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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.
Many couples are drawn to tantra because it has a reputation for encouraging intimacy and prolonging and intensifying climax. These are not the only benefits. For the individual the process can help them come to terms with parts of their personality they were not comfortable with before. Tantra aims to help people develop spirituality, openness, shed fear and guilt and expand their boundaries to lead a more fulfilling life. Therefore it is a system of spiritual and personal development which utilizes the sexual energies.
The history of Tantra encompasses theories and traditions from all over Asia. These have absorbed ideas from Hinduism and Buddhism. For this reason teachers of Tantra can vary significantly in their practices.
Some traditions of tantra assert that the practice is not possible for same sex couples because the opposing male and female energies are needed. However there are several schools which include gay tantra. Techniques which use the theories of Kundalini energy flows are possible for same sex couples. This is because in Kundalini the rising energy flows are the same in all people regardless of sexual preference or gender. Some traditions use a lot of visualization in their processes. In these cases partners can imagine themselves as being of different sexes when guiding the flows of energy. Sexual preference is viewed as a personality trait in Buddhism and is therefore unimportant in the context of tantra.
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 tantra. It is based on the concept of love as a dance in the sky.
Most tantric practice involves meditation. Breathing is a vital part of the process with techniques involving alternating breaths between partners. Visualization is another common method which has many aspects. It is possible to visualize deities or other magical powers or processes between the two bodies such as movement of energy. Yoga is used to maintain positions and for its meditative properties and focus on breathing.
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.
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