Use your desires with caution!

 What is the difference between Yoga and Tantra?

Tantra suggests accepting yourself as you are - not trying to control yourself, just accepting. Stay aware, and you will rise higher. Yoga promotes control. Both approaches are valid. Tantra and Yoga may have different expressions, but their origins are the same. All the principles of Yoga are derived from Tantra.

How so?

Both exist within us, the good and the bad, the creative and the destructive. Usually, religion teaches us to accept the good parts of our personality and reject the bad. However, with our limited understanding, we often end up messing up everything. We try to change our behavior and way of thinking. This forced transformation imposed on our personality suppresses the natural expression that resonates with all levels of our consciousness.

Tantra talks about the union of Shiva and Shakti. Shakti is often defined as Kundalini, and Shiva as consciousness. Tantra does not refer to any physical relationship. It suggests that to experience internal union, you must first experience external union. To experience inner bliss, you must first experience external joy. The difference is that external joy is temporary, while the experience of inner bliss is continuous.

Tantra involves initiation ceremonies that awaken Shakti, the power within. The practice of asanas is an awakening for the body. Pranayama is an awakening for the breath. Tantra and Yoga differ only in the sense that Yoga is transcendent. Its scope goes beyond the world, body, mind, personality, emotions, actions, and environment, while Tantra is more associated with meditation.

Why do we have desires?

We have desires because differences are necessary for the development of consciousness. It serves as a medium for the awakening of conscious parts. Without differences, there would be no development. It would lead to a state of stagnant consciousness.

How should we deal with desires?

We should accept them. If I have the desire to slap you, I should consider the indirect consequences, positive or negative. If I only indulge in my emotions, it could lead to a big conflict between us. You have to learn to keep yourself separate. Allow emotions to blossom, observe them, and learn to control them. You will know the right time to act and channel your energy. Then its expression will be positive and creative, rather than dangerous. Wait for the right time, and there will be no differences.

Do men and women have different spiritual qualities?

Tantra believes that the energy related to women is of higher purity and quality than masculine energy. In Tantra, female principles hold the position of a guru, and male principles are considered disciples.

Why is that?

Because women possess an ability that prevents physical obstacles from obstructing their intellect. Women naturally possess the ability of intuitive knowledge because their energy is active on a physical level. Male energy is inert and has a contracting perspective. Women can attain what male energy cannot. A person should move forward with sensitivity, and a person should move forward with high alertness. This implies subtle awareness. The main aspect of a yogi's life is subtle awareness.

Be self-aware: To recognize your desires, align yourself with your abilities, interests, and talents. When you understand your desires, you can determine them with mindfulness.

Exercise control: Stay in control to validate your desires. Often, our desires can be temporary and unwarranted. By maintaining control, you can utilize your genuine desires and avoid negative consequences.

Contemplate on thoughts: When contemplating fulfilling a desire, pay attention to its relevance. Additionally, consider the outcomes, impact, and utility associated with it. This will assist you in making informed decisions and experiencing a complete understanding.