Dear Friends,
In this blog post, let's explore key aspects of Tantric Practice in Conscious Pathways. What is Tantra? Tantra is a spiritual practice that emphasizes the connection between the physical, the mental, and the spiritual; it involves various techniques and tools that involve body, mind, and spirit to help us cultivate awareness of our connection to our deeper wisdom. The form of Tantra Conscious Pathways teaches is Kashmir Shaivism, which originated in India and began around 850 CE.
One translation of the term "Tantra" in the ancient Indian spiritual language of Sanskrit is "Tools for Expansion." Expansion of what, you may ask? In Conscious Pathways, the answer is: Expansion of Consciousness. Here are some of the tools we use in Conscious Pathways to expand our consciousness to Consciousness itself.
Meditation: Meditation is a central tool in Conscious Pathways practice. Over time it teaches us to quiet the mind, cultivate inner awareness, and connect with the divine joy inside us. Conscious Pathways teaches Kashmir Shaivite Meditation; this form of meditation is completely compatible with busy modern life and will give you tools to begin or deepen your meditation practice wherever you are.
Breath awareness: Breath awareness is another vital part of Conscious Pathways practice. Conscious breathing can help to calm the nervous system, increase energy flow, and deepen awareness of the body, mind, and beyond.
Mantras and centering techniques (dharanas): Tantra often involves the use of mantras and centering techniques (dharanas) to still and focus the mind. These can be repeated silently or aloud during meditation or physical practices to take you to higher states of concentration and awareness.
Ceremony and Ritual: Conscious Pathways teaches various ceremonies and rituals to connect with the divine and cultivate intention. These can include traditional ceremonies, lighting candles, chanting, setting intention, and other symbolic actions to draw our attention inward.
Hatha Yoga, the physical poses of yoga: Tantra often involves physical practices, such as hatha yoga postures (asanas), to cultivate physical strength, flexibility, and balance. These practices also help us purify the nervous system, connect with the body, and increase awareness. In Conscious Pathways, the Five Tibetan Rites are often taught. A potent, short, modified yoga practice, the Five Rites powerfully support the energy systems of the body to help us go deeper into our meditation practice.
Sacred sexuality: Tantra is known for its exploration of sexuality as a sacred, transformative, and powerfully uplifting practice. This involves techniques such as conscious touch, sensual massage, cultivating intimacy, and exploring the connection between pleasure and spiritual connection.
These essential aspects of Tantra in Conscious Pathways teachings and practices help us to cultivate awareness, connection, and transformation as we move forward on our ongoing journey of self discovery.
May these "Tools for Expansion" bring great benefit to you, your life, and your world.
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