Tantric Yoga
Tantric yoga has been entirely taken out of context within the West. Tantric yoga is an ancient practice based upon the notion of expansion, and it has nothing to do with sexual tension.
Literally, the word tantra means “expansion.” Thus, one that is known as a tantric yogi solely focuses upon stretch out all levels of their consciousness. The whole point of tantric yoga is to reach a Supreme Reality that cannot be reached in any other way. Those that practice this form of yoga seek to become one with spiritual energy bypassing the boundaries of personal limits. It should be stated and understood that this form of yoga has absolutely nothing to do with any sort of dark or foul purpose.
In fact, the many things that are involved in this yogic practice are entirely pure. However, some have tainted this form of yoga in order to turn it into something that it is not. Sexual practice is not at the crux of these poses – instead, this form of yoga was created to transfer spiritual forces into higher outlets. Both male and female contain certain restraints within their bodies that are force to align within the confines of this yogic practice.
How did tantric yoga become so out of touch with its roots? Those that took this form of yoga and taught it based upon sexual notions were simple minded people. These people did not understand the true path of enlightenment and harmony that this form of yoga was based upon. Rather, they simply stole these poses and ideas in order to turn them into something that they never were. While you can interpret this type of practice for yourself, it is best if you understand the true basis for these poses.
Should you run into a teacher that does not emphasize the spiritual interplay involved with this sort of yoga, make sure that you do not follow this teacher. Instead, find a guru that can lead you down the true, pure, path. Though this type of yoga has undergone great abuse, it can still be salvaged within the Western world if it is wholly comprehended.
This article has strived to place tantric yoga into perspective, though many will still believe those false truths that surround this form of yoga. In any case, remember that this type of practice is ancient, good, and entirely concerned with spirituality ... not with sex.