This article delves into the concept of tantric meditation, tantric meditation for beginners and how it can enhance spiritual practices. It also highlights the significant contribution of Osho to modern meditation through his unique approach to meditation techniques known as “OSHO Active Meditations.”
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What Is Tantric Meditation?
One of the central concepts of Tantric Meditation is the use of the chakras, which are energy centers across the body. In Tantric Meditation, the flow of energy is directed to activate and balance the chakras, promoting overall physical and spiritual health. The practice also involves the Kundalini Shakti, the dormant energy within the body, which is awakened through various Tantric techniques.
What sets Tantric Meditation apart from other forms of meditation is its focus on the spiritual experience during sexual encounters. Tantric Meditation sees sexual energy as a powerful force that can be harnessed and directed towards spiritual enlightenment. It involves techniques such as eye contact, breathing exercises, and meditation during sexual practices.
Tantric Meditation teaches different forms of meditation, including the use of fierce and female deities, antinomian and ascetic practices, and Hatha Yoga to reach spiritual enlightenment.
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Historical background of Tantric meditation
The historical background of tantric meditation can be traced back to the Indus Valley civilization, which existed around 3300 BCE. The principles of tantric meditation are believed to have been derived from the Vedas, the ancient Indian texts, which form the basis of the Hindu religion.
Tantric meditation is an amalgamation of two major streams of Indian thought- yoga and tantra. Yoga is a means to connect with the divine through physical and mental practices such as postures, breath control, and meditation. Tantra, on the other hand, is a spiritual practice that involves the use of sexual energy and sacred rituals to connect with the divine. The practice of tantric meditation is based on the belief that sexual energy is a vital force that can be harnessed and elevated to connect with the divine.
The origins of tantric meditation are shrouded in mystery, and there are different beliefs surrounding when it first appeared. Some scholars believe that tantric meditation emerged around the 5th and 6th centuries CE, during the rise of Buddhism in India. Others believe that it existed even earlier, dating back to the Vedic period. There are also claims that tantric meditation originated in ancient Egypt and old Islamic Sufism or Kabbalah Judaism, and has links to Christianity and Chinese Taoism.
Regardless of its exact origins, tantric principles are evident in other spiritual practices, even those outside of India. For example, the Kabbalah in Judaism and the concept of alchemy in Western esotericism both embody the idea of transforming the self and elevating consciousness. Similarly, the Chinese Taoist practice of Qigong incorporates the principles of breath control and energy flow, much like the practice of tantric meditation.
How does Tanric meditation differ from other forms of meditation?
Tantric meditation is a distinct form of meditation that distinguishes itself from other practices by utilizing energy and rituals. Whereas other forms of meditation prioritize relaxation and tranquility, tantric meditation seeks to utilize and direct energy in order to heighten one’s awareness.
The use of energy in tantric meditation provides practitioners with numerous benefits, including sexual healing, relief from anxiety and depression, increased self-awareness and confidence, and improved overall health. This energy flow is directed through specific energy centers in the body, known as chakras, which are stimulated and balanced through various tantric meditation techniques.
Through the use of sexuality and tantric practices, there are various rituals that are used to elevate the consciousness of the practitioner. This is done in several ways, including eye contact, controlled breathing, yoga postures, and mantras. These rituals are all designed to harness and direct this energy flow towards a higher purpose.
One form of tantric meditation is Vajrayana meditation, an esoteric form of Buddhism that seeks to accelerate the spiritual journey by using the body as a vessel for transformation. However, Vajrayana meditation is shunned by many Buddhists as it is often seen as transgressive and antinomian.
Benefits of tantric meditation
One of the key benefits of tantric meditation is that it promotes a deep sense of peace and groundedness. Regular practice helps to reduce stress and anxiety, allowing individuals to connect with their inner self and access a sense of calm and serenity.
In addition to promoting peace, tantric meditation also helps to raise one’s spiritual awareness. As energy is channeled through the chakras, individuals may experience a sense of connection to the divine, and a greater understanding of their place in the universe. This can lead to a heightened sense of purpose and clarity in one’s life.
Tantric meditation classes focus on channeling energy to all 7 chakras, from the root chakra at the base of the spine, up to the crown chakra at the top of the head. This helps to unblock and balance the energy centers within the body, allowing individuals to access their full potential and live a more authentic and fulfilling life.
