledge are key too.
The Techniques In Tantric Yoga
You can perform tantric yoga yourself as it can be done solo though you can always share it with others.
Chair Pose
To improve your breathing and build up some heat in your core, try the Utkatasana. With your feet hip-width apart, inhale then move your arms above your head. Exhale and then draw your navel in towards your spine.
Bend your knees then sit back to mimic sitting in a chair where you can take between three and five breaths with some weight in your heels then return to standing and repeat up to seven times.
Corpse Pose
To relax, you really should try the Savasana pose. Lie down on your yoga mat, on your back, and separate your legs then allow the feet to fall out at the side.
Rest your arms next to your body and then tuck in your shoulder blades for increased back support. Take the time to relax and inhale deeply for a cleansing breath and remain in the pose for over five minutes.
Warrior I
Version one of the Virabhadrasana helps to open up the chest and build an individual’s confidence. Have your feet hip-width apart and step your right foot out so it is a few feet in front of your left foot.
Bend your right knee until it aligns with your heel and keep your leg straight. Face your left foot outward and your right foot forward, then squeeze the shoulder blades and lift your arms above your head.
Hold that pose for a good minute and then switch sides.
Mountain Pose
The Tadasana is great for establishing alignment and becoming aware of your body. Stand with your feet just about hip-width apart with your feet firmly planted on the floor.
Lift your kneecaps and engage your quads while keeping your spine aligned. Ensure you inhale deeply, then lift your ribs so they go away from your pelvis and complete 10 to 15 deep breaths.
How To Make The Most Of A Tantric Yoga Practice
The practice of tantric yoga can vary between individuals. The more you practice, the more you will become aware of what feels more comfortable but there are some basic steps towards a good flow.
Start by quietening your mind and concentrating on each breath to focus inward. Take the time to get comfortable with the room you are in and yourself in that room.
With each new session, set yourself a realistic goal so you can achieve some progression which is a good rule for all meditation and exercise.
As long as that goal is suitably realistic, it should be straightforward to keep yourself within your own limits. Stay in your comfort zone as excessive actions can lead to discomfort and even injury so stop if you feel pain.
Know when the practice is stepping outside of your comfort zone but lean into the practice as far as you can while enjoying every single breath as you stay in the moment.
Try not to pay too much attention to the others in the class as that can distract you from your own achievements.
Final Thoughts
When performed solo, tantric yoga can help promote an individual’s acceptance of themselves and help promote feelings of self-love. Poses such as the Chair Pose, Corpse Pose, Warrior I, and the Mountain Pose can be great for body awareness and alignment.
However, when performed in a couple, the practice of tantric yoga can be seen as highly sensual and helps bring souls, and a relationship, closer together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Aim Of Tantric Yoga?
Many meditative and yoga practices are tied together in tantric yoga but the aim remains consistent. If you want to achieve a deeper understanding of yourself and promote some acceptance and feelings of self-love then try tantric yoga.
What Is Understood By Tantra Yoga For Couples?
Tantric yoga can be performed solo but can build a connection with two people. The special practices are specially designed to build relationships and can be considered intimate and sensual yet should still be relaxing.
Simply being in the moment with a partner can enhance an attraction between souls and a relationship.
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The positive effect yoga had on me was indescribable. Every aspect of my life improved, from social to mental, physical to emotional.
I want my website to help more people get into the world of yoga and teach them how to be present for themselves - even if that’s just for a few minutes a day.
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