A brief history of tantra
Tantra is an ancient Hindu philosophy concerned with creating a pleasurable existence for the followers of the art. By exploring the physical and emotional pleasures possible one aims to achieve personal growth in multi-dimensional planes. A Tantrika believes that by creating taboos and ‘no-go’ areas in our lives, we deprive ourselves of valuable experiences.
Chinese Tao (the resolution of opposites, a way of natural harmony; of truth, beauty and justice) had a very closely related branch, with a largely medicinal emphasis through acupuncture, herbal medicine and Tai Chi. Sex was considered by the Chinese to be one of the main activities that influences our health and well-being on all our levels of existence, whether negatively or positively.
Both of these disciplines explored human sensuality and sexuality in great depth, and considered the subject to be core to achieving ‘completeness’. They discovered that our sensual side is not just something to be accepted as an integral part of us, but is in fact a gateway to what they believed to be our greatest resource for health and personal growth in harmony with our environment.
Hindu Tantrikas strived for spiritual enlightenment by harnessing their sexual energy, and Chinese doctors would suggest relevant sexual positions as well as a prescription of herbs. In their traditions, sensuality and sexuality were seen as central to their medicinal practice, requiring a focus not generally seen here in the West.