Have you ever considered that sexuality can be a path to self-discovery and enhancing self-love, not merely a source of pleasure? This is the proposition of Tantra, an Eastern philosophy originating in India, which emphasizes the pursuit of freedom and authenticity. “It’s a way of life where we don’t separate spirituality from the physical body, as we need the material plane to access the energy of the astral field. That’s why touches and other bodily movements are so crucial in this philosophy,” says Ingrid Moreira, a tantric therapist. Despite its spiritual aspects and flirtations with Hinduism through the worship of deities like Ganesha, Ingrid assures that Tantra is not a religion. And where does tantric massage, a more widely known term than Tantra itself, fit into this story?
It all began in the 1970s when the West started incorporating elements of Eastern culture into mainstream society. “The New Wave movement, the hippies, the famous Beatles trip to India, and the arrival of Indian gurus and masters in the United States helped bring Tantra teachings to us. And within this mix, tantric therapy emerged, with massage as a tool,” says Ingrid Moreira, a specializing tantric massage in São Paulo.
Often mistaken for erotic massage, tantric massage and other therapies (meditations, specific breathing techniques, and visualizations) are part of “neotantra”. This term was coined to distinguish new Western practices from traditional philosophy.
What is Tantric Massage for?
Both philosophy and tantric therapy take into account our chakras – energy centers distributed throughout the body – when applying techniques. “We have seven main chakras: the first one is located in the perineum area (between the anus and the vagina/penis), and the last one is at the top of the head. In Tantra, sexual energy equals life force, as it is responsible for creating life. Through massage, we can awaken this dormant energy and make it rise to the top of the head,” explains Ingrid. The philosophy, therefore, does not deny the body. “If everything is sacred and creations are divine, why wouldn’t sex and pleasure be? Massage also aims to help you spiritualize and dissolve ego boundaries.”
The benefits of tantric massage can be both physical and emotional. Physically, it enhances self-esteem and reduces anxiety. Emotionally, it addresses difficulty in expression and a lack of knowledge about one’s own desires. Tantric practices invite individuals to explore and embrace their sensual and spiritual selves, fostering a deeper connection with oneself and others. This holistic approach promotes holistic well-being, integrating body, mind, and spirit in a profound journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Through these practices, individuals can learn to honor their bodies and emotions, leading to a more fulfilling and authentic life experience.
The therapeutic aspect of tantric massage extends beyond physical touch to encompass a profound exploration of personal boundaries and energy flow within the body. By embracing the principles of Tantra, practitioners aim to create a safe and nurturing space where individuals can release emotional blockages and connect with their innate vitality. This therapeutic approach emphasizes mindfulness, breathwork, and intentional touch, facilitating a heightened awareness of sensations and emotions. As a result, tantric massage not only promotes relaxation and pleasure but also encourages personal empowerment and emotional resilience.
Ingrid emphasizes that tantric massage is a journey of mutual respect and trust between the giver and receiver, fostering a deep sense of connection and intimacy. By cultivating awareness and sensitivity to subtle energies, both participants can experience profound healing and transformation. This approach challenges conventional views of sexuality by celebrating its sacred and transformative potential, paving the way for a more harmonious relationship with oneself and others.
