Practices of Tao Tantra
There are many different practices that can be used in Tao Tantra. These paths are experiential, and so theory is accompanied by practices and experiences. In Tao Tantra our main concern is lifeforce energy (chi/prana) and most especially the sexual-creative energy (jing chi/ ojas). If we can learn to preserve the sexual-creative energy and then lift it up through the body (sublimation) then higher states of consciousness can be attained. As this occurs the body undergoes a clearing process known as purification. We also focus on bringing divine frequencies down into the body, allowing for embodiment of spirit and activating the creative path. Music, dance, poetry and expression are all channels of this "divine download" of energy.
By using a number of different forms of practice concurrently, we enhance the process of transformation.
These are some of the different forms of practice used in Tao Tantra:
By using a number of different forms of practice concurrently, we enhance the process of transformation.
These are some of the different forms of practice used in Tao Tantra:
Meditation
Meditations are often focused on energy at different points in the body There are also special meditations called Inner Alchemy which involve the transmutation of energy from one form into another.
Fullness Meditation is to meditate upon energy or to work with energy through meditation. Emptiness Meditation is to meditate to enhance presence or witness consciousness, whilst being detached from energy and experience. |
Qigong
Qigong means energy work. There are many different forms of qigong. It is part exercise, part meditation, part healing, part dance! We often practice in nature so that we can perceive nature's energy flows and enhance our body's own energetic structure. Sexual Qigong works specifically with sexual energy.
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Ritual
To create a ritual is to make a sacred space in which to complete a practice. It is more a part of Tantra, but Taoist practices can also be performed in a ritualistic way. A reason to use ritual is to create an atmosphere that is different from everyday reality, in order that we might deepen our experience.
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Healing
To allow energy to flow, we need to open energy channels in the body. This is done through qigong and yoga. We can also facilitate the chi flow in someone else's body, which is called healing. This is like doing qigong to someone else.
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Dance
Dance is can be used to explore energy in motion. It is especially often used as part of the female path of sacred sexuality. We can use this medium to open to archetypes and expressions that we may not usually express. This creates powerful openings in women.
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Theory
Theory is used as a framework in which to contain our experiences. It is not a substitute for experience or practice! Many theories in Tao and Tantra are maps of reality, such as Yin-Yang, Five Elements, Chakras etc. These maps help us to understand energy flow within ourselves and the universe.
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