A Background of the Kama Sutra

Before we discuss the best tips that can be obtained from the Kama Sutra, let me share with you my impression of the book and how it could help the average joe attain sexual fulfillment.

First of all, the Kama Sutra was originally written not for those in the western world, which means many of the stories and descriptions you will come across while reading the book are related with the Indian culture. Even the English versions are filled with Indian terms that, while described or explained, may be confusing to the reader. I recommend purchasing the illustrated (colored) version if all you want to see are the positions.

Secondly, the book is more a relationship guide than a sex manual, even if the chapters on sex positions are the most compelling among the many chapters discussing marriage and relationships in the ancient Indian times. Any person currently involved in an intimate relationship could use the lessons on sex and intimacy.

1. Building Rapport with a Woman

In a sense, the Kama Sutra is one of the earliest manuals on how to attract women, the many ways to build rapport and how to start a sexual relationship with a woman who may have been introduced to you by a common friend. Several chapters in the Kama Sutra are devoted to the processes involved in the ‘acquisition of wife’. In modern times, we call this ‘looking for a woman to date’.

It is important to maintain a modern mindset when reading the Kama Sutra, which means you should always think of modern situations where you can apply the dating advice.

2. Revitalizing a Weakening Sex Drive

Some chapters in the Kama Sutra are extremely relevant to those with sexual dysfunction problems, especially if the root cause of the sexual problems is psychological. The same chapters discuss self-identity, rekindling arousal and ways to become more attractive to the opposite sex.

3. Sex Positions

The chapters that really got me reading are the ones on sex positions. Browsing through the many ways to make love made me feel like I knew so little about sex prior to reading the book. From oral coitus to penetration, the positions are described in detail.

Most of the advice you will read on sex positions emphasize the need for two-way pleasure. This means no sex position should be beneficial only to one partner, and both partners should feel an equal amount of pleasure whatever position they use.

Kundalini Yoga could be described as the process of self-healing; it is the privilege of every human being. Self-healing is not a miracle, nor is it a question of being able to do something that another person cannot. Self-healing is a process that occurs through the relationship between the physical and the infinite power of the soul. It is a contract, a union – that is the science of Kundalini Yoga.

Yoga means "yoke," or "union and practicing Kundalini Yoga Provides us with the scientific technology for merging, or yoking, our individual consciousness, and creating a divine union. The goal of Kundalini Yoga is to give you a hands-on experience of your highest consciousness.

Kundalini Yoga, the yoga of awareness, is the "instruction manual" that we need to live a healthy, peaceful, fulfilling and conscious life. Kundalini yoga is the ancient technology for happiness, and it provides this happiness by balancing the glandular system, strengthening the nervous system, and enabling us to harness the energy of the mind and emotions, so we can be in control of ourselves rather than being controlled by our thoughts and feelings. It increases our radiance and the impact we have on others, it promotes a general sense of relaxation and well being, it promotes emotional balance and intuition, it helps to eliminate negative habit patterns. In short, the benefits impact all aspects of our physical, mental, and spiritual being.

Kundalini Yoga is a very complete science,and deals with the physical body, the triad of body-mind-spirit, and the subtle energies of the body, such as prana (life energy) and the chakras (energy centres of the body). It works on these different aspects of our being by using mental focus, breathing techniques, mantras (sound vibrations), postures (body positions), mudras (hand positions) and relaxation to scientifically provide a more happy, healthy and holy way of life for each person who practices it.

It has been said that with Kundalini Yoga there is no such thing as "past". Past experiences are recorded in our subconscious mind and on a daily basis they effect our actions and outlook on life, Kundalini Yoga cleans our subconscious mind so that we are no longer "victims" of the past.

The Ascencion, (representing the vision of enlightenment, or God head).

In addition, Kundalini Yoga is the best yoga for the everyday person, since it give results in the shortest time without requiring that we live an ascetic life, removed from the day-to-day world. We are changing from the Piscean Age (the last 2000 years) to the Age of Aquarius, and Kundalini Yoga is the perfect tool for this new age. In the past religious leaders and prophets shared their experiences of God with people, but individuals did not experience Higher Consciousness directly themselves. In the Age of Aquarius, people want to have a personal experience of Higher Consciousness. We can experience this within ourselves and achieve self-healing and self-mastery through the connection with our own soul provided by Kundalini Yoga.

My personal learning involved the Kundalini Energy and the activation of the Chakras as written in the Tantra’s. Reading and learning the teachings for Reiki, The Dr Usui traditional method, and consequentially becoming a second-degree practitioner further enhanced my learning.

Meditation is the key to fulfillment, it allows us to take the time to clear the mind and put things in their proper perspective, and to allow us to seek and feel our inner self, the real person within each of us.

Meditation can take many forms, essentially a quiet time for reflection in any way that suits the individual.

My personal method is a quiet room that has no direct sunlight, at a time when I know there will be no interruptions or distractions.

I set the atmosphere by burning incense or fragrant oils, I have soft soothing music, wear nothing, or as little as possible and have it loose in order to have no pressure on any part of the body. I set aside at least one hour every day, but it has stretched out to several hours when needed.

I plan my time for meditation as I have found it to be one of the most important aspects of my life, as important as earning the almighty dollar in order to survive in the material world. It would be ideal, I think, if we could allow our spirituality to override our materialistic endeavours, however we are victims of our environment, therefore we must find a balance between the world we live in, and the world we should be living in.

For me the benefit of meditation is the increased spiritual awareness and development of the body-mind-spirit connection by activating the "Chakras" and opening the "Kundalini" channels, allowing what I call cosmic energy to flow through my whole being.

It takes a reasonable amount of practice and a lot of faith in yourself to achieve a result, for myself I have been able to acquire an absolute feeling of well being and peace, along with an increased sense of universal energy and awareness, which, for me, seems to grow stronger all the time.

Meditation is a powerful tool developed thousands of years ago by yogis to awaken the God (Higher Consciousness) within us. God already exists within each of us, so meditation is not to find God, but rather to become aware of God. Another way of talking about this is to say that through meditation, we are taken from duality to an infinite reality. In the words of Yogi Bhajan, "There is harmony, peace and tranquillity for those who go inside themselves into their shining purity. Going within does not mean that you have to leave the universe and become isolated, antisocial or rude. Power, energy, and life belong to those who complete themselves inside".

Perhaps some of us will balk at the use of the word "God." There are many words we can use which mean the same thing, such as infinity, higher consciousness, ecstasy – The choice of words does not matter as much as the strength of the desire to awaken within us that which Generates, Organizes and then Delivers or destroys all creation. This desire within us is also called the "urge to merg". Meditation is a way of fulfilling the urge to merge that exists in all of us.

The benefits of meditation are many, and range from very lofty to very practical, but meditation must be experienced to begin to understand its benefits. Through meditation we are able to connect with our inner sense of being spiritual human beings, and therefore we become more deeply contented and fulfilled. Through meditation we can purify our thoughts and strengthen their projection, and then use this clarity and projection for prayerful purposes, such as healing us and/or others, or unravelling difficult problems that perhaps had seemed unsolvable. Through meditation we can silence our "monkey mind" which is constantly jumping from one thought to another to another, since the mind generates one thousand thoughts per wink of an eye. Then we become silently receptive and intuitive. Meditation can clear the mind of fears, so that we can absorb, compute, and act wisely and neutrally in response to situations, rather than reacting and being ruled by conscious and subconscious emotions. Fears and anger begin to lose their hold over us. Meditation awakens the mind to the infinite capacity of the soul for sacrifice, service, and creativity. Meditation can also lower blood pressure and be very energizing, since the body is a chemical organism and meditation actually changes the chemistry of the brain.

In the open The mind has different layers of consciousness, and the first level is the conscious mind, which is made up of three parts.
These parts are the positive mind, the negative mind, and the neutral mind. Throughout our daily life we are bombarded with many stimuli, which become part of conscious mind, whether we like it or not. After the conscious mind comes the next layer, the subconscious mind, and stimuli from our daily existence is also stored here. Like any storage area, it can become dirty and dusty if not constantly cleaned. That is what meditation does – it cleans and dusts our conscious and subconscious mind, making us brighter and shinier! Furthermore, if our subconscious mind becomes filled, things will flow over into our unconscious mind. It is much better to avoid this, since it is extremely difficult to clean and repair the unconscious mind. Because of this cleaning process, contrary to ideas some people have about meditation, it is not constantly blissful and pleasant. Meditation cleans old fears, buried anger, and negative thoughts from the different layers of our mind. This process is painful, but it is necessary, and it is better to do this with meditation than in therapy. We would not go for days without washing our bodies with water, why should we go days without washing our minds with meditation?

Negative vibrations or stimuli in our day create blocks of negative energy, and these blocks pile up, forming walls of negativity all around us, walls that separate us from experiencing the God inside us, it is this sense of separation which makes us unhappy. By meditating, we are replacing negative vibrations with positive ones, and the "walls" come tumbling down and happiness returns. Until you control the mind, you can’t get beyond it to liberation, liberation is the experience of your own infinity, and lies beyond the mind.

