Tantra, the Body, and the Release: Legends of Lust and Love, an Esalen Signature Series

Let’s talk about sex, baby! In this workshop, we explore the similarities and differences between Tantra and Neo-Tantra, including the concept of sex for procreation versus sexual rituals for living liberation (jīvanmukti) and more. 

Join Tantric Scholar-Practitioners Sravana Borkataky-Varma and Keith Cantú for this exploration of the foundations of Tantric theory and practice. Together, we will immerse ourselves in the latest findings from academic research and ethnographic participant-observation that challenge and reframe our conception of what Tantra was, is, and can be. We’ll intertwine that research with authentic Indian folk music performances and guided meditations in a creative, visceral experience for the mind, body, and heart. Our collective practice of these new understandings will open your eyes to Tantra’s connection to a wide variety of vibrant artistic and meditative practices.

In this workshop, you’ll be invited to:

• Learn about the similarities and differences between “lust” and “love” and how to harness the former to cultivate the latter.
• Understand how relationships in Tantra relate to gender fluidity and contemporary questions around queer identities.
• Enjoy the benefit of overcoming negative projections and self-generated illusions based on our bodily inhibitions.
• Appreciate the power that myth and epic literature provide for shaping and molding our conceptions of love, gender, and sexuality.
• See Tantra’s connections with art and music,  as well as a broader continuum of its relevance in daily life.

Develop skills to communicate your personal practice to friends and family using your new academic, researched-based understanding of Tantra.

Please Note: In this workshop, we will not be demonstrating Tantric Sex or how to enhance sexual pleasures. However, much of what we will discuss will address gender identity and sexuality. 

We invite you to join us for this series of workshops that blend meditation, art, and music with a holistic inquiry into the power and therapeutic potential of Tantra. Bring an open mind as we explore deep questions about our bodies and minds in a safe space and nurturing environment.