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ABSTINENCE

CELIBACY

strengthens the body and aids the focusing of life energies and emotions. If after a prolonged time spent together an intimate relationship breaks up, a period of sexual abstinence will help heal emotional and psychological wounds. Abstinence from sex is traditionally a part of mourning; after the death of one's sexual partner, one may abstain for three months or even a year. There is a natural tendency toward periods of abstinence as old age approaches because abstinence helps strengthen and revitalize sexuality.

"Short periods of sexual abstinence, such as for three, five, seven, or nine days at a time, can help concentrate sexual energy and increase sensitivity; it may even be recommended prior to the performance of certain sexual rites. Also, if a couple wishes to ensure conception of a strong and healthy child, a few days of abstinence before a prolonged bout of lovemaking will help them achieve their goal. However, prolonged sexual abstinence is not recommended by the Tantras since it causes unnatural sexual currents to build up within the body.

"During periods of sexual abstinence a person should practice Hatha Yoga and breathing exercises more often than normally. It is very important to eat healthy food and take sufficient exercise during times of abstinence. Sexual energy should be consciously drawn upward through the subtle channels and psychic centers; creative visualization and breath control will help this process of sublimation.

"Sexual abstinence normally means abstinence from all forms of sexual contact. Another way of defining abstinence is to divide it into two types: total abstinence from all kinds of sexual contact, and abstinence from orgasm while maintaining sexual contact. In the latter case Tantric techniques for retention and sublimation of sexual energy should be used. Many have gained magical powers by abstaining from orgasm while drawing in and sublimating sexual energy during physical contact with the opposite sex. However, this type of sexual abstinence is not advisable for periods of more than a month at a time since physical and subtle energies should be free to exchange and complete each other if true transcendence is to be achieved.

"Contrary to popular belief, celibacy is not a sign of spirituality. Celibacy is unnatural and is not a suitable practice for healthy individuals. Brief periods of abstinence from sex and total celibacy are completely different in their effect. The celibate lives of monks and nuns are a form of spiritual hypocrisy, since they are denying their natural sexual functions any mode of expression and at the same time separating themselves from the very act that brought them into existence. Celibacy leads to bigotry, fanaticism, and narrow-mindedness because of the unnatural restrictions placed on sexual expression."

son. Just as a favored son always has access to his parents, so Ganesha always has access to us. Devotees who wish to know our special secrets should first honor Ganesha, without whose help no magical act bears fruit.

"Ganesha's long trunk reminds one of the Lingam and his sensuous mouth is like a Yoni, delicate yet all-consuming. Ganesha's consort is called Siddhi because magical powers (Siddhi) can only be controlled once sexuality has been understood and used as an aid to individual evolution. Ganesha rules the spirits presiding over the five elements and his large stomach allows him to digest the experiences of his followers. Ganesha brings good fortune and

success. He is the symbol of discrimination and entry into the realm of occult power."

Parvati says:

"O Shiva, it was when you were in Yogic retreat and I was without you that I took the saffron and sandalwood paste from my own body and from it molded a magical child. I made him in the image of a beautiful boy, perfect in every respect, and through my magical power I gave him life. He faithfully guarded the doorway to my inner sanctum, and on my instructions, allowed entry to no one.

appointed Lord of Obstacles and ruler over the sex center.

"Ganesha still guards the doorway to the inner sanctum. This is a sexual secret that all women share with me. The Yoni is Ganesha's mouth; the clitoris, his trunk, is my secret

Lingam. Truly, Ganesha guards the portal to occult power! For the benefit of those who

wish to advance along the path of ecstasy, Beloved Shiva, please explain how sexual climaxes are built one upon another. Tell me the real meaning of the Four Moments and Four Joys and how a couple can practice sex magic without fear. Tell me the secret breathing

the conscious control of the otherwise involuntary urge to orgasm. During the preliminary stages of love-making both the Lingam and Yoni expand and sexual tension is built up, awaiting release through orgasm. The slower and more gentle the love-movements, the more intense the pleasure-sensations. Sexual climax is approached as the tension/pleasure interface causes both Lingam and Yoni to manifest a series of contractions. These contractions begin in the sexual region and extend throughout the whole body; they create a heightened urge to achieve release through orgasm. Thus, expansion and contraction are the two main factors that bring one to the high experience of sexual climax and are at the beginning and end of all creation.