Meditation works, and is one of the most powerful, safe, and effective means of becoming a complete and spiritual human. Happiness is not dependant upon any outside person or event or thing. We are responsible for our own happiness.
As Yogi Bhajan says " A mental condition can change instantly, the physical takes longer". Try it, you will see for yourself.

How to Meditate

The ability to meditate is within us all, it is a natural state of consciousness, we have no need to learn it, and it is as natural as our ability to breathe. When the mind becomes "one-pointed" and quiet, it will go beyond the normal day to day awareness into the state referred to as meditation.

Regularity is the key

To be effective, meditation requires a degree of regularity e.g. time, place, and practice are most important, it allows the mind to be more focused. The mind seems to be particularly active when you try to concentrate, but just like any habit, it can be picked up through constant practice, allowing the mind to focus more rapidly, once regularity has been established.

The pose shown in the photo above is known simply as the sitting position, try to be comfortable and keep your back straight, relax, with your hands resting lightly on the knees. Brain activity, breathing and heartbeat will all slow, allowing you to relax even more, as you relax you will be able to enter the meditative state.

Now that you have come this far, you will find detailed information about opening or activating the Kundalini, Most of what you will read here is used in the teaching and practice of Reiki, Whilst the purpose is different, the end result, with practice, will be the awakening of spiritual energy.

The text and diagrams are from a publication used for teaching Reiki students, but the exercises are basically the same in several different spiritual disciplines.

There are many, if not hundreds of publications available on this subject, some of which I have listed on another page, All having slightly different views of the same thing, I have chosen to use this one simply because it works for me.

Read on…

The material of this chapter is very ancient, going back to the Sanskrit and Tantric Buddhist teachings. These teachings were old at the time of Jesus, and he brought some of them to early Christianity.

For almost two thousand years they have been lost to the West and are now being reintroduced, as some of the planet’s oldest knowledge and civilizations are threatened with extinction and loss. They are methods known by various names in different Eastern countries. I do not know when or how these exercises were integrated to become part of advanced Reiki teaching. Nor do I know who developed the attunement method I use that employs them. The material may actually have been an original part of Reiki, since Mikao Usui seemed fully trained in Buddhist learning and aware of the ancient Sutras.

By understanding the energy channels of the body, the healer understands how Reiki enters and moves through her. By working to expand these Reiki channels, she increases her ability as a healer. By learning to control the energy flows, the healer becomes a Reiki adept now able to transmit that energy to others. That transmission is the Reiki attunement process, and the energy exercises of this chapter train your body to carry it. The ability to contain and transmit heightened amounts of Ki and the techniques to make use of the energy are what comprise the Reiki attunements and make a Reiki Master. The exercises of this chapter begin that process.

The nature of this energy and how it moves through the body is the nature of life itself Channeler Barbara Marciniak, in her awareness raising book "Bringers of the Dawn" (Bear & Co., 1992) calls the life force energy "Light" (what in Japan is called Ki) and defines it as "information". She states that human DNA, the carrier of "Light," or Ki or information, was once twelve stranded where now it is only a double helix strand. In the nature of human evolution today, we are learning to tap into the coded information/Ki and to reconnect with what we have lost.

This energy work of re connection is happening right now, and primarily happening in those people aware of Ki (or Light) and how to use it. The methods of opening and channeling Ki are very ancient (Vajrayana Buddhism, Hinduism, Ch’i Kung) but being re discovered at this time, as the need is being re discovered. By opening the Light or Ki channels and learning how the life force works, new information begins to open as well.

This new information is the greatest potential for human growth since the Tantric God/Goddess Shiva brought Reiki to this planet.

The life force (Ki) is being accessed in new ways with ancient methods, and its vehicle for transforming humanity is-as one of its several avenues Reiki. There is a saying that "There is nothing new under the sun". We are returning home to ancient ways, as the route to becoming modern. Re connecting human DNA and reclaiming our heritage as Light Be-ings (Light in the definition of Ki or information), is almost a metaphor for Reiki. Returning Reiki to as many on the planet as choose to open them selves and use it, is returning the twelve stranded DNA and the Ki/Light/information we have lost.

Several ancient esoteric systems energy-channelling systems are now being revealed for the first time in the West. For the first time the rules of secrecy and mystification are being set aside, as the urgent need for healing of people and the planet grows. Wiccan teachings, Hindu and Buddhist teachings, the early Christianity of the Dead Sea Scrolls, the methods of Kundalini and Tantric meditation, and of the Asian Ch’i Kung are newly available for anyone to read and understand. With oral tradition inoperative in the modern world in favor of books and television, and with a culture that is rapidly destroying its roots, such opening up is necessary for the survival of the learning. It is also necessary to re-spiritualize Earth people to give their lives value and meaning. Re-spiritualizing means saving the Earth, re connecting the DNA, and learning who we really are.

Reiki plays a vital part in this process. The healing system reconnects people with their Earthly and Heavenly Ki (their connection to Earth and the stars), and reopens abilities humans have for many centuries forgotten. Learning the nature of these abilities, what they are, and how and why they happen, means learning the nature of the life force. The ancient energy methods being reclaimed and revised for a new time and culture are the keys to Reiki, and Reiki is the key to transmitting them universally to the Earth. No other method of working with Ki and the Light/information/energy system of the human body is so effortless and simple.

While it may not have been important a hundred years ago to know what the Reiki attunement and energy really do in the body, there is an urgency today that requires that we know. By making use of the Ki energy channels and developing them, we also reconnect the missing strands of DNA and reconnect our bodies, minds and spirits. By knowing how and why, we open the way to learning more. Though part of Reiki’s magic and beauty lies in its simplicity, the information (Ki/Light) must be available to any who wish to understand it. In writing this chapter, I will do my best to present the information, as I understand it.

The first concept is the circulation of Ki through the body. Ch’i is the life force energy, called Prana in India and Ch’i in China. In terms of Kundalini Yoga (from India), Prana means "breath", but also is defined as "a body of energy acting as the medium for carrying consciousness". Consciousness is the animating force of be-ing, without which there can be no life. In yogic traditions, Prana is always symbolized by the Mother Goddess, called Shakti-Kundalini, the feminine quality of existence that births consciousness into form. The study of the movement of Shakti-Kundalini through the body is called Kundalini Yoga, and the use of breath to regulate Prana is called Pranayama Yoga. Tantra Yoga is another method of working with the Prana/Ki energy channels.

Shakti-Kundalini in Asia is the Yin principle, represented by Earthly Ch’i. In Japan and China, the movement of Prana or Ki is based upon intention, the concept that Ki can be regulated in the body and moved by way of mind force. Buddhist teaching states that all reality is created through the action/intention of Mind upon the Void. The "Ki" in "Reiki" is the Goddess of consciousness, the life force energy, and the connecting link between the physical, energy and spirit bodies.

The intention to move Ki is expressed when a Reiki healer puts his/her hands down to do healing, it turns the energy on.

A more focused and conscious intention is required to pass the Reiki attunements. Ki comes from the Heavens and the Earth, and is the enlivening force of Be-ing. Along with Heavenly and Earthly Ki, all people are born with Original Ki, the life force instilled in us at conception. While Earthly and Heavenly Ki are drawn into the body from without, Original Ki is inward, and is stored in the space between the navel and the Belly Chakra, in front of the kidneys (Door of Life), in the center of the body. The Hara is the Japanese name for this storage space. It is called the Triple Warmer in China and the Sacral Center in India. Both Asia and India describe the energy channels by which Ki (or Prana or Ch’i) enter and circulate through the body. Both systems begin with a primary central channel, flanked by a pair of channels that move energy in opposite directions. These channels follow the line of the spinal column vertically through the body. They branch to become the body’s entire electrical "wiring" system. India describes the chakras as being rooted in the etheric central power line (Sushumna), and this lines energy is repeated on the bodies beyond the etheric double. There is a chakra system on each of the bodies, on the etheric double, the emotional body, and the mental and spiritual levels.

China considers the paired directional channels to be the main trunk of the acupuncture meridians. Branching from these primary channels are all of the large and small acupuncture lines, what in India are called the Nadis. These are the nerve channels of the etheric body, and they reach into the physical level. Divided further from the Nadis is the physical central nervous system, the autonomic system of the body. The meridians or nervous system channels end in the Seketsu (Japanese word), the reflexology points of the hands and feet. This network of branching channels is the bridge between the etheric double and the physical body, as well as between the etheric double and the higher vibrational bodies. Imagine it as a branching tree, and it becomes familiar as the Tree of Life, a symbol used in many cultures.

The three primary channels in India are called the Kundalini, generally considered to be located on the etheric double. The great central channel running vertically through the body, along the spinal column from Crown to Root chakra, is called the Sushumna. It is the connection between the energies of Earth and Universe, and contains a neutral energy charge. On the physical level, this is the spinal cord and central nervous system. On the etheric double level, the chakras are located along the Sushumna line. The pair of opposite moving channels are known in India as the Ida and Pingala, or sometimes as the Shakti and Shiva. These move in an intertwining path along the Sushumna, the energies crossing at the points between the chakras. Ida is feminine and has a downward movement on the front of the body, while Pingala is masculine and rises upward along the spine.