An overview of the Tantric Meditation Colours and their meanings.
One aspect of tantric meditation that is often overlooked is the significance of colors.
1. Red Tantra
Red Tantra is a form of meditation that emphasizes the importance of sensuality, sexuality, and sexual energy. This practice can be performed alone or with a partner, with a focus on creating a deeper connection through sensual touches, eye contact, taste, smell, and other physical sensations. Through Red Tantra, individuals can explore the potential for spiritual growth and deeper intimacy with themselves and others.
In contrast to White Tantra, which aims to balance the energy centers of the body through breathwork and meditation, Red Tantra is rooted in the use of sexual energy as a transformative tool. While both forms of Tantra use sexual energy, the range of techniques used in Red Tantra is more diverse and focused on exploring the full range of pleasure and physical sensations.
It’s worth noting that there are also Neo-Tantric styles, such as Dark Tantra and Black Tantra, which do not relate to classical Tantra or incorporate practices like Tantric meditation. These styles are often associated with more transgressive or antinomian practices and are not considered part of the traditional Tantric path.
2. White Tantra
White Tantra is a traditional Tantric practice that focuses on promoting healing of the mind, body, and soul through meditation, yoga, and other spiritual practices. Unlike Red Tantra which involves sexual rituals performed with a partner, White Tantra is a solo practice that strives for self-enlightenment and conscious evolution.
The aim of White Tantra is to release deep subconscious blocks that prevent individuals from reaching their full potential by accessing the Kundalini energy located at the base of the spinal cord. This energy is said to be the source of our creative and spiritual power. By accessing and channeling this energy through the body’s energy centers, or chakras, White Tantra allows individuals to heal and overcome emotional, physical, or spiritual limitations.
White Tantra is a complex practice that requires a disciplined approach. It involves various techniques such as mantra chanting, pranayama (breathing exercises), asanas (poses), and meditation. The practice of White Tantra is centered on raising consciousness and seeking self-awareness.
While all forms of Tantra seek to connect with divine energy, White Tantra places a strong emphasis on self-enlightenment. It is a path that enables individuals to realize their true potential and connect with the universe on a deeper level.
3. Pink Tantra
Pink Tantra is a unique form of tantric meditation that combines both spiritual and sensual aspects to help individuals achieve a deeper connection with themselves and others. Unlike other forms of tantric meditation that mainly focus on sexual energy, Pink Tantra emphasizes self-love and body acceptance.
At its core, Pink Tantra encourages practitioners to explore their bodies and embrace sensuality in a non-sexual way. Through the use of various techniques such as eye contact, breathwork, and meditation, practitioners are encouraged to let go of any shame or negative feelings they may have towards their bodies and instead embrace them as a source of divine energy.
One of the main benefits of Pink Tantra is its emphasis on self-love. By learning to love and accept their bodies, individuals can become more confident and empowered in all areas of their lives. This can be especially beneficial for those who struggle with body confidence issues or have a history of body shame.
Furthermore, Pink Tantra can also be a powerful tool for couples looking to deepen their connection in a non-sexual way. Through shared practices such as partner yoga and meditation, couples can cultivate a deeper sense of intimacy and understanding, which can enhance their relationship both in and out of the bedroom.
In comparison to other forms of tantric meditation, Pink Tantra distinguishes itself through its focus on sensuality as opposed to solely sexual practices. While it is true that sexual energy is an integral part of Tantric practices, Pink Tantra acknowledges that sensuality can exist outside of sexual contexts as well. This makes it a particularly accessible form of meditation for individuals who may not be comfortable delving into more explicit forms of tantric practice.
4. Black Tantra
Black Tantra is a form of meditation that has gained notoriety for its association with dark magic. Unlike other forms of Tantra that focus on harnessing and channeling cosmic and divine energy, Black Tantra uses negative energy to cause harm to others. This concept is in stark opposition to the core philosophy of Tantra, which is all about spiritual practices that promote love, compassion, and self-improvement.
It is essential to point out that Black Tantra is not recommended for anyone to practice, as it involves the use of negative energy to cause harm to others. This is why it is often referred to as “dark magic.” This practice harnesses the energy of the practitioner’s lower chakras, which tends to have a darker, more destructive aura. As such, it can have severe consequences for both the practitioner and their intended targets.