"For sexual climaxes to be built one upon another, there must be a high degree of mutual cooperation between the Yogi and Yogini. The Yogi must strive to control his own climax while maintaining the tension/pleasure experience and bringing his precious partner to the peak of orgasm. On her part, the Yogini should surrender to the rising urge to climax, without any inhibition; she should consciously induce the normally involuntary contractions of her Yoni and her whole body as it approaches climax and focus all her attention on achieving total physical fulfillment.

"Riding his partner's consciously produced Wave of Ecstasy, the Yogi retains while the Yogini climaxes. In order to achieve total control over retention, he should contract his anal sphincter muscles, draw in his stomach, and hold his breath while rolling or turning up his eyes and focusing his mind on the ideal of penetrating transcendence. If necessary, the Yogi should press the secret place between his anus and Lingam to aid in controlling retention.

"As the climax of the Yogini is achieved, a subtle bio-electrical exchange takes place between the Lingam and the Yoni. In his mind's eye the Yogi should imagine he is drawing

Ganesha in dalliance with his consort, Siddhi, the embodiment of magical power. From a stone sculpture, Khajuraho, circa tenth century.

THE CREATION OF GANESHA

CLIMAX AND ORGASM

SURRENDER

WAVE OF ECSTASY

THE DESCENT

THE ASCENT

FOUR LEVELS OF ASCENT

SEX MAGIC

in his partner's released sexual charge and blending it with his own unreleased energy. Drawing in and retaining, the Yogi should again stimulate the tension/pleasure experience in the Yogini.

"After a brief descent from the heights of climax in fulfillment, the Yogini's Wave of Ecstasy rises again, striving to become one with the cause of her delight. As her climax peaks a second time, roles are exchanged: the Yogini must maintain the high level of ecstasy by stimulating the tension/pleasure experience while the Yogi momentarily abandons control and becomes one with her descending energy wave. At this time the Yogini must maintain the high plateau of impending climax while the Yogi becomes almost overwhelmed by the ebbing tide of orgasm. As the Yogi is about to surrender into descent, the Yogini should draw up the Wave of Ecstasy once again and bring her partner's penetrating sexuality into convergence with her own capacity for ascent to new heights of climax. As the natural convergence of sexual energies takes place, the conjoined Wave of Ecstasy rises higher and breaks through

to new peaks of transcendence. No words can truly describe this liberating experience.

"This process of ascent by riding the Waves of Ecstasy can be repeated over successive climaxes of the Yogini. In each stage the Yogini stimulates, the Yogi retains, and then roles are exchanged. The Yogini must know how to stimulate the release of maximum sexual energy in both herself and her partner without losing control. Yet she must also surrender herself totally to the urge to climax. For his part, the Yogi must have voluntary control over his own orgasm, yet be able to surrender completely to the descending wave of energy from his partner, just after her climax. In each successive climax of the Yogini the plateau effect of

climax is extended and then brought to a higher level by the switching of roles just at the moment of potential descent. Correctly practiced, this leads to the timeless experience of transcendence, the union of Voidness and Bliss.

"There are four distinct levels of ascent, which are associated with the four main Chakras at the navel, heart, throat, and head; and with the four mystical Moments of Union, called 'variety,' 'development,' 'consummation,' and 'transcendence'; and with the evolution of the Four Joys. At the fourth level of climaxes built one upon another, there is feeling neither of self nor of otherness, neither beginning nor end, neither thought nor thinker.