In China, Japan and other Asian countries the three channels are given different names and emphases to describe the same concepts. The central channel, with the focus on its position beyond the physical and etheric double levels, is the Hara Line in Japan. The pair of energy lines that move one on each side of it are called the Conception (or Functional) Vessel and the Governing (or Governor) Vessel. These are the Great Central Channels that are called Ida and Pingala in India. The Conception Vessel is feminine (Yin), and has a minus energy charge. It begins at the perineum or Hui Yin point (more on this later), and moves upward through the front of the body to end just below the lower lip. The Governing Vessel is masculine (Yang), and carries the opposite plus charge. It also begins at the perineum (between genitals and anus physically), and moves up the back of the body along the spinal cord. It ends at the top of the upper lip.

Where in India the energy points along the central channel are known as chakras (etheric double), in Asia key acupuncture points are instead mapped along the two central energy flow lines. The chakras are de-emphasized, and are considered minor centers. It is my belief and interpretation that this is because the emphasis of the channels is not placed on the etheric double where the chakras are, but on the deeper Hara Line. The Asian key acupuncture points correspond with the places between the chakras where the Conception and Governing Vessel (Ida and Pingala) meet in their Ki circulatory movement. These points are also the "new" chakras described earlier, and they and the central channel (Sushumna on the Hara level) form the Hara Line. The movement of Ki or Prana in both systems is described as having a spiraling movement, and a pattern that resembles the life molecule DNA.

The discipline of moving Ki or Prana through these energy channels is called opening the Kundalini in India, and has other names and discipline systems in India and Tibet. In the Asian countries the discipline is called Ch’i Kung (or Qi Gong). There are some differences in how the energy is moved in these systems. Replenishing the life force is the major goal for doing so in Asia, and spiritual growth and transcending the body is the first intent in India and Tibet. In India, the process is that of moving the Prana energy upwards from the Root to the Crown chakras. Once Shakti and Shiva meet at the Crown, the energy is expected to release from the Crown or return along the pathway by which it came. In Asia, the downward path is given as much attention as the upward movement. This result’s in less negative symptoms caused by the back lash of more energy than the body can handle.

Unawakened Kundalini rests at the base of the spine, coiled in a spiraled serpent form, She is Kundalini Shakti power consciousness. When she awakens, she rises along the Sushumna through the chakras to unite above the Crown chakra with Shiva pure consciousness. The union is described as bliss and is the transcendence of the body and the fusion of Earth with heaven. For Tantrists, this is union with the Goddess and with the oneness of all life. The duality of the earth-plane is resolved into the bliss of union and oneness, "As above, so below."

In Ch’i Kung, where the energy pathway is directed in a circle rather than upwards only, the goal is for using the life force efficiently for health and long life. Spiritual awakening comes later. Practicing the energy circle daily is said to be a cure for almost any dis-ease because it heals energy blockages and weaknesses anywhere in the body, and brings Ki to all the organs. Ch’i Kung works with the Conception and Governing Vessels (the Ida and Pingala), instead of the central Sushumna that is focused upon in India. The circular path results in a grounded ending to each session, rather than allowing a heavy rush of Ki into the upper chakras. This prevents "overheating the brain," emotional problems and hallucinatory experiences, and provides a safety valve that using the Sushumna lacks. By moving energy through two channels in opposite directions, any excess energy is safely grounded or released.

What does this mean in terms of Reiki? Reiki also works by bringing Ki/Ch’i/Prana through the body. The energy moves through the primary channels the Hara Line, Conception and Governing Vessel sand through the branching energy pathways to the hands. The Reiki attunement opens and clears the three primary channels, and the chakras as well, directing and increasing the flow. It clears and opens the energy on both etheric double (Sushumna) and Hara levels. Each succeeding attunement after Reiki I increase’s the channels capacities for holding and transmitting Ki, first in healing and then in passing attunements. It is by manipulation of Ki through the Conception and Governing Vessels that enough electrical energy is held in the Masters body to transmit the Reiki attunements.

Reiki is a Kundalini discipline

With Reiki II, the healer begins to manipulate this energy, increasing his/her body’s ability to channel and hold it. In India, Tibet and Japan the discipline was only one part of the years of training in all the Tantric practices. By the time a Reiki II healer has become experienced with the energy level of the Second Degree, he/she has reached a place of attainment in his/her capacity to work with this energy. Whether he/she is conscious of it or not, the energy channels are open and flowing, and when he/she does healing, a strong amount of Ki passes through him/her. When he/she reaches Reiki III, however, he/she must learn to transmit the energy at will and become conscious of the process. This is the goal of the Ki Exercises that follow, to increase the body’s capacity for holding this energy, and to make the process conscious. Later in Reiki III, the act of Mind and intent are added.

There first needs to be awareness of the energy flow pattern, which Ch’i Kung terms The Microcosmic Orbit. This is the basis in Ch’i Kung for all energy work, and I will discuss it briefly. I have chosen exercises in the Ch’i Kung method rather than in Kundalini Yoga because of the completed energy circuit used in Ch’i Kung, which prevents problems from electrical overload, and is vastly safer to do unsupervised. A lot of energy can be generated with it quickly, without discomfort or risk.

Tantric Kundalini techniques also duplicate the exercises given here.

For serious work with the Microcosmic Orbit, I recommend two books by Mantak Chia: Awaken Healing Energy Through the Tao (Aurora Press, 1983), and Mantak and Maneewan Chia’s Awaken Healing Light of the Tao (Healing Tao Books, 1993). My information on Ch’i Kung is mostly from these sources. The Microcosmic Orbit connects the Conception and Governing Vessel channels to make a completed energy circle through the body. It does so by two movements, both of which are vital for Reiki III. The first is to connect the channels at the bottom (Root chakra) of the body by means of the Hui Yin position, the closing of the perineum. The second movement connects the channels at the top of the body, and this is done by placing the tongue on the roof of the mouth behind the teeth. These are discussed more thoroughly later

The path of energy movement in the Microcosmic Orbit is the beginning and basis of the Reiki Ki exercises. It is done in meditation, similar to doing distance healing, but with the energy focused inward. Begin by placing your attention on the navel or Hara. When warmth (Ki) begins to build at the Hara, move it by mind intent down to the perineum (Hui Yin, Root chakra) behind the genitals, and then up into the spinal cord. Stop for a moment at the Kidney point (Ming-Men), and then raise the energy/Ki slowly up the spine to the top of the head (pineal gland, Crown). Follow the energy flow, do not force it. Hold this energy at the Crown for up to ten minutes, and then direct it downward to the forehead/Brow (pituitary, Third Eye). Flow the energy down the front of the body to the Hara/Navel again. Hold it at the Hara until the warmth collects, then start the Orbit again, moving it next to the Root.

Repeat the circle several times. Increase with practice to thirty-six Orbits per session.

When you are proficient with the above, include the legs and Earth connection. From the navel, direct the energy flow to the Hui Yin (Root), then dividing it into two channels send Ki down the back of the thighs to the back of the knees. From there it flows down the calves of the legs to the soles of the feet. The K-i acupuncture point (Yung-Chuan) on both soles is the location of the chakras in the feet. The point is called Bubbling Spring and is the body’s electrical connection with Earth energy. Once warmth builds in the soles, move the energy to the big toes, then up the front of both feet to the knees, drawing energy from the Earth through the soles. Continue the flow up the insides of the thighs and back to the Hui Yin behind the genitals.

Return the flow up the spine and divide it again for the arms at a point between the shoulder blades. Send Ki down the inside of both arms to the middle of the palms, the place where Reiki flows from when healing. Concentrate on the sensation, and then follow the flow along the middle finger and up the outside of the arms. When it reaches the shoulders it returns to the main circuit and flows up the spine and neck to the Crown again. Continue the energy circuit along the central channel, returning it to the Hara.

When finished with moving the energy, complete the Microcosmic Orbit meditation by grounding it. This is extremely important and must be done at the end of every session, whether you have done one energy circuit or many. With the energy at the starting and stopping place of the Hara, place your fist lightly over your navel area. Rub it in a spiral of no more than six inches width. Women move the spiral counter clockwise thirty-six times, and then reverse it to go clockwise twenty-four times. Men move it in the opposite direction, clockwise thirty Six times, then counter clockwise for twenty-four. This grounds and collects the energy, preventing electrical overload and discomfort

The Microcosmic Orbit described above is the foundation for the two Ki exercises that follow. The exercises were taught to me as part of Reiki II in 1989. I had no knowledge at that time of their origin or of the Microcosmic Orbit, and was delighted to discover them in print while researching this. These Ki exercises are known to both Kundalini Yoga and to Ch’i Kung, and are considered major practices in both disciplines. They were probably brought to China and Asia from India and Tibet.

The reason for doing the exercises is to increase the body’s ability to receive and channel Ki. It requires a much increased energy capacity to pass the Reiki attunements, and the exercises are a preparation for doing so. If you are not planning to take Reiki III training, you may skip doing these, but I hope most students of Reiki will become Reiki III’s. The exercises have much in the way of spirituality, and health increasing value in themselves.

