Discover another approach to sexual pleasure thanks to tantric massage

Associated with erotic massage, tantric massage is much more than that. A true discovery of the body and sensual pleasure, it's a meditative massage with Indian origins and diverse practices. While it's possible to reach orgasm during a tantric massage, this isn't the primary goal: the goal is above all to connect your body and mind to achieve a new state of consciousness.

As an e-concept store dedicated to women's intimacy, we specialize in sexual pleasure, and the topics of tantric massage and tantric sex seemed interesting to share with you. In this article, we introduce you to this practice and offer steps for practicing it at home as a couple.

What to remember Tantric massage is also called tantra massage or Kashmiri massage. Tantric massage is not an erotic massage. The practice of tantric massage focuses on the sensory and spiritual experience, with slow, gentle movements and the synchronicity of the breathing of the masseur and the person being massaged. Tantric massage has many benefits, the first being the discovery of bodily pleasures and the connection between mind and body—much like what one can experience in mindfulness meditation. It is possible to practice tantric massage with a professional practitioner or at home, as a couple. As a couple (as with a practitioner), the most important thing is the notion of consent and the synchronicity of breathing for an extraordinary sensory experience.

What is a tantric massage?

Tantric massage , also called tantra massage or Kashmiri massage , is a well-being massage, meditative and focused on knowledge of the body, much more than on sexuality. It is of Hindu origin.

Definition of tantric massage

Tantric massage is a massage practice based on Hindu tantric philosophy—more on that later. It focuses on sensory and spiritual experience . It aims to awaken, harmonize, and circulate vital energy, sometimes called sexual energy.

Tantric massage involves a slow, conscious and intentional touch from the masseur, where the chakras (energy points in Hindu tradition) may occupy a certain place. It is often accompanied by breathing techniques , meditation , and sometimes mantras (these repeated phrases, especially in the practice of yoga or mindfulness meditation) or soothing music . The goal is to promote a deep bodily awareness and to create a connection between the body, the mind and the soul . The ultimate goal of tantric massage is to go beyond – transcend physical pleasure to reach an overall state of well-being and ecstasy. Orgasm can be one of the manifestations of the awakening of energies during tantric massage but it is not its objective.

Because tantric massage is pleasure-oriented and can involve massage of the intimate and genital areas, it is associated with erotic massage; however, it is distinct from it.

Origin and history of tantric massage

Tantric massage owes its name to tantrism , of which it is one of the practices.

Tantrism is a school of thought, a philosophy, and a belief that sees the connection between body and mind as an expression of spirituality. In other words, pleasure, and particularly sexual pleasure, can be a form of spirituality. This movement has its origins in ancient India, with traces dating back to around 1500 BC. It developed as a set of spiritual practices and beliefs that spread within the Hindu and Buddhist traditions. While tantra reached its peak in India between the 6th and 13th centuries, it developed in the West in the 20th century, where it now occupies an important place, particularly in the areas of personal development and body awareness.

The Indian origins of tantric massage are evident when observing the practices it encompasses. Yoga (tantra yoga) and Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine) influence tantric massage on different levels.

✋ Contrary to what some people think, the Kama Sutra is not a tantric text. Written between the 6th and 7th centuries, it is a manual that conforms to the traditional conception of the time in India, for which sexuality was a matter of physiology and religious life, not morality.

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What is the difference with other types of massage?

There are several differences between tantric massage and other types of massage . There are four of them.

Difference #1: Goals and Intentions

We said it at the very beginning of this article, in the definition of tantric massage : the latter focuses on sensations, connection to spirituality and sensual exploration.

It is the only massage that has these goals. Massages generally have relaxation goals (such as Swedish massage, Californian massage, and hot stone massage), therapy (such as deep tissue massage or shiatsu), and physical recovery (such as sports massage). Unlike tantric massage, in which orgasm is a manifestation of sexual energy like any other, orgasm is central to erotic massage.

Difference #2: Practices Used

Tantric massage is based on an instinctive, soft, slow and fluid touch , almost caressing. Breathing and synchronization between the breaths of the giver and the receiver are essential to this massage.

In this, it differs from other massages where the touch is more technical, with movements such as effleurages, kneading, accelerations, repetitions of movements.

