blackheartmagazine.com/2008/04/03/the-vixen-guide-to-ta -
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Published on: 1/1/2008
Last Visited: 2/9/2009
After sorting through tons of sketchy-looking websites, I finally got in touch with Al Link and Pala Copeland, a couple from Ontario that have been practising tantric sex since 1987 and teaching others about it since 1997.
So first things first: What is tantric sex really all about?
More than just delayed orgasms, Al and Pala say it's a form of spiritual practice from ancient India in which the goal is both transcendence and connection with "pure consciousness" (i.e., God).
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Al and Pala stress a spiritual path that is free from guilt and negativity, but also suggest that their way is about healthy sex, rather than the kind of sleaze and selfishness you'll find in pornography.
Point taken, as porn is obviously not meant to be a reflection of reality, but is tantric sex really noticeably healthier for you than so-called "normal" sex?
In what we'll call "normal" sex (despite the fact that normality is actually quite difficult to define), both partners get off at some point in time.
In tantric sex, orgasm is deferred - possibly for weeks or months at a time, according to Al and Pala.
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Temporarily withholding ejaculation obviously has its advantages, whether you believe (like Al and Pala) that "the resulting accumulation of life force in the form of sexual energy can, if it is successfully circulated up to the crown of the head, lead to profound mystical and spiritual expansions of consciousness," or simply want to make sure that your partner has a chance to achieve orgasm as well.
On the other hand, extended withholding of orgasm appears to be detrimental to one's physical health.
So what will it be: mystical union and promises of expanded consciousness, or scientific evidence in favour of a healthier prostate?
It's possible that I'm just biased against tantric sex for a variety of personal reasons, and I certainly can't claim that it's a lifestyle to avoid.
Indeed, Al and Pala point out that tantric sex helps teach people to "appreciate and enjoy every moment, every touch, every breath, every contact of the eyes," rather than focusing on the goal of orgasm.
Certainly, sex isn't just about getting off - although that's a lot of fun.
Good sex is also about having an emotional connection with a partner, whether it's just for one night or as part of a long-lasting relationship.
In the end, you've got to do what you feel is right for you.
For more information on tantric sex, check out tantra.com or Al Link and Pala Copeland's website at tantra-sex.com.
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By Al Link on January 2nd, 2009 at 11:25 am
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Al Link and Pala Copeland
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