"Sex magic can be practiced without fear only when the emotions are completely understood, purified, and consciously controlled. This does not mean that emotions should be suppressed, but rather that they should be directed. If a couple wish to practice sex magic, the altering of life's circumstances through the power of sex, they should strive to resolve conflicting dualities within themselves, strengthening their weaknesses and developing their capacity for creative innovation. An open, quick, and flexible mind is essential to achievement of success in sex magic.

"There are many secret breathing techniques associated with the control of sexuality.

The complete breath of conscious inhalation, retention, and exhalation, drawing in from

the lower abdomen, aids conscious control over all body functions; the retention phase is particularly linked to control over involuntary orgasm. The cooling breath, which is brought about by inhaling only through the left nostril, calms the urge to orgasm, as does the Crow - beak breath, inhaling through the rolled-up tongue. Likewise the heating breath, which consists in inhaling only through the right nostril, stimulates the sexual drive and brings one closer to climax.

"If one consciously mimics the normal breathing of a person approaching sexual climax, the passions will automatically be stirred up. In the approach phase of her different climaxes the Yogini should thus gain conscious control over her approaching orgasm by using breathing as a potent ally. Similarly, to maintain control over retention, the Yogi should still his breathing and keep his awareness fixed on balancing the solar and lunar forces of his being. Whenever necessary he should emphasize one breath or the other, depending on whether

he is in an active or passive role.

"A secret Tantric technique known as womb breathing consists of lying in a fetal position and taking only very shallow breaths from the region of the abdomen while imagining nourishment entering through the navel region. This type of breathing is extremely vitaliz-

ing and attracts energy from whoever is in close proximity to you.

"Sexual energy is stored in its raw form in the Sex Chakra at the base of the spine. In its transformed state, sexual energy can be concentrated in any of the other Chakras, but especially in the Head Chakra. This is true with both men and women. Sexual energy is naturally transformed and stored in the bodies of man and woman when they make love together harmoniously. Transformed sexual energy is a source of inspiration and insight and can be drawn on in times of need. Though an individual can bring about some degree of transformation of sexual energy alone by the correct practice of Hatha Yoga and creative meditaion, it is not comparable to the transformation of sexual energy that can be brought about by a couple completing each other through successive heights of ecstasy. That is why it is said, 'Though Yogis can advance far on their own, for them to break through into Immor-

tality they must seek to complete themselves with consorts."

With her eyes wide open, Parvati turns to Shiva and says:

"O my Husband, with a lover such as you, no woman could remain unfulfilled! You understand so well the infinite capacity of female sexuality. For woman, the experience of orgasm is not finite, but has as many levels, colors, and subtle nuances as there are stars in the sky. The techniques that you have outlined for ascending and extending the plateaus of pleasure will surely enable women to reach and explore new heights of ecstasy! Great Yogi, this teaching is surely a secret that can transport lovers to the realm of the gods!

ritual gestures and the power of symbolic language. Finally, perhaps you'll feel inspired to clarify the mysteries of the lost fifth Veda and the so-called Great Chinese Rites."

Drawing the beautiful Parvati close to him and whispering in her right ear, Shiva, the

Yogi of Yogis and Lord over all creatures, says:

"Mistress of my life! Secret language is necessary to avoid diluting the potency of the Tantric teachings. Secret language helps guard the inner meaning of the mysteries from those who are unprepared for them or who would abuse them. By couching the Tantric teachings in a language of multi-leveled meanings, the authenticity of initiation is maintained. Just as a form of secret language naturally develops between lovers and is on occasion used by them in public without others being aware of the real topic of discussion, so the Tantras are protected by double meanings, obscure symbolism, allegory, and paradox. Secret language helps express the inexpressible.