Difference #3: Relationship with the masseur

In any massage, the relationship between the masseur and the person being massaged must be based on trust. For a massage to go well and for relaxation to be found, the person being massaged must have complete trust in their masseur, and listening is essential. In this respect, tantric massage is no different from other massages.

However, in tantric massage, the connection goes beyond trust, as the bond is more intimate and emotional than professional. This is why a good tantric massage can be offered by the partner.

Difference #4: Cultural Aspect

Tantric massage differs from many other massages by its Indian origins, which are predominant and particularly visible in the different practices it uses: tantra yoga, ayurveda, mantra, etc.

While many massages also have Indian origins, there are many massages that have other origins (Japanese, Balinese, Chinese).

The benefits of tantric massage

Here are the different benefits of tantric massage that we recommend you try, if only to see.

Physical benefits

The first benefits of tantric massage are first and foremost physical: tantric massage does the body good!

• Muscle Relaxation: The slow, mindful movements of tantric massage help relax tense muscles and release built-up tension in the body. This can relieve muscle pain, reduce spasms, and improve flexibility.
• Improved Blood Circulation: Massage techniques stimulate blood circulation, promoting better tissue oxygenation and more efficient elimination of toxins. Improved circulation contributes to healthier skin, faster healing of injuries, and reduced fatigue.
• Nervous system balance: Tantric massage often incorporates breathing techniques and gentle touch that soothe the parasympathetic nervous system. This reduces stress, promotes a state of deep calm, and helps alleviate symptoms of anxiety and insomnia.
• Parasympathetic System Stimulation: By stimulating areas of the body related to lymphatic drainage, tantric massage helps eliminate cellular waste and prevent fluid buildup. This strengthens the immune system, reduces swelling, and promotes detoxification.
• Deepening Breathing: Tantric massage, combined with breathing exercises, helps open the chest and release blockages in the diaphragm. Deeper, more complete breathing improves oxygen intake, lowers blood pressure, and increases energy.
• Hormonal Balance: By reducing stress and promoting deep relaxation, tantric massage can help balance hormonal levels , including decreasing cortisol (the stress hormone) and increasing oxytocin (the feel-good hormone). This can improve mood, promote better digestion, and support reproductive health.
• Chronic Pain Relief: By working deeply with the body's energies and releasing tension, tantric massage can help reduce chronic pain, especially pain related to stress, energy imbalances, and menstrual leg pain . People suffering from pain related to conditions like fibromyalgia or migraines may experience relief.

Emotional benefits

Tantric massage can also provide emotional benefits.

• Releasing Emotional Blockages: Tantric massage encourages deep relaxation and connection with oneself, allowing repressed emotions to emerge and be released. This helps relieve emotional tension, overcome stress, and heal past trauma.
• Heightened Body Awareness: Tantric massage encourages full attention to physical sensations, which helps develop greater body awareness. This can improve posture, coordination, and reduce bodily tension due to poor body awareness.
• Increased self-esteem and self-acceptance: Tantric massage, by focusing on self-love and body acceptance, allows you to reconnect with your own body and appreciate its intrinsic value. This strengthens self-esteem, promotes a positive body image, and develops a healthier relationship with your body.
• Reduced anxiety and emotional stress: By combining conscious touch with breathing and meditation techniques, tantric massage helps calm the mind and dispel anxious thoughts. This leads to reduced anxiety, better stress management, and greater emotional serenity.

Benefits for your relationship (as a couple)

As we will see, it is particularly pleasant to practice tantric massage between partners. It is just as interesting and positive to practice it as a giver as it is as a receiver.

• Improved Relationships and Intimacy: By cultivating self-awareness and a deeper understanding of one's own emotions, tantric massage can improve emotional communication and intimacy in relationships. This allows for deeper, more authentic connections with others, strengthening romantic and interpersonal relationships.
• Increased trust: Tantric massage, like any massage or sexuality, relies on total trust between the giver and the receiver, whether to enjoy the caresses, to let go or to give oneself completely. Learning to give oneself and to give with the only limit being the consent of both participants is a wonderful way to learn trust.
• Better understanding of one's own body and the other's body: During a tantric massage, the giver caresses all parts of the other's body (unless otherwise stated). The receiver receives and feels the caresses. Both participants in the massage are encouraged to synchronize their breathing and listen to the sensations of the person being massaged. Thus, the person being massaged and the masseur discover the erogenous zones of the person being massaged together—allowing both partners to return to them, during the massage or afterward, during other practices.

