The sexual act becomes a symbol of the unification of all dualities. The familiar symbol of the yin and yang represents this union of duality. In Tantra, an important understanding is the balance between male and female as an essential goal. The dualistic concept of male and female is envisioned holographically, from the cellular level of an individual to the cosmic level in the universe. In the chakra system, for example, each chakra maintains its own balance of male and female principles. Without this clear understanding, some people mistakenly believe that Tantra can only be practiced by a heterosexual couple. Tantra is relevant to everybody, regardless of sexual orientation, because we are all striving to be in balance on every level: within the individual self, within the relationship between two people, and within our broader relationship with the universe. Archaic, rigid beliefs around gender roles have nothing to do with balancing the male and female principles.

The concept that voidness alone exists, beyond good or evil, is an essential component of Tantra. Tantra teaches acceptance of all that is, and insists upon the absolute value in everything. The notion that everything is a manifestation of consciousness supports the wisdom of releasing judgement. The concept that the body is a wonderful gift through which to experience spiritual development and that the pleasure our bodies can give us is, indeed, the streaming of Source energy through us is profoundly liberating from the fearful, constrained training of most westerners.

So how is Tantra relevant to westerners? Tantra teaches us how to deepen our presence within our own sense of self and in relationship with our beloved. In lovemaking, rather than rushing toward a brief orgasmic release, Tantra teaches us how to relax and take our time, cultivating the experience of multiple full-body orgasms for both men and women. Especially for women who often take longer to arouse, an atmosphere that supports timelessness and delight with whatever is happening along the way is a powerful boost to connecting with their erotic selves. Removing pressures to perform, hurry up or respond in a pre-conceived fashion profoundly liberates all of us to explore who we really are as sexual beings.