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Tantra and Tantric Massage. Do Not Confuse Them with the Erotic Kind
Tantra and tantric massages are still surrounded by prejudice and the taste of forbidden fruit. And although sexual energy is an inseparable part of this ancient teaching, it is by no means a one-sided matter. Michaela Lynnette Torstenová, the owner of a Prague-based salon, explains what tantra truly is and why tantric massage should never be mistaken for an erotic one.
A Personal Experience with Tantra
I have a personal and very pleasant experience with tantric massage. Years ago, my partner and I had the opportunity to experience it in a well-known Prague salon, and I must say it was an extraordinary, complex, and deeply transformative experience. Even though it happened long ago, I still like to return to those memories from time to time. I recently revived them in a warm conversation with Bc. Michaela Lynnette Torstenová, MBA, the founder of Tantra Massage Prague.
What Is Tantric Massage Really About?
Tantric massage is still surrounded by myths, even though times have certainly changed. Many people still associate the term “tantric massage” with a disguised form of erotic massage and a kind of intimacy that has little to do with true tantra.
So how would you define tantric massage in simple terms, what is its purpose and what is it based on?
“A true tantric massage is a unique and carefully structured ritual rooted in tantric philosophy and approach, certainly not an erotic service, as it is often mistaken for,” explains Michaela Lynnette Torstenová.
“Unfortunately, erotic masseuses and profit-driven entrepreneurs often misuse the word tantra as a marketing lure, giving the true teaching a bad reputation. Traditional tantric massage is much more than just a massage. Above all, it is a deep meeting of two people, filled with sensitivity, respect, and full attention to the body and soul of the receiver.
Even though it has a set structure, each tantric massage is a unique ritual created in the moment between the giver and receiver, depending on their mutual energy. The form therefore differs in details according to the personality of both client and masseuse, while tantric principles and the quality of techniques remain constant. There is space for intuition and the flow of present energy, essential elements of every tantric massage.”
During the session, elements of tantric-taoist practices and classical massage merge with personal presence, deep sensitivity, and refined knowledge of energy work. Tantric massage traditionally takes place on a futon (mat), by candlelight, with the sound of soft oriental music, in a peaceful and private setting.
The Purpose and Nature of Touch
Tantric massage involves various types of touch from gentle and feather-light to dynamic and grounding. Unlike other forms of massage, it is a holistic ritual, meaning it also includes intimate touch.
Its purpose is not stimulation, but for the receiver to experience full acceptance of themselves to awaken awareness of their own power and the flow of life energy through the entire body, not only the pelvis as we are commonly used to.
This often leads to a shift away from goal-oriented sexuality toward a more spontaneous and natural experience of intimacy and arousal.
What Tantra Brings to the Giver
Usually we hear about what tantra brings to the client. But what does it offer to the masseuse or masseur? How do they work with possible arousal does it belong here at all?
“Tantric therapists go through a long path of growth and training to become therapeutic guides,” says Michaela. “It’s essential to understand tantric philosophy deeply, learn to work with the body, master different massage techniques, and develop the art of conveying the tantric experience.
During the ritual, the masseuse becomes a guide who leads the client through the entire process. She must be fully attuned and experience the massage together with them. This often brings feelings of arousal, tenderness, or caring. After the massage comes joy and fulfillment when she sees the client radiant and relaxed. It’s also a deep sense of meaningful work.
Of course, sometimes uncomfortable feelings arise especially with clients who do not respect the boundaries of tantric massage and demand sex, for instance. In such cases, the masseuse must focus on maintaining the safe frame of the ritual and her own boundaries. Then the session cannot satisfy either the client or the therapist. Fortunately, such cases are rare nowadays.”
Who Comes for Tantric Massage
“Tantric massage is still more popular among men, who are often more open to trying something new and unfamiliar. Women usually receive it as a gift from a partner or a friend, but many also come on their own.
As awareness of tantra grows and as women share their positive experiences with friends, the number of female clients continues to rise. The massage is also very popular with couples who wish to share a bonding and inspiring experience that can bring renewal, connection, and open deeper communication.”
A Closing Message
“Tantra is an amazing and healing philosophy that is truly worth exploring,” concludes Michaela.
“To have a beautiful and beneficial experience, however, it’s essential to choose a center where the therapists undergo genuine tantric training. You can’t absorb true tantric experience over a weekend! It’s a deep personal process that brings a new perspective on life and opens further dimensions of perception – and that’s the journey your therapist will guide you through.
If you choose well, it’s absolutely worth it. And I sincerely wish everyone to experience such an incredible tantric journey as the one that led me to this work.”
Interview with Michaela Lynnette Torstenová, founder of Tantra Massage Prague
September 24, 2021
Author: Lea Kotková
(zena-in.cz)
Founder of Tantra masáže Praha s.r.o., psychotherapist, manager, lecturer of tantra and personal development groups, coach, yoga and holistic bodywork lecturer, massage therapist (10 years of practice), author of the "Inner wave" therapeutic tantric massage technique, massage lecturer.
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