Spiritual benefits?

Various spiritual benefits are associated with tantric massage in Hindu and Buddhist cultures. We've listed them here if you're interested in these religions.

• Awakening Spiritual Awareness: Tantric massage, by working on the subtle energies of the body and opening the chakras, helps awaken spiritual awareness and deepen the connection with one's inner self. This promotes a greater awareness of one's spiritual path, a deeper connection with the universe, and a higher understanding of one's place in the world.
• Chakra Balancing and Energy Harmonization: Tantric massage aims to balance the energy centers (chakras) and harmonize the life force energy (prana or kundalini) throughout the body. Better energy balance leads to a feeling of overall well-being, increased mental clarity, and greater spiritual vitality.
• Experience of Transcendence and Oneness: Tantric massage can induce a deep meditative state, where the individual feels in harmony with themselves and the universe, transcending dualities (body/mind, inner/outer). This experience of oneness can bring a profound sense of inner peace, spiritual joy, and connection with the divine.
• Developing Mindfulness: By focusing on each sensation, breath, and emotion, tantric massage encourages mindfulness, helping you live fully in the present moment. This strengthens your ability to be present in your daily life, live with more intention, and cultivate a meditative state of mind.
• Enhanced Connection with Sexual Energy: Tantric massage explores and honors sexual energy as a vital and sacred force, integrated into the spiritual path. This transforms sexual energy into spiritual energy, awakens the kundalini, and promotes a more conscious and sacred approach to sexuality.

The different techniques used

Tantric massage is primarily intuitive. It is based on listening and synchronization between the two participants, the massage giver and receiver. However, several techniques are necessary to achieve this experience of unity between the two.

Slow and gentle movements

Tantric massage is based on slow movements, most often accompanied by oil to make the massage more sensual and essential oils to increase relaxation.

Caresses more than manipulations

Slow, sensual caresses are the basis of tantric massage. They are gentle and fluid. Similar to the effleurage technique in many massages, it may be necessary to repeat them in rhythmic and repetitive movements to accelerate relaxation. In a professional tantric massage practice, energy points (chakras) may be more specifically targeted, with the application of more or less significant pressure on or around these points, but this is not a requirement.

Interest in massage oils

Generally, it's recommended to use massage oil for tantric massage. In addition to the glistening effect, which can be very sexy for both partners, it adds a smoothness, softness, and an intoxicating aroma to the massage.

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• CBD massage oil from the Equilibre CBD brand: The relaxing and aphrodisiac properties of CBD are particularly interesting in the context of a tantric massage. The Equilibre CBD brand also has environmentally friendly and health-friendly values ​​that we love! Note that the brand also offers an intimate CBD oil , specifically dedicated to use on the genital areas. ⚠️ CBD is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

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• Massage and body care oil from the My Lubie brand: This oil combines the restorative effects of grapeseed oil and moringa oil with the softness of jojoba oil for a soothing and encompassing effect. It is totally appropriate for a tantric massage. We like that it is 100% made from natural ingredients and 88% from organic farming. Since it does not contain essential oils, it is ok for pregnant and breastfeeding women. ⚠️ It has not been tested for internal use: opt instead for a lubricating oil for this use.

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Interest in essential oils

In addition to massage oil, you can also apply essential oils—in this case, add a few drops to your neutral massage oil. Essential oils like lavender, sandalwood, or jasmine are often used for their relaxing and aphrodisiac properties. Be careful, however, as not all essential oils are suitable for direct application to the skin: check beforehand!

💡 Our tip: if you want to use oils for your massages, remember to always test them on a small area of ​​your skin before applying them to your entire body... this will avoid unpleasant surprises in case of allergy or reactivity of your skin!

Use of Breath and Sound in Tantric Massage

In addition to slow, gentle movements, other practices are associated with tantric massage. This is the case with breathing, which must be synchronized between participants, as well as sounds and vibrations, which are essential for immersing oneself in the state of mindfulness essential to massage.