There is one final note before beginning the exercises, and this involves the sacredness of the body. While many metaphysical disciplines work to transcend the physical, it is important to realize also that the body is magical and sacred. Buddhists believe that the resolution of karma can only be accomplished while incarnated, and certainly Reiki can be done only in body. In this age of the breaking down of civilizations to make way for a healed planet, there are too many things on Earth that pollute and damage the body, mind and spirit. Many of these are unavoidable, we have no choice but to breathe the air, drink the water, and eat contaminated food, as nothing else is available to us.

We do, however, have some control in other things. Many healers believe, as I do, that a smoker or recreational drugs user, can never be a fully clear channel for Reiki, nor can an abuser of alcohol. Never do healing or pass attunements when under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These states at any time invite in negative entities and attachments unwelcome in healing. They are wholly negative for the healer. Never do healing or pass attunements when you are angry or more than slightly ill. If you wish to quit smoking or break addictions to alcohol or drugs, Reiki and the Microcosmic Orbit are powerful self-healing tools. Remember that as a Reiki practitioner, you are a sacred channel for the life force energy of the Goddess Universe.

Exercise One

Begin with the meditative state, and start the Microcosmic Orbit. Feel or visualize Ki as fire energy (Raku) and move it from the Hara (navel) to the Hui Yin (perineum), then up the spine to the Crown Bring the energy down the front of the body to the Hara again. Directions are given from this point that are different for women and men. Do not visualize the Reiki symbols with this exercise.

For Women:

Begin with the root lock, the Hui Yin position, which will be discussed fully in the next exercise. To use it for this one, begin by sitting on the floor with the heel of one foot pressed against the vagina and clitoris. Use a firm, steady pressure, which can also be achieved by sitting with a small pillow held between the legs, a tennis ball, or even a larger sized crystal. Place your tongue against the roof of your mouth behind the teeth. This position is the basis for most Kundalini Yoga and Ch’i Kung work, including the Microcosmic Orbit. Use of the pillow is a Zen-Japanese Buddhist) technique. You may feel heat or orgasm from the pressure.

Next raise energy in your hands, by rubbing them together or starting the flow of Reiki, until they are warm. Cover and press your uncovered breasts with the palms of your warmed hands, beginning to massage them in an up and outward direction. Do this eighteen times without stimulating the nipples, and become aware of the flow of Ki to the vagina, pineal and pituitary glands (Root, Crown and Third Eye). The upward rotation is called dispersion. Stop with the fingers lightly touching the nipples and flow the energy from breasts, vagina, Crown and Third Eye into the Heart chakra. Repeat the set of eighteen massage circles two to four times, flowing Ki to the Heart after each set.

Then do the rotations in the opposite direction, moving down and inward instead of up and out. Gather the energy into the nipples, and move it to the spine at the back of the breasts. Next move it down to the Kidney Point. Do two to four sets of eighteen circles. The inward rotation is called inversion.

Move your hands from the breasts to the Kidney Point at the back of the body, behind the lower ribs. Massage and lightly shake the area nine to eighteen times, then stop. Do this set of motions two to four times, resting at the end of each set. Feel the heat in the kidney area. Move your hands again, this time massaging the lower abdomen from the groin to the ovaries. Massage the liver and gall bladder area on the right side under the lower ribs, and the spleen on the left side

Do outward then inward massage motions, thirty-six times for each position. Massage the vaginal area next, to gather in the energy; Pause and feel the Ki expand.
Place the right hand on your vagina and left hand over your Heart center, and draw the resulting sensation of universal love into your heart.
Draw in Earth energy and continue the Microcosmic Orbit, ending by gathering the energy into the Hara. This completes the first exercise for women.

There are more benefits to this exercise than expanding the Kundalini channels. Most spiritual disciplines work in some way to direct sexual energy upward to the Crown. Sexual energy is Original Ki and its loss decreases life force vitality; shortening life spans and reducing optimal health. This energy is lost through menstruation, ovulation and the sexual act. The exercise above recycles this energy, increasing Original Ki for the benefit of body, mind and spirit. Combining sexual energy with heart energy develops compassion, and brings a sense of peace, well being and delight.

The breast rotations also serve to balance women’s hormonal processes, with sometimes-dramatic results. Dispersion rotations can cause menopause symptoms to disappear, with the explanation that "the blood is turned back". Women with cystic breasts find that the dispersion rotations may reduce or eliminate the lumps. Doing only dispersion rotations may decrease breast size. Use rotations in the inversion direction to increase breast size, but avoid these if you have breast lumps or menopausal discomfort. For most women, doing both rotations (the same number in each direction) balances the hormones without changing breast size.

Another possible result of doing these exercises daily is the "turning back of the blood" itself For some women, estrogen levels can decrease enough to stop the menstruation cycle. In esoteric philosophy this is considered positive, as it means the sexual Ki has been recycled, diverted to the Crown. This is probably not reliable enough for birth control in most women. If menses stop and pregnancy is wanted, discontinue the exercises or go to a lower number of rotations (under a hundred per day). There are no known ill effects from these exercises. They stop the biological clock and enhance creativity and mental awareness.
The exercise may be done twice a day, morning and evening. Do no less than thirty-six rotations and no more than three hundred and sixty per session. Start with a smaller number and increase gradually.

For Men:

This exercise is also best done without clothing, and begun in the meditative state with the Microcosmic Orbit. Do not visualize the Reiki symbols while doing it, or the Raku (fire energy). To do so causes over stimulation and discomfort. If this happens, return the excess energy to the Earth, and use the Microcosmic Orbit finishing spirals to gather the Ki into the Hara. The Hui Yin position and how to connect the Conception and Governing Vessels for the Orbit are discussed later in this chapter. Also read Exercise One for women before beginning.

Start by raising energy in your hands; rub them together quickly or start the flow of Reiki when your hands are warm, massage and lightly shake the kidneys nine to eighteen times. Stop and notice the warmth. Using mind power, inhale into the kidneys, and then exhale the Ki into the Kidney Point. Do this two to four times. Become aware of the energy connection between the kidneys and the genitals.

Raise energy in your hands again. Cup the testicles lightly, without squeezing, covering them in your right palm. Massage the testicles eighteen to thirty-six times. Stop, and feel the Ki gather in the testicles. Hold the testicles in the left palm, and place your right palm over the Hara. Using light pressure, massage with your right hand clockwise around the navel thirty six to eighty-one times. Changes hands and repeat, first raising energy in your hands again. Massage the Hara counter clockwise this time, thirty-six to eighty-one times. The right palm cups the testicles. Move both palms to cover the genitals. Feel the stimulation in the organs and contract the muscles to gather the energy. Stop and feel the energy expand. With the right hand on the testicles, place the left hand over the Heart center. Draw universal love energy into your heart. Continue the Microcosmic Orbit, returning the energy to the Hara, and ending the exercise with the finishing spirals.

There are several purposes for this exercise. The first is in increasing compassion by connecting the heart and sexual organs. A second major benefit is in recycling sexual or Original Ki for longer life and fuller optimal health. The sexual organs themselves are strengthened. Prostate problems, premature ejaculation, and other sexual difficulties may be relieved. Circling energy through the Microcosmic Orbit heals all the organs and balances energy blockages anywhere in the body. Spiritual awareness is raised, and the mind, body and spirit are unified. The exercise also develops a heightened sense of inner peace, security and well being, it sparks an increase in creativity, mental awareness and spiritual growth.

Exercise Two…The Hui Yin Position

The Hui Yin position connects the Conception and Governing Vessels at the top and bottom of the body. Without this position, Ki moves through the channels in opposite directions, in and then out in a straight line flow. Contracting the Hui Yin allows Ki to move in a complete circuit through the body, and is the propelling force for energy movement in the Microcosmic Orbit. The Orbit cannot be completed or Ki activated without it. This is also the means by which Ki is propelled through the Reiki Masters body to transmit attunements in the method of initiation I use and teach. The Ki exercises are not used in the Traditional Reiki attunement process. In passing Reiki attunements, the Hui Yin position is one of the major differences between nontraditional and Traditional Reiki.

In Traditional initiations, four attunements must be passed to each student in the First and one in the Second Degree. With the Hui Yin contraction, and the nontraditional method that activates the Hara Line, only one combined attunement is required for each degree. Reiki III involves a single attunement in both methods. While both initiation processes work, I believe that activating the Hara Line to pass attunements is more powerful. Many of my students who have received the attunements both ways have commented on this, and I have felt it for myself also, the need to pass four attunements severely limits the number of students per class and increases the length of class time significantly. In order to bring Reiki to as many people as possible, and to teach at women’s festivals where there are large groups, the fewer attunements needed the better. The third reason for the newer method lies in its simplicity. There are four different attunements to learn for Traditional Reiki I, a different one for Reiki II, and another one again for Reiki III. With the method I use, only one combined attunement is required for each degree and it is done in the same way for all three levels. The necessity of learning the Hui Yin position for any student planning to take Reiki III training is evident. I do not know who developed the method for passing attunements that I use, or who developed it with the Ch’i Kung exercises. Until now, Reiki has been an oral tradition.

