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Tantra, a Sanskrit word means to weave, expand, spread or connect. In gay tantra the couple aims to use their opposing flows of energy to reach a deeper connection and level of spirituality. Although many people believe the process is not possible for same sex couples, the increasing numbers of people getting involved shows otherwise. The appeal for many couples is the opportunity provided to become closer and obtain a more complete understanding of their personalities.
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.
Tantra refers to a body of theories which have been developed from original ideas from Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Many methods are included in the discipline. This means that tantric practice can be very different with different teachers.
Due to the focus on opposing polarities many believe that the opposite sexes are needed for Tantra and gay tantra is impossible. However in traditions which focus on the Kundalini model of energy flows this is not the case. In Tantra using Kundalini the rising energy is viewed as being the same in all persons, whatever their sexual persuasion or gender. Other traditions use visualization to solve the problem in gay Tantra. One of the partners assumes a role and visualizes themselves as being of the opposite gender and the partners use their minds to direct the energy. In Buddhist Tantra human sexual experience is beyond sexual preferences which are seen as a part of the personality.
SkyDancer Tantra is the most widely practiced technique in gay tantra. It is a relatively new system having been developed in the eighties by Margot Anand Naslednikoy. It was developed in France and quickly spread through the western hemisphere. She based the method on the concept of love as a dance in the sky. It was developed from the ideas of Buddhist Tantra and the name comes from one of the founders of that tradition called Big SkyDancer.
Meditation is a common practice in tantra. It aids relaxation, visualization and connection to the spiritual realms. Many people start with taking alternate breaths while sitting face to face. Yoga positions are often used and yoga is also popular due to its focus on breathing. Visualization is used in two ways; to imagine Deities and spiritual entities and also to visualize the transference of energy between the two bodies.
Another popular way to enjoy tantra is tantric massage. The aim of the therapy is to unblock energy flows just as in other forms of massage. However in tantric massage the therapist uses touch and pressure to build up sexual energy. Then the force of this energy is used to release pressure. This massage is not intended to cause climax but that is always a possibility and is viewed as acceptable.
There are a range of methods of gay tantra all with the aim of developing the individual through strengthening partnership bonds, self awareness and spiritual growth. It is easy to find retreats and workshops online as the discipline grows in popularity.
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