What is Red Tantra?: A Guide to Sacred Sexuality

Welcome to Red Tantra, a practice that invites you to explore the profound connection between your sexual vitality and your spiritual awakening. Unlike anything you've ever experienced, Red Tantra transforms the pleasure of the act of love into a sacred journey, one that promises not just pleasure, but enlightenment.

Rooted in the rich traditions of Tantra and sharing a deep connection with Yoga, Red Tantra takes you beyond the physical, guiding you through a transformative path that celebrates the unity of body, mind, and spirit. This path isn't just about physical exercise or meditation—it's about awakening a powerful, primal energy within you and using it to reach new heights of consciousness and connection.

Introduction to Red Tantra

Did you know that Yoga and Tantra are like siblings from the same mystical tree of life? Back in the day, they were practically inseparable. Take Hatha Yoga, for instance, created by the legendary Tantra Master Goraknath. Tantra means "methods for raising consciousness," and Yoga means "union."

Both aim for that sweet spot of unity consciousness through a mix of active and silent meditation methods. Modern yoga might seem like just a fitness routine, but traditionally, it follows eight limbs that lead to spiritual awakening, with those cool yoga poses (asanas) being just one of them.

How Red Tantra Differs from Other Forms of Tantra and Yoga

Just like yoga, Tantra has its fair share of myths and misunderstandings. You've probably heard of White, Red, and Black Tantra. These labels are a bit of an oversimplification. Back in ancient times, Tantra was passed down from master to disciple, with practices tailored to the student's level. Beginners started with what we now call "White Tantra," or the "white path" and after years of practice, they graduated to the more advanced "Red Tantra,” which may also include methods of meditation practiced during sexual union.

So, what's the deal with Red Tantra? It's all about channeling sexual energy into a holistic Tantra practice. Some schools go for visualization, while others dive into meditations and rituals during sexual union. Imagine partner meditation, circular breathing, chakra activation, eye gazing, sacred geometry, mantra chanting, mudras, bandhas, massage, and acupressure—all resulting in a strong accumulation of spiritual energy and an ecstatic experience.

The Goal of Red Tantra

At the heart of Red Tantra is the quest for spiritual enlightenment. Practitioners learn to harness their most potent energies, transforming them from the root chakra up through the body. This journey requires grounding the self in meditation and yoga, so you can stay centered even when emotions run high.

When sexual energy, normally buzzing in the root chakra, gets invited to move up to the brain's glandular system, it can lead to mind-blowing experiences. We're talking full-body orgasms, psychedelic visions, and expanded consciousness. Ever heard of DMT? It's a naturally occurring compound that can trigger these epic states of ecstasy.

When the left and right brain hemispheres merge, you reach a state called Ardhanareshvara, a state of inner divinity which is half male, half female. This union lights up your brain like a million suns and is known as Mahamudra, "the great gesture arising out of the Ultimate Orgasm with the Universe." To get there, you'll need to work with a certified Tantra practitioner to learn to cultivate sexual energy and desire and possibly partner up with a fellow initiate.

The Rebellious Nature of Red Tantra and Societal Taboo

Red Tantra has a rich history of rebellion against societal norms. This advanced form of Tantra has been embraced and suppressed at various times throughout history.

Let's start with a fascinating tidbit: Alexander the Great is said to have been conceived during a Greek Tantric Ritual called the Kaberoi Fertility Ritual at the Sanctuary of the Great Gods in Samothrace. This ritual, held on an island dedicated to a matriarchal form of spirituality, shows that even in ancient Greece, Tantra played a significant role.

In India, between the 8th and 14th centuries, a remarkable Tantra renaissance took place. Kings and royalty were not just rulers; they were disciples of Tantra Masters. The grandeur of the Tantra Temples at Khajuraho, Konark, and Hampi stands as a testament to this golden age. These magnificent temples, created by mystics with hefty investment by wealthy kings, symbolize the deep integration of Tantra into their spiritual and daily lives. One such Tantra Master, Saraha, had a profound influence on the kingdom of Vidarbha, where it was said the entire realm felt so blissful, it was as if everyone was levitating.

The Nath Tradition from Kashmir, a key proponent of advanced Tantra, spread its teachings far and wide, reaching places like Tibet, China, Japan, Bhutan, Indonesia, the Middle East, Greece, and Rome. Even Jesus is said to have been initiated by a Nath Guru during his travels in India.

However, the path of Red Tantra hasn't always been smooth. When the Mongolians ruled Tibet, they faced a choice between two main Tantra approaches: one that included sexual union practices and another that preached celibacy and focused on imagined visualizations. The Mongolian rulers opted for the celibate sect, which evolved into the Dalai Lama lineage we know today. This decision forced the more embodied practices of Tantra underground, where they were taught in secret.

Because of its inclusion of sexual rites, advanced Tantra often had to remain hidden. Even today, sects like the Baul Mystics in India continue to teach these methods in secrecy. The visibility of Tantra in society has always hinged on the attitudes of those in power. When rulers embraced Tantra, its teachings flourished. When they deemed it taboo, Tantra went underground.

Harnessing Sexual Energy

Sexual energy is the life force that flows through all of us, and in Tantra, it’s considered the powerhouse of spiritual transformation. Think of it as the fuel that can drive you to higher states of consciousness. This potent energy, when harnessed correctly, can lead to profound spiritual realizations and a deeper connection with yourself and the universe.

Techniques for Channeling Sexual Energy Upwards

To channel this energy upwards, Tantra offers various techniques. Deep, rhythmic breathing helps circulate energy through the body, while visualization techniques and kundalini yoga can be used to imagine your sexual energy rising from the base of your spine (Muladhara chakra) to the top of your head (Sahasrara chakra). Practicing yoga asanas stimulates the flow of energy through the chakras, and chanting mantras vibrates and awakens your energy centers. Engaging in dances and movements also activates your energy and brings it to life.