The Hui Yin position is another example of turning sexual energy into spirituality; and of activating and replenishing Original Ki. It is a basic feature of Kundalini Yoga, Pranayama Yoga, Tantra Yoga and Ch’i Kung, and I have seen it discussed in a number of books on these subjects. By contracting the perineum, the Conception and Governing Vessels are connected at the bottom of the body. This results in the temporary closing of the Root chakra, or the Root chakra equivalent on the Hara Line. Instead of Ki leaving the body through the feet it moves upward, and sexual energy is diverted to the Crown.

In Kundalini Yoga, the position is known as the Root Lock or Moolbond. Placing pressure on the vagina as described in the first Ki exercise creates a posture called Siddhasana, the posture of accomplishment. It is considered the optimal meditation position for spiritual growth; the pressure is made by placing the heel of the foot (or a pillow or other object) against the vagina or anus, or the perineum in between them. The closing of the Hui Yin (perineum point) brings Earthly Ki upward into the Hara, while at the same time drawing Heavenly Ki downward to the Hara, as well. When the two energies meet, they generate heat that moves to the base of the spine (coccyx, Root chakra), releasing Kundalini energy.

Exercise Two teaches the student to contract the Hui Yin without external pressure, closing the perineum by muscular contraction. This is necessary, because it must be employed in passing the attunements while the Reiki Master/Teacher is standing and moving around. The position is absolutely necessary for passing Reiki attunements in the nontraditional method I teach. Also note, however, that for the student with handicaps that prevent her from using it, the Reiki guides intervene and the attunements may still be passed correctly. First locate the physical muscles involved. They are between the genitals and the anus on both women and men, and are an acupuncture point known as CV-1 (Conception Vessel-1). They are the place of the episiotomy in childbirth, and of women’s Kegel exercises. (Contracting the Hui Yin is a Kegel exercise.) In Chi Kung it is known as the Gate of Life and Death.

The second part of the position is to place your tongue on the roof of your mouth, just behind the teeth. This connects the Conception and Governing Vessels at the top of the body, as the perineum contraction does it at the Root. There are three possible placements on the palate to do this from, but the simplest is the furthest to the front, and called the Wind Position. Only light pressure is needed, just touch the palate with the tongue tip and keep it in place while doing the exercise. This also must be done while passing Reiki attunements.

From a seated position, begin working with these energies. Instruction is again given for women and for men. Do not visualize the Reiki symbols while doing the exercises at this time, wait for the attunement process in Reiki III.

For Women:

While sitting in a straight chair or on the floor, contract the muscles of the vagina and the anus. It is probably easier to contract the anus muscles first; the vaginal muscles will follow. Contract the anus as if you were trying to draw your rectum up into your body. Contract the vaginal muscles as if trying to stop the flow of urine.

If you have ever done Kegel exercises after childbirth, for bladder incontinence, or to stimulate orgasm, the exercise is familiar. The contraction happens anatomically in the Pubococcygeus muscle. When both openings are contracted correctly, it feels like air is entering the body through the rectum. Hold this position for as long as is possible and comfortable, then release. Repeat it several times. This may be hard to do at first for many women. Practicing develops muscle control, however, and the more you do it the stronger the muscles get. You will be able to hold the contraction for longer and longer amounts of time. Eventually, you will be able to hold the contraction as you go about your day, locking it into place and forgetting about it. Remember, however, that you are closing your Root chakra on the Hara Line by doing so. Release it frequently. You must be able to hold the Hui Yin, your tongue at the roof of your mouth, and your breath as well, for as long as two or three minutes at a time to pass the Reiki attunements. This is the goal of the exercise, to develop the necessary muscular control. Begin initially to do the exercise with the breath held. When the vagina is fully contracted, you will also feel the cervix contract, closing an additional energy gate. Ki immediately begins to move upward in the body along the Hara Line, and energy can no longer move downward to leave the body through the feet and internal organs. Connection is made to Earth energy, which is drawn upward into the Hara.

Next, while holding the Hui Yin position at the base of the body, place your tongue on the roof of your mouth, in the groove behind the teeth on the hard palate. Now the energy circuit is closed and the Conception and Governing Vessels are joined at both ends. You will feel the Microcosmic Orbit begin almost immediately, and this tongue position with the Hui Yin is required to do the Orbit. Now Ki moves from the Crown downward, as well as from the Earth upward. The Hara is activated, and the energy cycles through the body in what feels like a moving figure eight. This figure is also the Egyptian symbol for infinity.

Practice holding all three parts of the Hui Yin, Contract the vaginal and anus muscles, place your tongue tip on the roof of your mouth, and take and hold a deep breath. Hold this for as long as you can. Eventually, you need to be able to do it standing up. Without holding the breath, practice the Microcosmic Orbit while connecting the two ends of the Conception and Governing Vessels into an energy circle. The position makes the Microcosmic Orbit possible.

For Men:

This exercise is done in the same way for men as for women, except that only the anus is contracted. Draw the muscles up and in.

The two gates for men are located at the tip of the penis at the urethral opening, and at the base. These are the places where sexual Ki is otherwise lost from the body. Read the information for women, and do the exercise in the same way. For men and women, practice both exercises twice a day, the first thing in the morning and the last thing at night. The more use of the Microcosmic Orbit with them, the better. As you practice them for longer periods, a sense of total well-being, becomes part of daily life and many physical and emotional problems begin to clear. Doing the exercises releases endorphins in the brain, causing a natural "high". The second exercise is required for passing Reiki attunements, but the first removes energy blockages, increases spiritual awareness, and develops the body-mind-spirit connection. This is particularly true for men. For women and men both, the first Ki exercise may be important for healing reproductive difficulties and hormone imbalances.

I particularly salute the men who are developing spiritually in this era of a changing Earth. Awareness that begins with self healing is a part of the healing of all men, and a part of making the Earth a better place to live on for all Be-ings.

The Chinese Tantric texts give all the positions that we have so far looked at but really only divide positions into four kinds; man on top, woman on top, couple side by side (and face to face), and man from behind. They called these ‘Yang Superior’, ‘Yin Superior’, ‘Intimate Attachment’ and ‘Fish Sunning Itself’.

They suggested that lovemaking should be fluid and versatile; there being no set positions – the lovers just move smoothly from one position to the next without there being any moment when they could be said to be in any one position.

The Taoists also recognized the fact that all people, all couples, are physically different and that what one couple can do another may not physically be able to manage, and that there might be false expectations or disappointment if someone couldn’t manage something; they might feel that they had somehow ‘failed’.

The Taoist Positions

The Tao of Loving does describe twenty-six basic positions all of which we have covered; but the Taoists had such interesting names for their positions it’s worth looking at a few.

A Phoenix Plays In A Red Cave

The woman, Lady Yin, lies on her back and holds her legs upright with her hands and Lord Yang enters her.

Bamboo Near The Alter

The couple faces each other standing up – Intimate Attachment – and the man enters the woman. They can grip on to wherever they feel comfortable.

The Springing White Tiger

The woman kneels forwards and the man kneels behind her. He enters her and she should drop forwards so that her head is touching the ground.

Flying Birds On A Dark Sea

The woman lies on a raised platform or bed with her legs over the side. The man stands and enters her and holds her legs up.
A variation on this is the Flying Seagull where the couch or bed is much lower and the man kneels.

Dragon Faces The Mountain

The man sits in a chair, the woman, in his lap with her back to him.

The Taoist Names

Some of the Taoist terminology is wonderful – we have the ‘Jade Hammer’, the ‘Heavenly Dragon Stem’, the ‘Red Phoenix’, and the ‘Coral Stalk’ for penis. The ‘Jade Pavilion’ and ‘Palace’, the ‘Open Lotus Flower’, and the ‘Red Valley’ are for the vulva. The clitoris is the ‘Jade Pearl’ and the ‘Golden Jewel of the Jade Palace’. Sex is ‘Mist on the Mountains of Wu’, and the ‘Meeting of the Dragon and the Unicorn’ or even just the ‘Clouds and the Rain’. And an orgasm is the ‘Bursting of the Clouds’.

Manner Of The First

The woman lies down on her back with her thighs raised. The man kneels between her legs and ‘introduces his member into her’. He presses his toes into the ground and can then ‘rummage her in a convenient, measured way. This position is said to be gentle for the woman whose partner has a ‘long measure’.

Manner Of The Second

The woman lies on her back and lifts her legs into the air and brings her legs as near her head as she can. The man then kneels and enters her. This position is said to be good if the man has a ’short measure’ as it will afford the woman a degree of satisfaction.

Manner Of The third

The woman lies down and the man enters her from the kneeling position. She raises one leg only over his shoulder. This position will enable the couple to enjoy really deep penetration.

Manner Of The fourth

The woman lies down and the man enters her from the kneeling position. He then raises her legs up so that they are over his shoulders and he can grip her thighs as he thrusts deeply.

Manner Of The Fifth

Both partners lie down on their sides, facing each other. This position is good for generating feelings of warmth and love; it is very intimate.

Manner Of The Sixth

The woman kneels on all fours and then lowers her head to the ground. The man kneels behind her and enters her.

