How to give tantra massage

Tantra is Sanskrit, and can be translated to mean technique or method of release or liberation. There are several different ways to practice tantra, and one of them is massage. Read our guide to tantra massage here

What is tantric massage?

Tantric massage is a form of erotic massage that originates from the tantric tradition, which has roots in Hinduism, Taoism, and Zen Buddhism, among others. However, it is important to point out that tantric massage is not necessarily about sexual gratification alone; it also involves a deeper connection between those participating in the massage.

Although tantra is an erotic and sensual massage, there is no focus on penetration or orgasm. Because tantra has roots in spirituality, there is a strong focus on sensuality. Breathwork, gentle touch and trust are important elements of tantra massage. 

Before you start tantra

If you want to try tantric massage with your partner(s), it might also be a good idea to talk about what should and shouldn't happen beforehand. Tantric massage can be a foreplay for sex, but it can also just be a sensual massage.

Talk about your expectations first, so the recipient can be fully present in the moment and be aware of the sensations in their body without focusing too much on sexual desire.

Also read: How can you have sex without penetration?

How to get started with tantra massage

Start by creating a pleasant, calm atmosphere. You can do this, for example, by putting on calm music or lighting candles. A brilliant product for this purpose is the massage candle from Dame Products . It looks like a regular scented candle and also gives off a pleasant aroma of lime leaves, musk and white peach. But when the candle has been lit for a while, it creates a light and soft oil that can be used for massage.

If you're not a fan of scented candles, you can also try the All-in-One massage lubricant, which is completely fragrance-free, or this cannabis massage oil .

Tantra and breathing

Tantra massage focuses on increasing awareness of the body's energy fields and promoting a healthy flow of life energy. Within the philosophy of tantra, one works with the understanding that energy fields exist in the body, also known as chakras. These energy fields are seen as the connection points between the physical and spiritual dimensions of one's person.

The energy fields are believed to be connected to life energy, also called prana (in Hindu tradition) or chi (in Chinese philosophy). Life energy circulates through these chakras and is essential to one's physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

Breathing exercises

Breathing is important in tantra, as it is considered a bridge between the body and the mind, as well as a way to regulate and control life energy.

Two exercises you can easily do during tantra massage are:

• Deep and conscious breathing: Both the giver and the receiver of the massage should breathe deeply and consciously, so that you can better connect with your body. You can do this by breathing deeply through your nose and slowly exhaling through your mouth.
• Synchronized breathing : Synchronizing your breathing can create a deeper connection. It doesn't have to be throughout the entire massage, but just during specific moments.

Sensuality and touch in tantra

Tantra massage involves a slow, gentle, and loving touch. This may include stroking, circular movements, and light pressure on various points on the body.

The purpose of this type of touch is not only to loosen muscles, but also to awaken the senses and create intimacy. In tantra massage, the whole body is an instrument for connection and pleasure, so you are completely undressed and are massaged all over your body.

Of course, you can always adapt your tantra massage as needed, for example by keeping some clothes on, or not massaging everywhere - it's always up to you.

Guide to tantra massage

For tantra massage, you can start by lying on your back, and then turn around when appropriate. The massage can look like this:

• Start at the feet: Use gentle, circular motions and light pressure to release tension. Massage each foot thoroughly, including the soles and toes.
  
  
• Work your way up the legs with slow, fluid movements: Feel free to use your hands and arms to vary the pressure. Pay attention to the muscles around the thighs and knees and avoid pressing on bones and joints.
  
  
• If you are lying on your back, you can now turn over onto your stomach so that your buttocks and lower back can be massaged. You can also stay on your back and try the more sensual part of the massage that is relevant if you are a person with a vulva: the yoni massage.
  
  

• Buttocks and lower back. If you are lying on your stomach, you can focus on the buttocks. Use gentle pressure and circular movements to release tension in this area. Gradually increase the pressure if it feels comfortable for the recipient. Here you can also use a magic wand , which can be used both for massage and in an intimate zone.

• Yoni massage : If you are lying on your back, you can try yoni massage, which is a massage of the vulva. There are a lot of nerve endings around the outer labia and the opening to the vagina, so the areas are very sensitive. Make sure to use plenty of massage oil, and let your fingers slide over both sides around the opening to the vagina. During sex, this technique is called shallowing .
  
  
• Back and shoulders: Now focus on the back and shoulders. Use the entire palm of your hand to massage the muscles along the spine. If there is enough massage oil on the back, it may be comfortable for the recipient to place your thumbs on either side of the spine and apply light pressure as you move down the back. Also incorporate stroking movements and more focused pressure, especially in areas of high tension.
  
  
• Neck and scalp: Move up to the neck and shoulders, working your way into the nape of the neck with gentle stroking movements and gentle pressure. Also massage the scalp in circular motions.
  
  
• Finish: Finish the massage with gentle stroking movements all over the body to create a natural accumulation of all the touch. Give the recipient time to rest and let the effects of the massage sink in.

Remember that tantra massage doesn't have to be about sex. It's a relaxing experience that can help strengthen intimacy.

Also read: 5 types of intimacy that aren't sex