| What is Tantra?
The word itself has multiple meanings. From the Hindu side of the equation, I've heard it means "To Weave," from the Tibetan side I've heard it means "Method" or "Technique."
So if we combine these two definitions, we have "To weave together techniques." And notice that we have arrived at the definition, by combining elements from different cultures, which is tantric in itself.
In a more general sense, you could say that it is a whole family of modalities whose goal is the awakening and invigorating of the higher energies within the body. Taken in this way, it includes all of Yoga, as well as symbol gazing, mantra repetition and meditation.
In Tibet, Tantra refers to the entire higher secret side of the Buddhist teachings and practices.
In Boston, it refers to a nightclub.
In short, the definition has become so broad and diffuse that it is almost meaningless.
So, we give up on precision, and shoot for the pragmatic.
Speaking in broad terms, there are two polar ends to Tantra: Red and White. White tantra focuses exclusively on moving the body energy, mostly through breath and posture. Red tantra is sexual in nature, and mostly involves itself with partner practice. Kundalini Yoga is on the White end of the spectrum. The work of Charles Muir and Margot Anand is on the Red end.
This division between Red and White tantra has a corollary in the Left Handed Path, and the Right Handed Path. The Right is associated with asceticism, and discipline. The Left with the ecstatic pursuits. Personally, I think you should use both your hands. They work together, not against each other. It is good to be able to deny yourself pleasure, and to have discipline to asses your position, and take steps forward, even if they are unpleasant. However, your true direction is towards bliss. We can use our desire for pleasure and bliss to pull us forward. It is perhaps like giving a cat a pill wrapped in cheese. The cat eats the pill because it wants pleasure, but it gets the benefit of the medicine.
The tantra that I will be presenting in class is based on the work of Bodhi Avinasha and Sunyata Saraswati, as systemized by Tantrika International. It is roughly in the middle of the spectrum. Since I am presenting introductory material, most of what we will be working with applies to individual practice, however farther along in the path you will encounter partner practices as well.
We will be working with breath, symbol gazing, posture, movement and meditation. The aim of these practices is to clear blockages in the energetic system, and ultimately to allow for the awakening of the Kundalini.
|