Manner Of The Seventh

The woman lies on her side and the man squats between her thighs with one of her legs on his shoulders and the other between his thighs. The man can then draw her to him by using his hands.

Manner Of The Eighth

The woman lies down on her back with her legs crossed at the knees. The man sits astride her like ‘a cavalier on horseback’ and, being on his knees, can ‘put his member into her’.

The manner Of The Ninth

The woman kneels forward being propped up on a bed or raised couch. The man kneels behind her and enters her from behind. The man can keep his legs either side of hers.

Manner Of The Tenth

The woman half lies on a low couch so that the bottom half of her body is unsupported. The man kneels in front of her and enters her. She can then use her legs around his waist to support her and he can lean forwards and grip the low couch for support.

Manner Of The Eleventh

The woman lies down on her back with a cushion under her buttocks. The man lies astride her and enters her. She should then cross her ankles over just behind and below his knees – or she can get her feet to meet together, sole to sole.

The Twenty Five Superior Indian Lovemaking Positions

The Perfumed Garden then goes on to describe the twenty-five positions of Indian lovemaking which it claims are superior to the Arabic tradition. It also warns that these shouldn’t be tried by ill or unfit couples.

The Stopperage

The woman lies on her back with a cushion under her buttocks and the man enters her from the front. He should keep his legs outstretched and she should bend her legs up so that her knees are on his chest. The Perfumed Garden says this position can be uncomfortable for the woman and should only really be tried if the man’s member is short or soft.

Frog Fashion

The woman lies on her back with her knees raised but her feet flat on the floor. The man sits with his legs around her sides. He enters her and holds on with his hands to her shoulders. Her knees should be under the man’s armpits.

With The Toes Cramped

The woman lies on her back and the man kneels and enters her from the front. He should then grip with his toes and pull her up off the ground so that her buttocks can swing freely on to the front of his thighs. Her legs can then cross behind his back and he can grip her neck with his hands.

With Legs In The Air

The woman lies on her back and the man kneels and enters her from the front. Her legs should then be supported on his shoulders and he can lean forwards.

He Goat Fashion

The woman crouches on her side and she stretches out the leg that is underneath. The man squats down between her thighs with his calves bent under him. He then lifts her uppermost leg so that it rests on his back and enters her. During this position he can take hold of the woman by her shoulders for extra leverage.

The Screw Of Archimedes

The man lies down on his back and the woman sits on him, facing him. She should then lean forwards and take her weight on her arms, positioned either side of his head. She can then slide up and down his member and, if he is agile, he can assist her by moving as well.

The Somersault

This position is really only for the very supple and very agile. The woman lies on her back with her legs up, one foot placed either side of her head and the man lies along her and enters her. It’s called the somersault because it was originally recommended that to get into this position the woman should wear a pair of "pantaloons" that she should drop so that they fit around her ankles. She should then bend forwards and put her head in them and the man should then seize her legs and somersault her into this position.

The Tail Of The Ostrich

The woman lies on her back and the man kneels in front of her and lifts up her legs until only her head and shoulders remain in contact with the ground. He then enters her, from behind, and straightens his back so that he is kneeling upright. She can then cross her ankles behind his head.

Fitting On Of The Sock

The man kneels down and the woman lies with her legs open and either side of his waist. He can lean back on his calves. He should then be able to use his member to stimulate the area around her vulva. In this position he can use his fingers to stimulate her clitoris as well.

The Perfumed Garden says that: when her vulva gets moistened with the liquid emitted from his verge she is thus amply prepared for enjoyment by the alternate coming and going of your weapon in her scabbard; put it into her in full length.

Reciprocal Sight Of The Posteriors

The man lies stretched out on his back and the woman sits down on his member with her back to him. He can press the outside of her thighs between his thighs and legs while she places her hands on the ground as a support.

The Rainbow Arch

The woman lies on her side with one leg raised. The man lies also on his side with his face towards her back. He then enters her and keeps his hands on her back. She can then reach forwards and grip his feet and bring them forwards towards her front forming him into an arch.

The Alternate Movement Of Piercing

The man sits with his legs outstretched and the woman sits facing him in his lap. He then draws his legs up under her thighs and she grips his back with her legs. He should hold her round the waist and she can support herself by leaning back on her arms. All he has to do then is move his feet together to provide all the movement and friction they will require.

Pounding On The Spot

The same basic position as the Alternate Movement of Piercing except the man keeps his legs stretched out and the woman grips him tighter round the back.

Coitus From The Back

The woman lies face down and the man enters her from behind. He should keep his legs outstretched and inside hers. She should place a cushion or pillow under her so that her buttocks are raised.

Belly To Belly

The couple stands facing each other. He brings one leg forwards and she raises one leg. He should then be able to enter her quite easily. Both the partners should have their arms around each other’s hips.

After The Fashion Of The Ram

The woman is on her knees with her forearms on the ground. The man kneels behind her and enters her and places his hands on her shoulders.

Driving The Peg Home

The woman leans back against a wall and the man enters her from the front. She takes her weight on her back and raises her legs, which she should lock around the back of his thighs. She can give herself additional support by holding on to his shoulders. He can then ‘drive the peg home’.

Loves Fusion

While the woman is lying on her right side, the man should lie on his left with his left leg extended. The man’s right leg should be raised until it is up to her flank when he then places her upper leg on his side. The Perfumed Garden then says ‘after having introduced your member you move as you please, and she responds to your action as she pleases.’

Coitus Of The Sheep

The woman is on her hands and knees; the man, behind her, lifts her thighs until her vulva is on a level with his member, which he then inserts. In this position she ought to place her head between her arms.

Interchange In Coition

The man lies on his back. The woman, gliding in between his legs, places herself upon him with her toe nails against the ground. She lifts up the man’s thighs so he can enter her. She can then take her weight on her hands, which she places, either side of the man’s body. The Perfumed Garden says this is an exact opposite of our traditional ‘missionary position’ and that a variation is for the woman to kneel with her legs under her but between his legs.

The Race Of The Member

The man, on his back, supports himself with a cushion under his shoulders but with his buttocks on whatever is underneath him. He then draws up his thighs until his knees are on a level with his face.

The woman then sits on him, "impaling herself on his member" she must not lie down but keep seated as if on horseback, the saddle being represented by the knees and the stomach of the man’. All she has to do then is jog up and down by flexing her knees to bring them both to orgasm.

The Fitter In

The man sits with his legs apart and the woman sits between them. He enters her and they grip each other’s elbows or forearms. Her legs should be around his waist and all four feet should be on the ground. They can then rock gently back and forth.

The One Who Stops At Home

The woman lies down on her back with her shoulders and upper back supported by cushions. She arches her back and brings her feet back so that her knees are raised. She opens her legs and the man can half-kneel and enter her. She then raises and drops her buttock to provide excitement and friction, but the man has to follow her movements or his member will become dislodged – he has to ’stick like glue to her’.

The Coition Of The Blacksmith

The woman lies on her back with a cushion under her buttocks and her knees raised as far as possible towards her chest so that her vulva stands out as a target. She then guides her partner’s member in. He then: executes for some time coition in the usual manner then draws his tool out of the vulva, and glides it for a moment between the thighs of the woman, as the smith withdraws the glowing iron from the furnace in order to plunge it into cold water.

The Seducer

The woman lies on her back, the man sits between her legs. She can then draw her legs up around his shoulders and guide his member in. She can clasp her legs around his waist if that is more comfortable.

The Large Bee Position

The woman sits astride the man, with his lingam entered into her yoni. She closes her legs in front of her and grasps his lingam tightly. She can then lean back and take her own weight on her arms – even gripping his ankles with her hands if she wants to and it feels comfortable. She can then begin a series of twisting movements from the waist down – this is the large bee. The advice given in the Tantric text is that she shouldn’t be too aggressive or masculine in her movements as it will upset her partner’s ego. However, modern lovers shouldn’t have to worry too much about that and the woman can let go to all her desires at this stage. Most women find this position extremely comfortable and they can maintain it for quite a long time.

The woman may like to experiment by moving her legs forwards or backwards until the optimum position for comfort and friction is found. Basically the man has to lie back and enjoy his partner doing all the work. As a man you might like to thrust your hips upwards at the same time as your partner moves her waist from side to side. The man can caress his partner’s breasts and she can stimulate her clitoris at the same time. If the simultaneous orgasm is important to you both then this is probably the best position to achieve it. The woman can bring herself to clitoral orgasm at the same time as the man ejaculates and she should be able to control the speed and pace much more sensitively in this position. If the woman has mastered the yonic squeeze technique (PC muscle) then she may well be able to bring her partner to orgasm without moving any part of her body except the yoni.

Let’s begin by looking at the Kama Sutra. This ancient Hindu text suggests that there are sixty-four different lovemaking positions, but on close inspection it turns out that there are only twenty-three with each having many variations depending on how deep the lingam (penis) is thrust into the yoni (vulva) or the manner in which it is moved. The Kama Sutra also deals in some depth with oral sex, which we will look at later.

