6 Things You May Not Know About Tantra

What comes to most of our minds when "Tantra" is mentioned is mind-blowing, never-ending orgasms. That is definitely one of the objectives for today's busy couple. (Think: breathing exercises that bring you closer in around an hour.) We sometimes forget that Tantra is also a religious and meditation ritual. Well, our favorite Sacred and Sensual Teachers are here to offer their extensive knowledgeable on Tantra. Drs. Janelle Alex and Rob Alex offer insight for those wanting deeper insight into this sacred practice.

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When you hear the word “Tantra” you very likely are going to think about learning different ways to enhance your sex life. Holy cow, if you practice Tantra with your lover, the two of you are going to have orgasms out of this world! Maybe, maybe not.

Yes, there are great breathing techniques, special positions, hand positions (mudras) and special ceremonies to enhance your sex life and your orgasms, but that is not what Tantra is all about. If you open your heart and your soul, you will find that Tantric practices are just one way to help you gain access to the Divine; a higher purpose. So, here are six things you very likely did not know about this ancient practice and its true functions.

#1 It's about better sex -- and much more!

The original goal of practicing the Tantric principals was to achieve spiritual growth and self-realization. The main purpose is transcendence and enlightenment. Hinduism and Buddhism teaches that attaining enlightenment is what will break samsara (the continual cycle of birth, death, rebirth – a constant wandering – a continual journey of searching). Therefore, Tantric practices, which include sexual practices, are a path to enlightenment – a path to break the perpetual cycle.

#2 It's a blend of masculine and feminine energy

We all have masculine and feminine energy within each of us no matter what our physical sex is. Therefore, blending the masculine and feminine within a physically intimate encounter does not necessarily have to be a heterosexual experience.

In Tantra, Shiva and Shakti represent the masculine and the feminine and the merging of the two within each of us individually as well within our loving relationships. This blending is an attempt to reach bliss and a connection to Self. Sexual activities are only one piece of this blending.

#3 The body is energy

The body is not simply a conduit for the flow of energy, but is actually energy itself. Down to your tiniest cell, your teensiest neuron, you are actually energy. Tantra has, what I consider, a metaphysical view in regards to energy and the body. The belief is that energy has consciousness and therefore, the body (all of the body) has consciousness as well. The body and the mind are not separate pieces, but are integrated aspects of the whole.

#4 Tantra integrates spirit and desire

The body is to be honored and adored. It is not, as some traditions teach, a sinful aspect of life and it is not a distraction from spiritual development. It actually offers a doorway, a portal, to access the Divine. Lovemaking is not the only way the body can open a portal, but it is one way. Tantra suggests that lovemaking truly is the playfulness and adjusted experience of bliss as a couple enjoy blending the masculine and the feminine. Your desires, your love, and your spiritual life should be integrated – not held with a great degree of separation.
 
#5 Tantric practitioners believe in deities

It is believed that during meditation and other tantric practices, including sexual activities, that the practitioners can feel deities near them. These particular Gods and Goddesses are still moving along their spiritual path as well. Even though they are not yet ascended masters (those who have achieved self-realization/become enlightened and are serving humanity) they are a gateway to the original creative source.

#6 Tantra creates a safe and sacred space

Creating a safe and sacred space, such as a sacred circle, and requesting friendship and protection from beings in the subtle dimension (similar to Earth, but more ethereal) is important within Tantric practices. There are unpleasant beings within that dimension and it is important to request only light beings surround you and to request their protection.

We're so excited to get a couple writing for GetLusty! They're both adorable, smart and altogether wonderful!

Dr. Janelle Alex, Ph.D. and Rob Alex, M.Sc. are writers, counselors as well as Sacred and Sensual Teachers. They recently completed an eBook on "Sexy Challenges: Sacret and Sensual Experiences for Lovers" which is on sale at Amazon! Learn more about them on Sexy Challenges.

You have read this article body issues / Communication / emotional / energy / erotic / for couples / fun / marriage / religious sex / sexual adventures / stronger relationship / tantra with the title energy. You can bookmark this page URL https://jadejurgensen.blogspot.com/2012/11/6-things-you-may-not-know-about-tantra.html. Thanks!

5 Sex Benefits of Getting More Sleep

It's not a myth that the more sleep you get, the better you feel. We have already found that sex leads to a better nights sleep. Six to seven hours of sleep a night will leave you feeling refreshed, recharged, and ready to conquer the day. Little to no sleep feels like a horrid hangover and your day will never reach its full potential. Getting sleep isn't just important for your health though. The more sleep you get, the better sex you will have. Take care of your sexual health by simply closing your eyes! GetLusty's Lora Swarts reports on the 5 sex benefits of getting more sleep.

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#1 Increased libido  

More sleep means more energy. When we get a good nights sleep, our bodies are physically and mentally healthier. Your sex drive will sky rocket when you allow yourself six or more hours of sleep a night. Exhaustion can trigger low sex drive and desire. Anxiety, stress and worry are also linked to less desire for men and women. Women's sexual drive is a result of emotions and physical factors. Because sleep helps us regulate our emotions, it's no surprise that more sleep equals more desire. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule to increase your libido and sexual health.

#2 Last longer 

Do you limit your sexual encounters to quickies because of exhaustion? Well, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and nighttime routine can lead to lasting longer. If you are too tired, or have to wake up early the next day, have sex earlier in the day so you don't have to choose between sex and sleep.

#3 Higher testosterone 

According to a study printed in The Journal of the American Medical Association, 15% of working adults in the U.S. get less than 5 hours of sleep each night. The study revealed a reduction in testosterone levels. The loss was comparable to aging 10 to 15 years. Since testosterone is a leading sex hormone in men, you need to keep your testosterone levels high to keep some vibrancy in your sex life. It's recommended to have 6 to 8 hours of non-interrupted sleep. If you're not falling into REM sleep during those 6 to 8 hours, then you're not getting a healthy amount of sleep.


#4 More sexual energy

According to the National Sleep Foundation, 26 percent of persons complain about a lackluster sex life because they are too tired. When we are tired, our sexual energy drops. So gaining a little bit of sleep each night can help curb low energy. The more rested you are, the more sexual energy you will have for foreplay and trying out new sexual positions. Who needs caffeine when more sleep is the simple cure for a more adventurous and energetic sex life?

#5 Healthier sexual well being 
 More sleep can lead to a healthier weight, better memory, lower stress levels, curb depression, and an overall healthy body and mind. Being at a healthier weight, having the energy to workout, and feeling emotionally balanced can all lead to better sex.

Feeling good on the inside leads to feeling better on the outside. When we are more confident in ourselves and our lives, we will want to have more sex. Don't forget to sleep well tonight and maybe schedule sex after a long night's sleep?



Lora is a GetLusty for Couples staff writer and resident health nut. When she is not writing, you can find her on her yoga mat, exploring Chicago via bicycle, or hanging out with her wonderful boyfriend in their north side apartment. She has a habit of spending too much money on soy lattes and yoga clothes. Have any questions? Email her at Lora@GetLusty.com!

You have read this article better sex / energy / health / libido / sleep / stamina / testosterone with the title energy. You can bookmark this page URL https://jadejurgensen.blogspot.com/2012/11/5-sex-benefits-of-getting-more-sleep.html. Thanks!