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  • What is Tantric Yoga?

    March 03, 2022 3 min read

    If you’re from the Western hemisphere, thinking about anything tantric may bring to mind sex and sensuality. You might be surprised to learn that, traditionally, tantra is more about spirituality than intimate yoga sequences with a partner.

    What is tantric yoga?

    The most common definition of the word tantra is “to weave.” A second definition is “scripture,” which makes reference to the spiritual texts that are the base of tantric yoga.

    A traditional tantric yoga practice brings together various elements to weave a connection between your body’s energy and the Divine. It awakens the chakras, clears energetic pathways and allows you to explore different states of consciousness. The ultimate goal of tantric yoga is to reach a state of bliss through spiritual enlightenment and a sense of connection with the Universe.

    If you’re from the Western hemisphere, thinking about anything tantric may bring to mind sex and sensuality. You might be surprised to learn that, traditionally, tantra is more about spirituality than intimate yoga sequences with a partner.

    What is tantric yoga?

    The most common definition of the word tantra is “to weave.” A second definition is “scripture,” which makes reference to the spiritual texts that are the base of tantric yoga.

    A traditional tantric yoga practice brings together various elements to weave a connection between your body’s energy and the Divine. It awakens the chakras, clears energetic pathways and allows you to explore different states of consciousness. The ultimate goal of tantric yoga is to reach a state of bliss through spiritual enlightenment and a sense of connection with the Universe.

    What to expect in a tantric yoga class

    A tantric yoga class may feel like a blend of hatha yoga and kundalini yoga. It puts more emphasis on the connection between energy and spiritual freedom to experience enlightenment. While each tantric yoga school will have its own methodology, the most common practices a teacher may use include:

    • Mantras: Sacred sounds, words, short phrases in Sanskrit to be repeated or chanted with the purpose of transforming the mind, body and spirit.
    • Mudras: Sacred hand gestures that interact with the body’s energetic field and redirect energy to create changes in our emotions, body or mind.
    • Pranayama: Breathing exercises used in yoga to encourage mental focus, healing and purification of the body. They help move the “prana,” or life force energy, through the body.
    • Chakra work: Specific movements or poses that activate the energy of one or more chakras with the purpose of stimulating that part of the body and triggering certain responses or emotions.

    How do you know if tantric yoga is right for you?

    If you’re curious about this practice, take this into account:

    • This style of yoga is deeply spiritual. If you would like to explore a yoga style with rituals, sacred chanting and meditative practices, look no further.
    • If you love hatha yoga, tantric yoga will take you through familiar poses and sequences with a few newer elements. It might be a good way to delve deeper into the ancient roots of yoga.
    • If you want to learn about energy, chakras and the meaning behind mudras and mantras, tantric yoga will help you start a new chapter in your yoga education.
    • If you’re at a point in your life when you are seeking a connection with the Universe or the Divine, tantric yoga will help guide you on the journey to spiritual enlightenment and realization.
    • Please note that the type of tantric yoga we described in this article is also referred to as “white tantra.” Classes advertised as “red tantra” are related to intimate and sexual practices.

    If you don’t think tantric yoga is your cup of tea, explore our Stories Hub to learn about other styles of yoga!

    Aimeé Durán Triujeque l Mukha Yoga Writer
    By Aimeé Durán Triujeque; All Rights Reserved @2022

    Aimeé Durán Triujeque l Mukha Yoga Writer By Aimeé Durán Triujeque; All Rights Reserved @2022