Positions With The Man Behind

Congress Of The Cow

The word congress is used in the Kama Sutra for "intercourse" or, more properly "meeting". In the Congress of the Cow the couple should have sex in the manner brought to mind by the title of this position. The woman stands upright and bends forward until her hands touch the ground. The man then enters her from behind and clasps her around the waist much as a bull would mount a cow. In this position he can also stimulate her clitoris and his pelvic bone will be able to stimulate the area around her buttocks and perineum.

The Congress Of The Elephant

This is not quite so obvious from its title, however the woman lies face down and the man enters her from behind with his legs outside hers. He should support his weight on his arms. The woman, by pressing her thighs tightly together, should be able to provide extra friction for the man if required.

Positions With The Couple Standing Up

The Congress Of The Vine (or The Supported Congress)

The couple has sex standing up with the man leaning back against a wall for support. The woman should entwine her legs around the back of the man’s thighs. It’s probably best if she tries this with only one leg at a time unless he is very strong or she is very athletic. If either of the couple is of very different heights the man should bend his knees and keep his legs apart so he can lower himself to the woman’s level.

The Congress Of The Monkey (or The Suspended Congress)

The man leans back against a wall for support and the woman clasps him around the neck. If he bends his knees she will be able to grip the back of his thighs with her heels and use her toes against the wall for extra thrust. The man should grip the woman around her upper thighs to support her. Both this position and the preceding one need some strength and practice but are good for spontaneous sex and indulging in erotic kissing.

Positions With The Woman On Top

The Pair Of Tongs

The man lies down and the woman sits astride him, facing him, with her knees bent back. There need be no thrusting if the woman has practiced her PC muscle exercises; she can just gently squeeze his lingam. The man, in this position, can caress the woman’s breasts and she can stimulate her own clitoris – or the man can.

The Spinning Top

Here the couple begins as the Pair of Tongs but the woman slowly, and carefully, swivels around until she is facing away from the man. This one is both difficult, and potentially painful for the man. Take great care. The woman can swivel back again into the Pair of Tongs.

The Swing

The man sits half upright and the woman sits in his lap facing away from him. She should support her weight by gripping his ankles and the man should support his own weight by propping himself up on his arms. In this position the woman can, as the name suggests, swing herself backwards and forwards, or even from side to side.

The Congress Of The Mare

The woman sits as in The Swing, in the man’s lap while he is sitting half upright. Instead of leaning forwards she leans back. The man should take his weight on his arms. This should leave the woman free to stimulate her clitoris and the man can kiss her neck and shoulders.

The Woman Sitting Astride The Man

Maybe a better suggestion than the Spinning Top is to get into a position where the woman sits astride the man, facing away, and inserts his lingam into her yoni.

If the woman grips her partner’s ankles she can then exert considerable pressure and friction on his lingam while still maintaining control. Some women find the Spinning Top quite tiring and some men find it painful because the woman’s weight on his upper thighs can be restrictive. However, it is a fun position to try and can be very stimulating. The Kama Sutra recommends it for couples who have been together for a long time as each, being unable to see the face of their partner, can fantasize that they are making love to a stranger – or someone else they desire.

The Kama Sutra says: Though a woman is reserved, and keeps her feelings hidden, when she mounts her man from above she can show all her love and desire, and from her actions a man should be able to tell what disposition she is in and in what way she likes to be enjoyed.

Positions With The Man On Top

The Widely Opened Congress

The couple starts in the classic ‘man on top’ position with the woman’s knees outside his thighs. She should then arch her back and he should support his weight on his knees and arms. The woman’s buttocks should not be in contact with whatever is underneath her. The woman, by opening her legs as wide as possible, should be able to enjoy very deep penetration and good stimulation of her clitoris by the man’s pelvic region.

The Yawning Congress

The woman lies down and raises and opens her legs as wide as possible. The man kneels between her legs and enters her. The couple should clasp hands to support each other’s weight. The woman’s inner thighs should grip around the man’s waist.

The Highest Yawning Congress

The couple should take up the Yawning Congress and then the woman should bring her knees forwards to rest on her breasts. The man can then straighten out his legs and take his weight on his arms. The woman can rest her feet on his shoulders. This position provides the deepest penetration.

The Congress Of The Consort Of Indra

Indra was the Hindu god of Thunder and this may have been his favorite position – or that of his consort or wife. The woman lies down on her back and brings her knees together tightly on her breasts. The man kneels and enters her. She can then rest her feet on his stomach while he grips the back of her thighs or, in this position, he can stimulate her clitoris extremely well. For added tension she can grip her shins and pull her knees even more tightly against her breasts.

The Clasping Position

The woman lies down and the man enters her by lying on top of her. She entwines her legs with his and their arms also entwine. This position doesn’t allow for much movement but it is a very intimate warm embrace.

The Side Clasping Position

The couple lies on their sides facing each other. The woman lifts one leg to allow the man to enter her. They can entwine legs and arms or use their hands to caress each other.

The Twinning Congress

The couple adopts the classic ‘man on top’ position. The woman should bring one leg around the back of her partner’s thighs and draw him closer to her. At the same time she should clasp him around the neck and draw his head down to hers.

The Pressing Congress

The same as the Twinning Congress but the woman uses both her legs to press even harder against the man’s thighs. Her feet should grip quite hard behind his knees.

The Rising Congress

The woman should lie down on her back and draw her knees up to her breasts. The man kneels and enters her. He should then grip her legs and bring them up so that her feet are on his shoulders. He will need to open his thighs quite wide to enable him to penetrate her deeply. This position is quite tiring for the man although it does afford the woman considerable pleasure due to its deep penetration.

The Pressed Congress

This position is very similar to the Congress of the Consort of Indra, but instead of the woman gripping her legs tightly to her she can relax her knees. The man can caress her feet and she can stroke his thighs.

The Half Pressed Congress

The woman can relax one leg completely by stretching it out behind her partner. This lets him have access to her clitoris, which he can then stimulate with his fingers.

The Nailed Half Pressed Congress

From the previous position the woman can take the foot that is on the man’s chest and lift her leg completely into the air. At the same time the man should extend one leg behind him.

The Congress Of The Crab

The woman lies on her back with her legs widely apart and her knees drawn up. The man kneels and enters her. He clasps her knees to his chest. She can then let her legs down and draw them up again. If she does this quickly and smoothly he will gain a lot of pleasure from the tightening and relaxing of her yoni.

The Lotus Congress

Not even to be attempted unless you are both very supple and energetic. The woman lies on her back with her knees drawn up so that she is in the full lotus position but lying down. The man enters her by crouching over her on all fours. You were warned you had to be supple and energetic!

The Bamboo Congress

The man enters the woman who is lying on her back. He extends one leg behind him and she brings one leg up so that her foot is resting on his shoulder – this should be the opposite leg to the one he has extended. By alternately raising and lowering a leg in the woman’s case, or bringing one back and forth in the man’s case, they can bring themselves to orgasm. This position is supposed to resemble bamboo being split. It’s not easy and only really included so you can try it for fun.

Movements Of The Lingam (Penis)

Once the twenty-three positions are learnt, or even during the learning process, the man can also learn how to move his penis to afford the woman maximum satisfaction. The Kama Sutra is very clear in its advice to men – your role is to satisfy the woman; unless you learn to be a patient, sympathetic and considerate lover you cannot attain the true Tantra.

Movements of the Lingam During Lovemaking

The Moving Forward

The Lingam is inserted into the Yoni in a straightforward manner and pushed fully home.

The Sporting Of The Sparrow

The lingam is moved in and out rapidly in tiny movements like a sparrow.

The Blows Of The Bull And Bear

The lingam is rubbed against the side of the vaginal walls.

The Giving Of A Blow

The lingam is used to strike the outside of the yoni – especially effective if struck against the clitoris.

The Pressing

The lingam is used to rub hard against the outside of the yoni – again it works well if the clitoris is stimulated by the lingam.

The Rubbing

The lingam is inserted and pushed hard against the ‘bottom’ of the yoni – the vaginal wall on the opposite side to the clitoris.

The Piercing

This is the same as the Rubbing except the lingam is rubbed hard against the ‘top’ of the yoni – the vaginal wall where the G-spot is situated.

The Churning

The lingam is used inside the yoni and is ‘churned’ about, rubbing against the vaginal walls.

You might like to experiment with your own variations of these -and invent names for them.

Oral Sex

The Kama Sutra gives advice to a man on how to give oral sex to a woman – it says the man should follow the same advice as for kissing. Perhaps you’d better start learning, if you’ve not been practising erotic kissing. There are many publications devoted to the art of oral sex, a very important aspect of a good sexual rapport, sadly very few men bother in any detail with this subject.

For the woman there is also helpful advice about oral sex. The Kama Sutra suggests that there is an eight-fold path to Auparishlaka or mouth-congress:

Nominal Congress

The lingam is caressed by the woman’s mouth.

Biting the Sides

The lingam is held by the woman and her teeth can gently nibble along the sides.

Outside Pressing

The head of the lingam is sucked gently by the woman’s lips.

Inside Pressing

The whole of the lingam is inserted into the woman’s mouth and she gives long deep sucks with her whole mouth.

The Kissing

The lingam is kissed all over by the woman.

Tongueing

The lingam is fiercely licked all over by the woman’s tongue.

