Tantra Is Misunderstood in The West
People often associate tantra with using rituals, mantras, and other techniques to tap into and channel the energy and power of the universe. They see it as a way to achieve spiritual growth, enlightenment, and unity with the divine. We find it in Hinduism and Buddhism, although it has also influenced other regional spiritual traditions.
Tantra is often misunderstood or misrepresented in the West. They associate it with sexual practices or taboo activities. However, in the traditional context, it is a complex spiritual tradition encompassing many practices and teachings, not limited to sexual practices.
In some traditions of Tantra, a guru is an important guide and mentor in spiritual practice. The guru is an expert in the tradition and can guide and support students as they progress on their spiritual journey.
In these traditions, the guru-disciple relationship is an important aspect of tantra practice. Therefore, students are expected to show respect and reverence to their guru and follow their guidance.
However, not all traditions emphasize the guru-disciple relationship, and it is possible to practice Tantra without a guru. Some people may learn about it from books or online resources or seek guidance from qualified teachers or practitioners without entering into a formal guru-disciple relationship.
Tantra And Yoga
Tantra and yoga are both spiritual practices that originated in India. While there is some overlap between the two Hindu and Buddhist traditions, they also have some distinct differences.
Yoga is a spiritual discipline that involves physical, mental, and spiritual practices. Physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), and meditation are all part of Yoga. It aims to achieve physical and mental well-being, as well as spiritual growth and enlightenment.
On the other hand, Tantra is a spiritual tradition involving a wide range of practices and teachings. It mainly includes rituals, mantras, and the use of sacred symbols. It is using energy and power to achieve spiritual growth and unity with the divine.
Yoga focuses on physical and mental well-being, while Tantra focuses on spiritual growth and enlightenment. However, the two traditions overlap and may come together in some cases. It is also important to note that people use the term “tantra” broadly and somewhat ambiguously, and there is significant diversity within its tradition.
But it would be best if you did any serious practice of Tantra only under the guidance of an eminent guru.