What makes Tantra unique from most spiritual practices is that Tantra embraces the senses as a path to the Divine. See the body as a temple for Consciousness to play and explore the material plane. Tantra uses the senses to expand consciousness. One way to do this is through the Sensory Awakening Ritual. You and your partner explore the art of giving and receiving pleasure by activating the senses. There is something profound about totally surrendering and allowing all of your senses to respond and awaken. It is a sensual process that can be light and playful or charged with eroticism. This ritual is a wonderful way to start a romantic evening or a weekend with your loved one.
Create a sacred space
Turn your room into a temple. Start by removing the clutter and creating an altar. Light some candles, add a vase of flowers, crystals, a photo or object that honors your relationship with the Divine. Then, gather the items that can be used to awaken all the senses during the ritual. Some possibilities might be massage tools, furs, feathers, fruit, chocolate, flowers, essential oils, music, bells, rattles, and eye protectors. Bathe and dress in ritual clothing. The ritual begins by blessing the space. This can be done with sage, incense, bells, chants, or by calling directions. Play beautiful music.
The bubble
Now create a bubble around you and your partner. Do this by waving your arms to define the shape of the bubble that surrounds both of you. Take turns releasing one thing at a time that might prevent you from being fully present in the ritual. As you say what you are removing (past, distractions, anger, worry, etc.) make a gesture as if removing an object from your bubble. Next, point out the things that will enhance your connection (love, willingness, presence, trust, etc.) and gesture, as if bringing these things into your bubble.
Share your desires, fears and limits
Once the bubble is created, share your desires, fears and limits related to this practice. First, one person speaks while the other listens without judging or commenting. Then you switch roles. Here is an example:
“My desire is to be present, to open up and connect deeply with your soul.” “My fear is that I’ll become self-conscious and shut down.” “My limit is that we both turn off our cell phones.”
Why limits? Limits are not walls, they are bridges. Bridges help bring people together. Intimacy occurs when people have healthy boundaries. Healthy boundaries allow you to feel safe, stay open, and be present. Limits are dynamic, so it is important to check in with yourself periodically to see if your limits have changed. If they have changed, update your partner so they can respect your new boundaries. Here are a couple of examples:
“I’m getting tired. I want to finish at midnight.” “I’m sensitive to perfumes, so please don’t wear them.”
Once you’ve shared your wishes, fears, and limits, offer each other a blessing, such as “I want to bless your hands for all you do for others.” Then decide who will receive first and cover their eyes with a blindfold. Help the recipient lie down and get comfortable. The giver begins the ritual by stimulating the senses in the way that seems appropriate, as long as he respects the limits of the person receiving. Come from a place of devotion as you arouse and arouse your partner. Take your time. Be playful and creative.
the power of sight
In this ritual we limit vision with a blindfold to enhance the other senses and add an element of surprise. Also, removing the blindfold and restoring sight at the end of the exchange often lends itself to a new appreciation of the experience of seeing on the part of the recipient. It is as if the world were seen again through the eyes of a newborn baby.
the power of smell
Smell is an important component of pleasure. Your olfactory nerves pick up chemical messages from the air you breathe and quickly deliver them to your brain. Smells are often associated with memories. A whiff of a particular food, perfume, or place can instantly transport you to a time in the past associated with that scent. Pheromones are chemical messages that we send and receive. They affect who you are attracted to and are a major factor in who you choose as a partner. Smell is a great alarm clock.
the power of touch
Touch is a basic human need. We live in a culture where many people are often out of touch. Touch creates a connection at the most basic level. The skin is your largest organ. It feels good to be massaged, kissed, caressed and hugged. The skin is sensitive to many types of sensations. Explore by nibbling, biting, and pinching if you want to add more excitement. Exploring what excites and turns you and your partner on can be fun and bonding.
the power of sound
Sounds create a mood and affect emotions. They can be intrusive or relaxing. Pleasant sounds can help us relax, be present, and open. Stimulating sounds can uplift the body and mind. Music and song are a great gift that can heal and transform. Use music that is sensual and exciting.
the power of taste
The mouth is a highly sensitive and highly developed sensory receptor in most people. Food is associated with both survival and pleasure. Our taste buds detect sweet, bitter, salty and acid. Use a variety of your favorite flavors and textures – salty, crunchy, sweet, juicy – to tempt lips and tongue. The Sensory Awakening Ritual is a great way to open and expand your senses. It allows you to surrender to the pure joy of Consciousness celebrating in human form. It is a gift to be able to connect and experience pleasure and ecstasy with your partner. In a world where people are mesmerized by the incessant stream of thoughts flowing through their heads, it’s refreshing to let go of the mind and rediscover the pleasures of the body.