"Many different kinds of secret language are used within the Tantric tradition. The teachings can, for example, replace one word with another, like a code. Only initiates who

SECRET BREATHING

WOMB BREATHING

STORING SEXUAL ENERGY

TRANSFORMED SEXUAL ENERGY

SECRET LANGUAGE

TANTRIC CODES

SECRET SIGNS

THREE LEVELS OF TEACHING

The Yoni

The Lingam

Obeisance

Three mystic hand gestures used in the Odissi temple dance and also in Tantric ritual. From traditional sources.

have received oral instruction in the code can ascertain the real meaning of the teaching. In this context, several Tantras refer to the left channel of the Subtle Body as 'the Whore,' the right channel as 'the Tongue,' the universe as 'the Human Skull,' thought as 'the Wild Elephant,' mind control as 'Meat,' breathing practices as 'Fish,' semen as 'Camphor,' the Lingam as 'the Thunderbolt,' the Yoni as 'the Palace' or 'the Lotus,' urine as 'Musk,' and this body as 'the Bag.' These are just some of the code words used in the Tantras.

"Some Tantric teachers hide the meaning of their transmission by making use of allegorical songs, riddles, or coarse erotic rhymes, the true interpretation of which is only understood by initiates. Others use puns, mime, mystic gestures, or secret signs. For example, if a Yogi shows one finger, it implies the question 'Am I welcome?' Stretching out two fingers in reply means, 'You are welcome.' If a Tantric Yogi exhibits his fourth finger to a Yogini, she should indicate that she is proficient in the secret practices by stretching out her little finger; in this exchange of secret signs the Yogi and Yogini are affirming their mutual knowledge of the role of Heaven and Earth, while communicating their desire to perform practices together. Likewise, if a teacher turns over a full bowl of water or food while looking straight at a disciple, it means that that person must empty himself of all clingings or

preconditions in order to receive the teachings directly.

"Tantric truths should be understood on three levels simultaneously: the literal, the allegorical, and the mystical. Ideally, an individual should view these three levels of understanding as complementary and forming a single truth, just as the three main channels of the Subtle Body should be viewed as a complete unit. The potency of Tantric teachings is lost when people interpret them exclusively on the literal, allegorical, or mystical level. For

example, if the rites of the Yogini Chakra are taken on a purely literal level, they cease to

have any significance other than as an excuse for debauchery. If the Yogini Chakra is viewed as purely symbolic or allegorical, it becomes merely an intellectual exercise. If it is viewed as exclusively mystical, it loses both practicality and purpose.

with established views should be maintained.

"The central vein of Tantra goes by many different names. The best known is Sushumna, meaning 'that which brings one forth with ease.' It is also known as Avadhuti, meaning the female adept of sexual Yoga; Saraswati, the mistress of the Sixty-four Arts; and Nairatma, the

egoless, selfless ecstatic being.

"All subtle veins, nerves, or channels are subordinate to the Sushumna. Like the umbili-

stages of spiritual refinement. The innermost Brahma Nadi is called the great Royal Road; only those who know their true origin can travel along it in safety. Gurus, Siddhas, and spiritual 'kings' are the only other beings one will encounter along the Royal Road.

"Ritual gestures are a way of expressing the inexpressible. Known as Mudras, ritual gestures help bring teacher and disciple closer together. They are one of the most direct and potent ways of awakening and communicating with the deities within. Ritual gestures help break through barriers in communication and are the distillation of wisdom.

"Mudras are used to aid concentration and channel energy through their Yantra or power form. In Tantric high magic, ritual gestures are clearly defined intentional acts that blend emotional and intellectual viewpoints into a single focused mode of expression. In rites of initiation, especially, rituahgestures play an important role.

"The secret meaning of Mudra is woman in her role as a Yogini. Truly the sexual partner helps concentrate the mind and emotions on a single purpose! Known as Karma Mudra, the Tantric Yogini is mistress, sex initiatress, and high priestess at the same time. In this context the Karma Mudra is a boon, a blessing, and a vital aid in the direct experience of ecstatic self-realization. She rapidly brings the Yogi to completion by her selfless service to him, just