Neotantra

Neo-tantra is a term used to describe the modern western use of the word Tantra.

Modern Western Tantra

While the term neo-tantra is not commonly used in popular society (as most people use only 'Tantra'), this term refers to both the new age, modern western, and in some cases more opportunistic interpretations of traditional Indian tantra. While some of its proponents refer to ancient and traditional texts and practices, many use tantra as a catch-all phrase for "sacred sexuality". In addition, not all of the practices of Indian tantra are used in modern western tantric practices, in particular the reliance on a guru, guruparampara, and extensive meditative practice.

Practitioners

Teachers of this version of tantra have the belief that sex and sexual experiences are a sacred act which is capable of elevating its participants to a higher spiritual plane. They often talk about raising Kundalini energy, activating the chakras, and experiencing full-bodied orgasms. The word "tantra", in this context, often refers to the set of techniques for cultivating a more fulfilling sexual or love relationship. Note the many popular versions and interpretations of the Kama Sutra.

Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, later known as Osho, used his version of tantra in combination with breathing techniques, bio-energy, yoga and massage in some of his groups. His students continued this concept and developed it. One of his most successful and well-known students is Margot Anand.

Many other teachers have pioneered their modern understanding of tantra as it relates to its ancient roots. Some believe that tantric knowledge or teachings can be directly transmitted from teacher to student through the modalities of eye contact, playful conversation, touch and sexual contact. Others consider tantra as a way to use one's body to connect with the Divine without the need for a spiritual leader.

Criticisms and Misuse

Often the word tantra is misused by sex workers to embelish their practice, and is just a thin veil over what is basically prostitution. In less extreme cases the practices are inproperly advertised as tantra when in fact they are at best 'sexual education'.

Georg Feuerstein, a Buddhist who also trained in Hindu Tantra, writes in the epilogue of his book Tantra: Path of Ecstasy:

"Many are attracted to Neo-Tantrism because it promises sexual excitement or fulfillment while clothing purely genital impulses or neurotic emotional needs in an aura of spirituality. If we knew more about the history of Tantra in India, we would no doubt find a comparable situation for every generation." He goes on to say, "Today translations of several major Tantras are readily available in book form, and many formerly secret practices are now, in the language of the texts, 'like common harlots'. This gives would-be Tantrics the opportunity to concoct their own idiosyncratic ceremonies and philosophies, which they can then promote as Tantra."

Related Concepts

There are accounts suggesting that sexual practices by individuals with no spiritual agenda may trigger a range of transcendent experiences, as psychologist Dr. Jenny Wade describes in her book, Transcendent Sex.

References

• Tantra, The Supreme Understanding, Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh (1975)
• The Art of Sexual Magic, Margot Anand (1996)
• Yoga Spandakarika: The Sacred Texts at the Origins of Tantra, Daniel Odier (2004)
• Tantric Yoga: The Royal Path of Raising Kundalini Power, Gavin Frost & Yvonne Frost (1989)
• Kama Sutra: A Modern Guide to the Ancient Art of Sex, Nitya Lacroix (2003)
• Sacred Orgasms, Kenneth Ray Stubbs (1992)
• Tantra: The Path of Ecstasy", Georg Feuerstein (1998)

See also

Expanded Orgasm