I Tried It: Lessons From a Tantric Massage Workshop

3 Lessons From My First Tantric Massage Workshop

Tantric massage is a deeply intimate and expansive opportunity that explores the body, mind, and spirit connection through touch. Whether you are seeking to deepen your understanding of this ancient practice or simply curious about the art, read on to learn more about what to expect at a massage workshop!

What is Tantric Massage?

Tantra is an ancient tradition of spirituality and ritual that originated in India. It's a practice that involves the use of energy, body awareness, and sexuality to increase one's connection to all things.

Tantric massage is one aspect of tantra. It is an intimate form of touch therapy that creates the opportunity for you to experience a deeper connection with yourself and your partner.

The Tantric Massage Workshop

When I signed up for my first Tantric massage workshop at E.Sensual Massage, I had very little idea of what to expect. I went alone with the intention to be open to learning.  When I arrived I was surprised to see a variety of ages, ranging from 25-70.

Everyone welcomed me kindly and guided me to my nest where I laid out everything I was told to bring: a sheet, a large towel, a pillow, coconut oil, a notebook, and a pen.

At the beginning of the massage workshop, the teacher guided us through a variety of different exercises around consent, communication, and the different types of touches. When it was time to start the massage, he told us that we could stay with the partner we came with or rotate with the singles. Since I went alone, I learned different lessons from every unique soul that I partnered up with.

Lesson 1: setting boundaries & open communication

Tantric massage can be an incredibly intimate experience, so I tuned in with myself first about what I was open to and what I was not. It's important to make sure that you're comfortable with the person you're working with so before beginning the massage, be sure to communicate your boundaries. This will help ensure that the experience is enjoyable for both you and your partner.

Thankfully, the teacher talked about consent and communication before the massage, which got us all on the same page from the start. By establishing this open communication from the beginning, we set the foundation for a healing experience.

It was a great reminder of how essential it is to create a space for open communication right at the beginning of a new relationship. Since we are all learning how to be respectful of each other's boundaries, it is important to give and receive feedback, and to hold compassionate space for authentic mistakes.

Lesson 2: How to practice a "giving touch"

From soft and light to firm and fiery, there are a variety of different touches you can offer to your partner. Even a simple and present hold on a body part can be very therapeutic. In the giver role, there is more satisfaction for both when a touch is an authentic act of service to the other.

When you are in the position of the giver, you want to make sure that you are aware of your intention and receptive to your partner's needs and desires. A giving touch is when you're not thinking about yourself or what you want, but rather what will feel good for them.

If you're not sure what they want or if you are doing it correctly, then ask them. Keeping an open line of communication will help reduce any discomfort and make the experience more enjoyable for both of you.

Lesson 3: The healing power of intimacy

One of the biggest blockages I had to overcome at the massage workshop was the fact that most of my partners were the same age as my father or even grandfather. Once I was able to let that go, I was able to see how therapeutic this experience was for us both.

For me, it was a beautiful way to practice being present and intimate with someone without any sexual intention. I was able to give them my complete attention and receive their presence in return.

It was a safe space for us to be authentic with each other and to just BE. In our culture, we are so used to putting up walls and defenses that it was refreshing to just let down my walls and be seen. It was a beautiful reminder that no matter our age, we all crave human connection and love.

The result

I loved the opportunity to explore and connect with new people. In the beginning, it was challenging to be intimate with strangers but after the workshop, I felt I had learned more about myself and others.

If you are considering a tantric massage workshop, I would encourage you to go in with an open mind and heart. Be prepared to be intimate in new ways and to explore your boundaries. Most importantly, be sure to communicate with your partner(s) so that everyone is on the same page. With open communication, mutual respect, and a willingness to learn, you will undoubtedly benefit from this experience.

Tantra in San Diego

There are many ways to learn about tantra and tantric massage. One way is to find a teacher or practitioner who can provide you with guidance and instruction. If you are determined to try it out on your own, there are a variety of books and online resources that can support you on your journey. Here are some practitioners and massage workshops in San Diego:

E.Sensual Massage

Shunya Gates Temple

Ashley Faith Tantra

Tantra Quest

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