Conscious breathing

Breathing, and in particular synchronized breathing between the two participants in the massage (the giver and the receiver), is preponderant in this practice. Indeed, not only will encouraging deep breathing in the receiver allow for complete relaxation , but it will also allow the giver to understand the points and areas that bring the most sensations. More jerky breathing, panting or, on the contrary, slower breathing thus provides indications to the masseur. By listening and in osmosis with the person being massaged, he can give even more pleasure, or on the contrary, move away to better touch this area again later. Finally, joint breathing gives a particularly gentle feeling of unity when practicing tantric massage.

✋ You don't need to master breathing techniques to practice tantric massage. Just listening to your partner is enough!

Universe of sounds and vibrations

The sound environment in which the massage takes place is also important.

As part of a professional tantric massage practice, it will be customary to use repetitive vocal sounds such as mantras and/or the singing sound of Tibetan bowls to create vibrations that resonate throughout the body and promote relaxation and energetic opening.

As a couple, you can rely on a playlist of soothing music that both partners enjoy, or on ambient sounds, such as falling rain, a thunderstorm, or a crackling fire in the fireplace. These ambient sounds are available on YouTube channels and Spotify and Deezer playlists. We only recommend that you remember to turn off the ads (for example, with paid subscriptions or by downloading them in advance) to avoid being taken by surprise!

The Importance of Energy and Chakras

The practice of tantric massage being linked to Indian medicine and to the energy points that are the chakras, the manipulation of energy flows and chakras, through singular manipulations and pressures, is a particularity of this massage.

However, if you practice this massage primarily with the aim of connecting with your partner, you can do without this part without losing the interest and benefits of this massage.

Where to get a tantric massage?

Tantric massage can be experienced with a qualified practitioner, either solo or with a partner, or directly as a couple with your partner. Let's take a look at the pros and cons of both practices, as well as what you should expect from this type of practice.

Disclaimer: Are there any contraindications to tantric massage?

Yes. As with any massage, there are contraindications and questions surrounding tantric massage, whether you're having it with a professional or with your partner.

• Presence of an open wound : it is recommended not to massage an open wound, as there is a risk of superinfection. As a couple, you can of course massage the rest of the body without touching the area where the wound is located;
• Presence of a localized tumor, lymphedema, or painful metastases: Cancer is not a no-no when it comes to massage (although you may have already heard this rumor). Indeed, massage does not accelerate the spread of cancer cells, as a well-established urban legend would have it. However, you should avoid causing pain and therefore massaging the areas affected by a localized and painful tumor. If you are in this situation, speak to your general practitioner or oncologist for their advice;
• Pregnancy: Pregnancy is in no way a contraindication to tantric massage BUT 1) you will need to avoid essential oils and CBD oils and 2) you will need to be even more attentive as a masseur.

At a qualified practitioner

You can benefit from a tantric massage with a qualified practitioner alone or as a couple (there may then be two practitioners). The advantage of going through a professional is that you will discover your body differently, through the hands and technique of a professional. You will also have the opportunity to discover the more spiritual and traditional aspects of tantric massage (chakras, use of Tibetan bowls, etc.). Practicing it as a couple can reassure you enormously during a first experience and help you to then get started as a couple, at home.

How does it work?

The practitioner will receive you in his spa or will come to your home. In both cases, he will give you a questionnaire beforehand about your desires, your concerns and your health issues. He will invite you to undress and settle down on the massage table while he will be away, in another room. He will not return until you are settled, a cloth covering your body. He will make sure that you are comfortable, that you are not cold, and will set the mood for the massage (music, incense, essential oils, etc.). Then he will perform the massage, always ensuring your consent – ​​this is the basis of this type of very intimate massage. The goal of tantric massage is not orgasm, but if you must achieve it, it will be accepted as a manifestation of energy and not judged by your masseur. Once the massage is completed, the practitioner will leave the room and let you get dressed / shower.

How to find a trusted tantric massage practitioner?

