The Essence of Tantric Sexuality

Whether you are simply curious about Tantra, already know something about it, or are already knowledgeable, this is the book for you. The authors studied with the individual most responsible for bringing Tantric practices to the West, and they artfully, seriously and delightfully pass along what they have learned in this slim volume. "How to" manual, history book, explanation of Eastern philosophy: it is all here. There is a huge pile of Tantra books available,trying to take advantage of the fact that sex sells. Many of them are exploitive and ignorant. This one is the real deal: expert, wise and loving.

I feel extremely fortunate to have come upon this book. The wisdom and insight into the Human Being's relationship with his/her own sexual energy is absolutely priceless. If this book were priced at 100 times what it actually costs, it would still be a steal. The personal empowerment I've experienced in every aspect of my life since beginning to digest this book, has me convinced that I have tapped into an understanding of what Human existence was meant to be.

I was pleasantly surprised by this book. It clearly is not "neo tantra" (thank goodness!), and accomplishes the task of presenting a type of tantra that both culturally sensitive and respectful to south east Indian linage/tradition, while still being accessable for serious western practitioner. The authors recognize the importance of shakti worship, and also cover some obscure topics such as the use of perfumes and incense. Sure sex is a part of tantra, but the authors also recognize the importance of the mental component too, such as meditation, concentration, and visualization. This book is a welcome addition to the library of any serious practitioner.

The Essence of Tantric Sexuality by Mark A. Michaels and Patricia Johnson I have studied Tantra for five years and have trudged through numerous books on the subject. Until I read this book, I was under the false impression that Tantric study was demanding, laborious and technical. What occurs in this book is that all of the excess is trimmed away and we are left with a clear path on how to use Tantra to reach new levels of ecstasy. The book is based on a series of lectures given by Dr. John Mumford in 1976. What these lectures accomplish is to successfully combine eastern and western perspectives on Tantra. The translation of eastern beliefs into a manageable path for the western mind is what makes this book so valuable. From the use and mastery of yantras, geometric symbols whose purpose it is to open the chakras, to the Tantric massage, everything is laid out in simple to understand steps. Don't get me wrong. Each simple step is backed up by in depth explanations and extensive examinations of linguistic origins of many words to reveal how their meanings connect in incredible ways. Over fifty pages are dedicated to the three levels of erogenous zones and a systematic method of manipulating them to open the chakras in the most advantageous pattern. By following the path prescribed in the book, the tertiary erogenous zones are made available, a group of areas on the body which are not sensitized unless preceded by the manipulation of the primary and secondary erogenous zones. These simple techniques and patterns extend the number of erogenous zones on the body from eight to eighteen. From this basic knowledge, the Tantric massage can be added in order to begin the opening of the Chakras. What occurs when the Chakras are opened and the erogenous zones are all activated, is an extended period of excitement in which extended and multiple orgasms can be experienced. A couple of chapters address the sensual power of the olfactory nerve. A detailed explanation of why our sense of smell is so powerful and aphrodisiac. The authors then explore what scents are most powerful on men and women. I won't mention any titles, but this book is a refreshing replacement for a book I have been working through for the past two years. I will use this book when teaching Tantra and will keep it handy when planning sessions for clients. The Essence of Tantric Sexuality (ISBN-13 978-0-7387-0900-0) is the first book I have ever reviewed that I read carefully and underlined throughout. I anticipate that I will soon wear this copy out and require a replacement. For anyone interested in Tantra on a personal or professional basis, this book should be on your bookshelf or by your bedside.