I am not a Tantrika...

Sacred Sexuality & Magick

Recently, I was asked "Why do you make the statement, I am not a tantrika, when you clearly offer what others would happily call Tantra?"  This lead to a full conversation in which I attempted to share my personal truth around this. The conversation has inspired this (condensed version) sharing:

In the realms of spirituality and personal growth, there are ancient practices that have intrigued and captivated seekers for centuries. Among them are Tantra, sacred sexuality, and sex magic, each carrying its own unique essence and purpose. Whilst these practices share certain similarities, it feels important to me, to recognise their distinct qualities and understand the differences that set them apart. Without doing so, we disrespect the lineage of "classical tantra" by simply using the term as a marketing tool, whilst straying far away from its inherent teachings. Can you imagine a whole range of sexy experiences being sold under the heading "Christianity" or "Judaism" just because somewhere within their scriptures, there might be mention of the whole of life, including sexuality, being deemed sacred? No? So why have we done this to Tantra? (I acknowledge this is an oversimplification, but I feel there is some validity in asking the question.)

I hold my hand up to be counted amongst those guilty of using the term, knowing that by doing so, my information is more likely to show up in an internet search. The only (weak) justification I give myself is that I do at least attempt to pay homage to the truer expression of Tantra; even whilst being more accurately aligned with the term Sacred Sexuality, and including in my services, Sex Magick. 

Here, I seek to offer a brief glimpse at what makes what what, and which, which...

Tantra:
The Path of Integration & Expansion

Originating from ancient Hindu and Buddhist traditions, Tantra is a spiritual path that encompasses a wide range of practices and philosophies. At its core, Tantra is about embracing and integrating all aspects of life, including the mundane and the divine. It emphasizes the interplay between masculine and feminine energies and seeks to attain spiritual enlightenment through the exploration of sexual energy.
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Tantra views sexuality as a sacred force, a potent source of life energy that can be harnessed for personal and spiritual growth. However, it extends beyond sexual union to encompass a holistic approach to life, emphasising mindfulness, meditation, breath-work, and rituals. Tantra teaches individuals to cultivate deep presence, heightened awareness, and a profound connection with oneself, one's partner, life, and the divine.

Sacred Sexuality:
Honoring the Divine Within

Sacred sexuality, on the other hand, is a broader concept that encompasses various spiritual practices and belief systems. It recognises sexuality as a sacred expression of our divine nature and seeks to honour and embrace it in a reverential and conscious manner. Unlike Tantra, sacred sexuality is not limited to any specific tradition or set of practices, allowing for more personal interpretation and exploration.

The essence of sacred sexuality lies in the intentional cultivation of love, intimacy, and deep connection through expanded awareness of, and mature relationship with, our sexuality. It involves the honouring of one's body, desires, and boundaries, as well as the recognition of the inherently sacred dimension of sexual experiences. Sacred sexuality empowers individuals to approach intimacy with reverence, authenticity, and emotional presence, fostering personal growth, healing, healthier relationships, and spiritual expansion.

Sex Magick:
Purposeful Channeling of Sexual Energy 

​Sex magick, while sharing some similarities with Tantra and sacred sexuality, has a more focused intent. It involves the intentional harnessing and directing of sexual energy for the purpose of manifestation and transformation. Rooted in ancient occult and/or shamanic traditions, sex magic combines sexual arousal, visualisation, and intention to create powerful energetic shifts.

Sexual energy holds immense creative power and can be channeled to manifest desires, deepen spiritual connection, and access higher realms of consciousness. By engaging in specific rituals and practices, individuals can raise their sexual energy, direct it towards a specific intention, and release it into the universe to catalyse change and manifestation.

Which are you seeking?

In the journey of personal and spiritual growth, Tantra, sacred sexuality, and sex magic offer unique pathways to explore and expand our understanding of ourselves, our relationships, and the divine. Whilst Tantra embraces sexuality as a sacred force and emphasises integration, presence, and connection; sacred sexuality focuses on honouring and embodying the divine within our sexual experiences. Sex magic, in turn, utilises sexual energy as a potent tool for manifestation and transformation.

​By engaging with these practices, we each have the opportunity to deepen our connection with our own bodies, cultivate profound intimacy with others, and awaken to the vast potential within ourselves. Whether you choose to explore Tantra, sacred sexuality, or sex magic, each path holds the potential for healing, growth, and profound self-discovery.

So how about you? What is it you are REALLY here to explore? Let me know ;)