It is believed that some practitioners of Black Tantra use their knowledge and skills to manipulate or harm others for personal gain or to gain power over them. Due to the negative consequences of this practice, it is important for anyone interested in exploring Tantra to avoid Black Tantra and to instead focus on other forms of meditation that use positive energy to promote healing and self-growth.
Tantric meditation for beginners
Fortunately, there are local groups and online classes available that can provide access to a guide or guru and make it easier for beginners to learn. Once a guide is found, beginners can start practicing Nyasa meditation, which is a specific type of tantric meditation that involves the visualization of golden energy moving through and filling different parts of the body.
During this meditation, one takes deep breaths and feels the divine light enter every cell of the body. This helps in unlocking the energy centers or chakras in the body. The focus is on the breath, visualization, and sensation of energy within the body.
Nyasa meditation differs from other forms of meditation as it adds the concept of visualization, which helps to channel the energy in a particular direction. This type of meditation allows the practitioner to connect with the divine in a profound way and helps to unlock the potential of human consciousness.
Learn tantric meditation for beginners with these steps:
1. Find a quiet and comfortable location to practice tantric meditation.
2. Sit in a comfortable posture, such as lotus or half-lotus position.
3. Take deep breaths and try to clear your mind of any distractions or thoughts.
4. Visualize a bright light or energy entering the top of your head and flowing down through your body.
5. Focus on your breath and try to synchronize it with your visualization.
6. Engage in “nadi shodhan” or alternate nostril breathing to balance the flow of energy in your body.
7. Incorporate mantras or chants to deepen your meditation and connect with the divine.
8. End your meditation by gradually returning to everyday awareness and taking note of any insights or experiences you may have had.
Best books about tantric meditation
If you are interested in learning more about tantric meditation, there are several books out there that can act as a guide on your journey. These books delve into the history of Tantra and tantric meditation, the metaphorical significance of chakras, and the different techniques of this spiritual practice. Here are some of the best books about tantric meditation:
“The Complete Guide to Tantric Sex,” by Mark A. Michaels and Patricia Johnson, is an excellent book that teaches the basics of tantric meditation and its relation to sex. The book explores the different techniques of tantric meditation, the importance of eye contact, and how sexual energy can be harnessed for spiritual purposes.
“Tantra: The Path of Ecstasy,” by Georg Feuerstein, is a comprehensive book about the history of tantra and the various forms of meditation associated with it. The book explores the different forms of tantric meditation and their relation to chakras, shaktis, and other spiritual practices.
“The Heart of Tantric Sex,” by Diana Richardson, takes a more hands-on approach to tantric meditation and sex. The book provides a step-by-step guide to different tantric techniques and how they can be used in your everyday life to enhance your spiritual and sexual well-being.
“Kundalini Tantra,” by Swami Satyananda Saraswati, explores the symbolism behind the different chakras and how they relate to the practice of tantric meditation. The book is an excellent guide for those who wish to deepen their understanding of the spiritual significance of chakras and the role they play in the practice of tantric meditation.
“The Great Book of Tantra,” by Indra Sinha, is a comprehensive guide to all things tantra and tantric meditation. The book explores the history and significance of tantra in South India and medieval India, as well as the different forms of tantric meditation associated with Hindu tantra, Śaiva tantra, and Osho tantra. The book also delves into the various female and fierce deities associated with tantras and their significance in the practice of tantric meditation.
Tantric meditation is an ancient practice that harnesses sexual and divine energy for spiritual growth and heightened awareness. It is a form of meditation that distinguishes itself from other practices by its focus on energy centers, particularly the root and crown chakras, and its connection to sexual practices.
There are numerous benefits to practicing tantric meditation, including increased intimacy and connection in relationships, heightened pleasure and sensation during sexual experiences, and deeper spiritual growth. However, it is important to seek out a qualified teacher and approach the practice with caution, particularly when exploring more advanced tantric techniques.
Overall, tantric meditation offers a unique and powerful approach to meditation that can be transformative for those who are open to it. As with any spiritual practice, it is essential to approach it with respect and discernment, seeking guidance from experienced practitioners and honoring your own personal boundaries and limitations.