Harnessing such powerful energy isn’t without its risks. It’s crucial to approach these practices with a refined intelligence, discipline and awareness. Without proper guidance, you might feel overwhelmed or ungrounded. Always work with a skilled Tantra master who can help you navigate this journey safely.

The Role of Sexual Energy in Spiritual Realization

Sexual energy in Tantra is like the mud at the bottom of a lake. There’s a saying in Tantra: “No mud, no lotus.” This means that our base instincts and sexual energy (the mud) are essential for the blossoming of our consciousness (the lotus). Just as a lotus grows through the water to bloom on the surface of the lake, our consciousness rises through the lower chakras to reach enlightenment.

Another saying in Tantra is: “Sex and Samadhi are one.” This suggests that the Muladhara (sex center) and Sahasrara (crown) chakras are two poles of the same energy system. By activating our sexual energy through Tantra practices, we plant the seeds of spiritual awakening in higher chakras.

The Power of Tantric Sex

Tantric sex is not just about physical pleasure; it’s a sacred practice that unites body, mind, and spirit. Couples looking to explore tantric sex need to undergo an initiation process with a Tantra master, either online or in person. This guidance helps couples use breath, movement, sound, meditation, mantra, mudra, rituals, and specific methods before and during sexual union.

Engaging in tantric sex & tantric sex magic can lead to incredible benefits. You may experience stronger, deeper, and more intense orgasms that resonate through your entire being. It can lead to altered consciousness, where you feel more connected to your partner and the universe, and transcendental experiences, where you encounter moments of transcendence and feel at one with everything around you.

Red Tantra Sacred Sexual Practices

1. Maithuna Ritual

Maithuna is a sacred sexual union ritual that transforms lovemaking and the sex act into a profound spiritual experience. It begins with preparing a sacred space, where candles are lit, incense is burned, and a serene atmosphere is created. This ceremonial lovemaking focuses on the spiritual connection between partners rather than just physical pleasure, allowing them to honor and celebrate each other’s divinity.

2. Vajroli Mudra

Vajroli Mudra is a powerful technique that involves controlling sexual fluids to direct energy upwards. It includes exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, similar to Kegel exercises, but with a specific focus on retaining semen and transforming sexual energy into spiritual energy. This practice enhances vitality and supports spiritual growth.

3. Yoni Puja and Lingam Puja

Yoni Puja and Lingam Puja are worship rituals dedicated to honoring the female (Yoni) and male (Lingam) sexual organs. These practices involve offering flowers, chanting mantras, and performing gentle massages to celebrate the sacredness of these organs. Through these rituals, partners revere each other’s bodies as temples of divine energy.

4. Transfiguration Ritual

The Transfiguration Ritual is a beautiful practice where partners gaze into each other’s eyes for an extended period. This deep eye contact allows them to see and honor the divine within each other, deepening their spiritual and emotional connection. This practice prepares them for a sacred sexual union by fostering profound intimacy and mutual respect.

5. Nyasa

Nyasa is a ritual that involves touching different parts of the body while chanting specific mantras to infuse divine energy into the body. Often performed before engaging in sexual rituals, Nyasa prepares and sanctifies the body, transforming it into a vessel of spiritual energy and enhancing the sacredness of the sexual union.

6. Red Wine Ritual

The Red Wine Ritual is a sensual practice where partners drink red wine as a symbol of merging physical and spiritual pleasure. Sharing the wine from a common cup enhances the sense of unity and connection between partners, making the experience more intimate and sacred.

7. Bindu Visualization

Bindu Visualization focuses on the "bindu" or point of concentration, usually at the third eye or heart chakra. During sexual activity, partners visualize their energies merging at this point, enhancing the spiritual aspect of their union. This practice helps to elevate the sexual experience to a higher state of consciousness.

8. Mahamudra

Mahamudra is a complex Tantric practice involving specific body postures, breath control, and visualization to channel sexual energy upwards through the chakras. Practiced alone or with a partner, it aims to achieve higher states of consciousness. 

Benefits and Applications

Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Benefits

Physically, practitioners experience increased pleasure and orgasmic power, enhancing their overall sexual vitality. Emotionally, Red Tantra fosters a deeper connection and intimacy between partners, creating a bond that is both profound and nurturing. Spiritually, it promotes growth and self-love, encouraging individuals to embrace their true selves and reach higher states of consciousness and awareness.

Real-World Applications

Incorporating Red Tantra into everyday life can significantly enhance your relationships and personal well-being. Practical ways to do this include setting aside time for regular tantric practices, such as breath work, meditation, and rituals that focus on connecting with your partner. These practices improve communication, trust, and intimacy, creating a stronger, more loving relationship.

Testimonials and case studies from practitioners reveal transformative experiences, with many women noting improved relationship dynamics and personal growth. For those interested in further learning, our workshops, resources, and online courses offer opportunities to deepen your understanding and practice of Red Tantra.

Conclusion

By embracing sacred sexuality, you open yourself to a world of transformation, both personally and relationally. The practices of Red Tantra can lead to a more fulfilling, loving, and spiritual life, enriching your experiences, enhancing the power of your human mind and deepening your connections. So, take the first step on this incredible journey and discover the power of Red Tantra and sexuality for yourself.

Author

Ma Ananda Sarita

Ma Ananda Sarita is a Tantra master, initiated into Tantra in 1973 by Osho. With over 30 years of teaching experience, she offers courses and retreats worldwide. As the voice behind this blog, Sarita offers readers a glimpse into the power of Tantra.