We
began the seminar learning about the background and theory of Tantra,
then learned basic tantric terms (yoni for vulva, lingam for
penis/phallus, sukra for semen, maithuna for sexual union).
Though
there were none of the nervous laughs and comments one might expect, I
could feel a marked change in the chemistry of the room as
we discussed a core tenet of tantric philosophy:
During
sexual interaction, the opposite polar energies of male and female
unite, resulting in the explosion of an energy center. This explosion is
considered a state of bliss approaching enlightenment. Contemplating
that thought, that very "explosion", the room became very quiet.
After
a short break (a cooling-off period, perhaps?), we broke into pairs to
practice beginning Tantric exercises: tantric breathing, hand-heart
connection, gaze of intimacy and other grounding and relaxation
practices. I was amused that some student-teachers coped with their
discomfort by adopting a hyper-clinical approach while others fell back
on nervous giggles or performing the exercises only half-heartedly. A
brave few plunged right in, taking advantage of the opportunity to
practice on a fellow teacher rather than an unsuspecting student. (Guess
where I fell?)
