By Michael Mirdad

HISTORY OF SEXUAL PRACTICES

One of the oldest known practices of Sacred Sexuality is that of Tantra. The art/philosophy of Tantra began with the ancient writings of the Kama Sutra, a few thousand years BC. The Vedic Hindus treated sex like an art/science--something to theorize, experiment with and practice.

Tantra is like the multi-leveled system of Yoga. Both systems use a number of disciplines and sub-disciplines, which provide paths for the disciple. Tantric sex is only one facet of Tantra. Other paths of Tantra include: Sound, Cooking, Aromatherapy, Sports, Visualizations, etc... The purpose of sexual Tantra is to expand and prolong the physical and psychological connection between a man and a woman-- namely during intercourse. Tantric sex attempts to bring its participant together in such a oneness and in such a high state of ecstasy that each person experiences heightened awareness of their senses and of their divine selves--beyond the body.

Less ancient than Tantric Sex, is the profound sexual practices of the Taoists. Like Tantra, Taoism has many facets, sex being only one. The wise and respected Taoist Masters (both male and female) were often used as advisors to the royalty in matters of philosophy, life, and even sex.

The primary concept behind Taoist lovemaking is to transform raw sexual energy into healing energy and vitality. The results include better health and improved sexual performance. This Taoist process is called the inward orgasm (injaculation), in which the orgasm raises up the spine and stimulates the Endocrine glands, the spine, nervous system, organs, etc... The inner orgasm is much more intense and invigorating than the outward orgasm, wherein all of the orgasmic vital energy is expelled.

The Taoists used beautiful, and sometimes humorous metaphors when discussing or teaching about sexuality. For example, the Taoists regard 'man as fire and woman as water. Fire, when started, burns very fast and does not last long. At this time woman or water is just beginning to boil' (or get hot). The lesson here was that if a man can prolong his climax (and erection) he can help the woman reach her natural stages toward orgasm, which will also make his orgasm a multiplied thing.

In more recent times, the art of Sacred Sexuality was known as Alchemy. This lost science was reputed to be about turning base metals into gold. The understanding is now becoming clear that the western mystics that practiced alchemy were disguising their art of sexuality. They were really using alchemy as a metaphor for transmuting base, sexual energy into full mind-body and spiritual orgasms.

Finally, in our own contemporary times (and with so much information available to us), we see an eclectic approach to sacred sex. This means a person can learn to use the best of all of the ancient arts of sexuality. Tantra is becoming a common term and is being used to market everything from jewelry to sensual oils. We are also seeing the use of the sexual arts for healing, especially for sexual issues, like sexual abuse.

The signs of having sexual dysfunction, or issues, can take many forms but includes: Impotence, Abusive behavior, Resisting sexual contact (including kissing), Avoiding being sexually attractive, Experiencing shame about your body and/or past experiences, Obsessing about sex, Pursuing high-risk sex, and Continuing these patterns, even if your relations suffer. Having issues around sexuality is fairly normal but it does not mean that it is a wise choice not to heal these issues.

MISUNDERSTANDINGS ABOUT SEXUALITY

When the renowned psychic, Edgar Cayce was asked about the affects of masturbation, his trance-answers were mixed. For some clients, he stated that masturbation was a healthy practice. Yet for others, he claimed it was harmful. The bottom line was that if a person was aroused, it was advised that they do something with the energy, or else it could fry the cells of their sexual glands. Nevertheless, this was only for a person who was naturally aroused. The same is not true for a sexual addict, who constantly arouses themselves. This was seen as a practice that would deplete ones vitality. The ancients seemed to agree.

Another misnomer about sexuality is around the topic of celibacy. This concept comes up for nearly every student who ever embarks on the spiritual path. Yet it should be clear that celibacy, by its true definition is when you make a personal choice to abstain from sex (including masturbation), during which time, you channel the sexual energy into your body for a higher purpose.

The positive affects of celibacy include self-discipline and using the sexual energy to enhance ones own health and vitality. The negative affects of celibacy include personal frustration and depression. These negatives can be turned around with the proper use of sexual exercises.

Granted, some people have some very serious reasons to have inhibitions with their sexuality. Nevertheless, this is not meant to be their permanent state of being. With enough courage, anyone/everyone can heal. Yet it may certainly mean pushing through ones personal issues. For example, some people are inhibited around sexual terminology. How can we move into a true comfort with our actions if we can't even be comfortable with the terminologies? For example, did you know that the original meaning to the word FUCK was as a legal mandate that allowed a person to Fornicate Under the Consent of the King? It's true! Most of the terminology around sex, actually has a meaningful history. We are the ones who associate naughty and negative connotations to these words.

Oral sex is another taboo for some people. On the other hand, the ancients taught that oral sex is a wonderful accent to the total sensual experience. In the arts of sacred sex, there are numerous techniques that are taught for pleasuring a man or a woman. When practiced correctly, oral sex is considered by some to be at least as pleasurable as intercourse itself. Nevertheless, with respect to the truest form of sacred sex, one should not commit to practices that are too frightening or uncomfortable.

HEALTHY SEXUALITY

Although there is no single practice of sexuality that is right for everyone, here are some healthy ideas to consider.

1. Remember that sex is one of the most powerful manifestations of love.
2. The most profound experience of sex begins with your own self-awareness and healing.
3. Intimacy is a crucial part of a safe, ecstatic experience.
4. Foreplay is an important part of intimacy and should begin with your awareness of your partner's body and their needs.
5. Orgasms are not the goal of sex, so relax and enjoy ALL feelings. Sharing love is most important!
6. Sacred sexuality can enhance all sensations, including orgasms-which evolve into full-body experiences.
7. Sacred sexuality means paying more attention to: Prayer & Meditation, Environment, Aromas, Music, Breath, Clothing and Intimate Contact (smile, kiss, gaze, biting, tickle, and touch.
8. When you get close to having an orgasm, you can choose to channel the energy through your body instead. This can be done as often as you like. Then, an external orgasm can also be experienced whenever you want.
9. For the optimum use of a shared sexual experience, the partners should share in the "work." The Taoists taught that the passive one is receiving the most healing. So, turns should be taken.
10. Remember that kissing is one of the most intimate and sensuous things we can share with a friend or lover. The lips are symbolic of the sexual organs in face reading.

Dr. Michael Mirdad has facilitated over a thousand classes and workshops worldwide for over 20 years. He is a renowned healer and counselor with an extensive background in psychology, parapsychology and metaphysics. Michael is also an intuitive counselor who works with individuals and couples on relationship issues and soul-level healing.

For more information about upcoming workshops on Intimacy, Sexuality and Relationships in your area, please call: (360) 671-8349.