Sucking the Mango Fruit

About half of the lingam is inserted into the woman’s mouth and she should suck hard in the same manner as the Inside Pressing.

Swallowing Up

The whole of the lingam is taken into the mouth and throat and sucked hard with a deep swallow motion.

The Congress Of The Crow

If the couple wants to engage in mutual oral sex they should adopt The Congress of the Crow. This equates with the classic ‘69′ position of Western sex practices. Here the couple can engage in mutual caressing of the genitals in comfort.

Tantric sex combines the principles of yoga and meditation to weave together sex and spirituality. It is rooted in ancient Hindu and Buddhist texts and practices dating back to at least the sixth century A.D.

A loose tradition to begin with, The Tantric teachings offer no clear record of their origins, even when it comes to the meaning of the term Tantra, which has been variously defined as "web," "weaving," "expansion," and "liberation." No matter what the definition, at the heart of Tantra, or to be more precise, Tantric sexuality, is honest communication and the creating of intimacy before sex.

Margo Anand, founder of the SkyDancing Institute, helps Westerners better understand the art of Tantra. "Instead of having sex … try making love. Sex is work when your heart isn’t in it. Forget about sex. Just play first. Dance, sing, read to each other, make up poems, be tender, open your hearts, communicate. Let sex be the crowning of this exchange … First develop intimacy skills, then make love to enjoy them."

Yes, it’s true. You can reach the heights of stupendous orgasm again and again and again! Extend your climax, deepen your intimacy, and awaken your creativity — all at the same time. Sound too good to be true? It isn’t. Read on to learn more about Tantra, the ancient Eastern art of lovemaking.

With some commitment and practice you can learn the secrets of Tantra. It can transform your sexual experience — your entire relationship — from mundane routine to incredible excitement. Your sex life wont ever be the same!

Sex has become a very mental occupation, according to researchers Allan and Donna Brauer in their book, "Better, Safer Sexual Intimacy and Extended Orgasmic Response."

Here are some examples:

• The average orgasm is only ten seconds long.
• The average frequency of intercourse is once or twice a week for most couples.
• That equals about 20 seconds of orgasm per week; one and a half minutes per month, or 18 whole ecstatic minutes each year.
• Just so you know, in 50 years, that would be about 15 hours.

We devote thousands and thousands of hours to fantasizing about sex, worrying about sex, daydreaming about sex, wishing for sex, planning for sex … for 15 hours of ecstasy in 50 years.

Tantric sex is not about adding more orgasms, it’s about being orgasmic, which is our very nature. You can learn how to prolong your orgasms from ten seconds to ten minutes or more when you expand your idea of orgasm beyond the genitals into a "whole body" experience.

With the mastery of advanced techniques, couples are able to reach orgasm without even touching each other! Get a load of that …

Ejaculatory control is essential to keeping the orgasmic energy going. Using breath control combined with various postures, the magical energy can be captured and manipulated to reach the highest heights. Men can learn to experience orgasm without ejaculating, and both men and women can experience transcendental orgasms that include their hearts, minds, and entire bodies.

The Art of Tantra

Start very simply. Set aside about 15 minutes several times a week to practice getting in tune with your body and with your partner’s body. Think of it as your private time to explore and discover. Okay, it sounds crazy — where in the world will you find the time? But if you want to make a commitment to Tantra, you’ll need to make your relationship a priority. And that’s a good thing!

Before you start, here are a few pointers:

• Make sure you’re at a basic level of fitness.
• Go slowly. Rest when your body is tired. Your stamina will increase with regular practice.
• Wait awhile after eating before you start the exercises.
• Practice in a warm room with indirect sunlight.
• Know your limits. Never force your body beyond its capacity.
• Create a welcoming environment — incense, soft music, candles, etc.
• Unplug the phone. Turn down the lights. Lock the door. Slip away.
• Rest a bit after you finish. Take some time to transition before heading back to your day to day life.

Appreciate Your Partner

Sit quietly, cross legged, facing each other. Breathe softly but deeply. Rest your hands on your knees, palms up.

Look into, but focus beyond, your partner’s eyes. Keep your eyes wide open throughout this practice. Eyes are the windows to the soul, and the key to achieving true intimacy.

Become conscious of your breathing, and that of your partner. Try to breathe comfortably at the same pace, moving the air slowly in through your nose and out through your mouth. Keep eye contact while you breathe together.

After you’ve practiced for a few weeks and feel comfortable appreciating your partner in this way, try staying in the position for 15 minutes steady. Simply keep eye contact with your partner, and do nothing else. Think of yourselves as two people who have been together for so long that there’s nothing left to say or do. Try not to fall asleep or daydream. Don’t give in to the urge to smile, be cute or funny. If you do laugh or giggle, start over. Hold the position for 15 minutes, then relax.

Harmonized Breathing

You and your partner lie on your left sides, facing in the same direction (some call it spooning). Whoever feels more stressed should take the inside position. Both of you close your eyes and relax. Begin by focusing on your own breathing. When you’re ready, move your attention to your partner’s breathing.

Now you can get your breathing in synch. Inhale together, hold the breath, then exhale together. Repeat for five to ten minutes.

Variation:

Sit cross legged, facing each other, and look into your partner’s eyes. Press your foreheads together. Synchronize your breathing.

Slowly inhale and fill your chest with air — as much air as you can take in. Contract your genital muscle when you feel as if your lungs are full.

Now, lift your chin and bring your mouth to your partner’s, piercing his or her lips with your breath. Release the air gently, yet suddenly.

Synchronize your breathing again. Now, let your partner take in the breath and release it into you.

Two Bodies As One

Lie flat on your back, feet to feet with your partner. Now, bend your knees, and interlock your legs as if you were forming a single body with a head on either end. Once in position, don’t move. Begin by focusing your attention on your own body, starting from your head and moving to your toes. Separate the sensation of your body from your partner’s.

Next, start noticing your partner’s body, imagining it as part of your own. Create the vision of yourself as having one large body with a head at each end, four arms, interlocking legs in the center. Hold this position for 15 minutes.

Variation:

Sit upright, facing each other, instead of lying down. Hold your hands facing up on your partner’s knees. Relax your back and neck, loosen your facial muscles. You can close your eyes or keep them open and press your foreheads together.

Advanced Variation:

Once you’ve mastered the exercises described here, you may be ready for "Riding the Wave of Bliss." You and your partner come together and lock in a mouth to mouth, genital to genital embrace. Create a continuous flow of energy following the oval shape formed by your torsos. Imagine that your physical body, personality, and gender have vanished, leaving only the flow of energy. Concentrate on the energy, enjoy the flow.

…and finally…

Well here we are, some of you will be excited about the things you have seen here, and would perhaps think about making the transition from where you are, to the whole new and exciting way of the tantra’s.

There are many tantra’s, the tantra of sex, or Tantric sexuality as seen in these pages, is only a part of the way of life, that Hindu’s and Buddhist’s have followed for thousands of years. The learning and practice of the topics discussed here will in no short measure, improve any persons sex life, you don’t have to be Buddhist or Hindu, just open and honest, remember to give first, and accept graciously and gratefully, that which is given to you…

Much has been said about the attitude of Westerners to their own sexuality, it would seem that the whole reason for sex is simply, for "self" to have an orgasm, and as you have seen in these pages, that is but a very small part of our existence, the fact is that any form of sexual activity, even masturbation, and the sex act itself can be a very beautiful, fulfilling and very spiritual experience for anyone who really want’s to make a wonderful difference in their relationship.

The Crown Chakra

Here the human being connects with the universe. The totality of a person, as combined from other Chakras offers it self to the divine forces of the universe. The individual experiences knowledge beyond words or intellect, interfacing with cosmic energies and pure consciousness.

The Third Eye Chakra

This Chakra enables the recognition of "Being". Connects to the part of creation which is beyond science & physical manifestation. Through this Chakra the "knowing" of spiritual matters is passed down and so influences all other parts of an individual.

The Throat Chakra

Here feelings and emotions are transformed into expressions such as laughter or crying. Deals with everything related to sound on both the physical and the metaphysical level. Communicates and mediates all emotions and feelings. Provides space from "Self" to enable "inner" reflection.

The Heart Chakra

The centre of the Chakra system. Here aesthetic impulses (art or music) are processed into feelings & emotions. The ability to love freely, without fear or self-consciousness is generated here. Negative feelings and emotions are neutralised. Healing by acceptance of suffering.

The Solar Plexus Chakra

Position in the middle of the body gives this Chakra it’s significance. Impulses such as desire, wishes blend with impulses coming from above. This is where the personality is formed. "Feeling" and "Being" are integrated here. This is the melting pot of spiritual and earthly aspects.

The Lower Chakra

Centre for sexual energy, creativity and pure emotions. Here the Male sexual drive combines with the female sexual responses. Feelings & emotions flow freely, Regulating the relationship between lovers and friends. Balances the free giving & receiving of feelings and emotions.

The Root or Base Chakra

Links the individual with the physical world. Defines the concept of "Being" and "Accepting Being". Serves as the foundation to evolve and build the personality. Embraces aspects such as energy, self-expression, ambition, consistency, desire for security and the survival of self and species..