Blog

In previous articles, we explored the origins and development of Tantra, as well as its core principles. We also looked into one of the most well-known traditional tantric lineages – the teachings of Kashmir Shaivism. But do today’s tantra workshops offer these classical teachings, or has an entirely new form of tantra emerged?Anyone who has studied traditional tantric teachings will admit that the form of tantra spreading in the West today is quite different from traditional tantric practices. As such, the term neo-tantra has been coined to describe these modern Western teachings. In our exploration of tantra’s evolution, we’ve seen that tantra has always changed throughout history, so modern changes shouldn’t necessarily be viewed negatively. Let’s take a closer look at what neo-tantra really is and what common threads it shares with classical tantra.Just like yoga, tantra teachings were adapted in the 20th century to suit Western society, giving rise

In the previous parts, we provided a general overview of the origins and core principles of Tantra, and it became clear that there is no single form of Tantra; rather, Tantra has evolved over time. In addition to historical changes, Tantric teachings also differ based on different lineages. However, there are some core principles that have historically and still today united all Tantric systems. The most important of these is that Tantra is a spiritual system aimed at enlightenment (or liberation), and this is achieved by perceiving all of reality as divine. Now let’s delve deeper and introduce one particular Tantric lineage whose teachings are considered part of the higher Tantra – Kashmir Shaivism. Prepare yourself for a fairly philosophical read and try to feel what you read in your body/being. At the end, a short meditation awaits you. Kashmir Shaivism is one of the non-dual Tantra (Shaivism) lineages that

​​In the previous text, we concluded that classical tantra is primarily based on Kaula Tantra, or non-dualistic tantra, whose highest goal is enlightenment. In the West today, the type of tantra that is widespread is often referred to as neo-tantra, suggesting that it’s a kind of modernized version of tantra. But does neo-tantra still have anything in common with classical tantra, or is it just the name that remains the same? Looking at the history of tantra, it has evolved constantly over the centuries—especially in terms of its practices. Even within the same time period, different tantric lineages had differing practices. When tantra practitioners met in India centuries ago, their question to one another was: What kind of tantra do you practice? Tantric teachings were passed down through a teacher or guru, and each guru had their own specific energy they worked with and into which their students were initiated.

Tantra evolved from Shaivism into two schools: dualistic Shiva Siddhanta and non-dual Kaula Tantra, which emphasizes Shiva-Shakti unity, liberation in life, and challenges to social norms.

Participating in a Tantra festival as a couple requires clear communication and boundary setting. Discuss desires and fears, create a sense of safety, use signals, and share experiences before, during, and after the event.

Tantra, rooted in ancient matriarchal traditions, honors both feminine and masculine energies. Emerging in India around the 4th-6th century, it blends spiritual, ritual, and fertility practices for enlightenment.