Finding a trusted practitioner for tantric massage can be difficult due to the number of professionals and the level of trust required for this type of practice. There are many online directories and practitioner associations where you can find contacts. Here are our tips:

• For a first practice, prefer to go to a spa or office – do not hesitate to go there to make your appointment directly in order to meet the person beforehand;
• Rely on word of mouth if some of your loved ones have had the opportunity to try it and/or on reviews of the selected professionals;
• Ask for information about the practice if applicable;
• Trust your instincts – it's not everything, we know, but there's no point in going to a place you don't like at first: even if the practitioner is good, you won't be able to relax;
• Go as a couple if it makes you feel comfortable and your partner is okay with it.

At home, with your partner

The advantage of experiencing tantric massage at home is that you'll enjoy complete privacy and trust in the person giving you the massage. The disadvantages are that your partner may be clumsy and sometimes disrupt the sensuality of the massage, and you may not benefit from the cultural/spiritual aspect of the massage in this setting. It's up to you to decide what interests you about this type of massage.

In the last part of this article, we give you tips for practicing tantric massage as a couple at home in the best conditions.

Try tantric massage as a couple, at home!

Discovering tantric massage for two at home can have many benefits for your relationship. It's a wonderful experience, and we're offering 10 steps to help you.

The benefits of tantric massage for couples

Tantric massage is another way to caress each other and enjoy an intimate and sexual experience , different from the sex you practice. It is a moment that will boost your libido, bring you new sensations, make you discover new erogenous zones, lead you to discover your bodies differently. It is all the more interesting to try if your couple is running out of steam sexually, lacks renewal or is going through a particular period that disrupts sexuality, such as pregnancy, birth, illness… Tantric massage will bring you a new source of sexual pleasure that can be part of your foreplay or be an experience in its own right – it's up to your couple to decide!

Our 10 steps to try tantric massage for two

#1 Talk about it

If you're interested in trying tantric massage as a couple, start by talking to your partner about it. You can have them read this article to learn more about this little-known practice, which is often confused with erotic massage.

#2 Create a sound ambiance

The right sound is a prerequisite for a tantric massage session. Choose a sound environment (relaxing music or soothing sounds) that will relax you both.

#3 Create a visual atmosphere

Dimming the lighting, using a diffuser, a night light, or even candles, can add even more sensuality to the moment. Candles can have a scent to add a complementary olfactory ambiance, or not—we'll talk about that later.

#4 Create an olfactory ambiance

The olfactory ambiance is also very interesting for immersing yourself in an environment of softness and sensuality. This step is optional if you are using a scented massage oil: you may not like too many scents.

#5 Install your partner

If you're the one giving the massage, have your partner lie on your bed. You can lay them on a towel or a specially designed sheet (be careful, the oil stains!). You can leave them completely naked or leave their underwear on—massaging the genitals is part of tantric massage, but you can also gradually remove their clothes for a different experience. It will also depend on how comfortable they are with being naked.

#6 Place your hands on your partner

Start by making contact by placing your hands on your partner. This contact is usually done by applying oil, often at shoulder level. Warm it between your fingers and make sure your hands aren't too cold for a more pleasant sensory experience.

#7 Synchronize your breathing

Ask your partner to breathe gently. You can guide their breathing at first, directing them to inhale and exhale as you direct them. This will make it easier to match your breathing to theirs—because that's what you need to do: the more you can breathe with them, the more you'll be in tune with them, and the more you'll experience the experience together and feel their emotions with them.

#8 Describe your actions and obtain consent

This is essential advice, and we can't stress it enough. Your partner's body belongs to them, and even in the excitement of tantric massage, it's essential to get their consent before touching or making any movements. You can speak quietly or whisper if ASMR is something that excites them, or use your own voice—but always ask for their consent. You don't want to hurt their feelings or make them uncomfortable by pushing their boundaries.

#9 Run your hands over your partner's body

Now, run your fingertips, your palms, your mouth, and objects (feather, etc.) over your partner's body. Their entire body. Stop where they like, avoid tickling them by emphasizing the contact, feel their shivers: in short, experience it with them.

#10 Reaching orgasm?

Enjoyment is not the ultimate goal of tantric massage, but it can be one of its components. It is important to remember this first to avoid rushing things: the goal here is not to masturbate your partner (even if you can ultimately do it if you want to). The goal is to feel sensations, to experience emotions, to make yourself feel good. If orgasm is part of it or if tantric massage becomes one of your foreplay, well... it's your practice that counts ;). And for that, you can even make a happy ending with a sex toy for couples !