Ancient tantric practices, often misunderstood and misrepresented in popular culture, encompass a rich tradition that extends beyond mere rituals, spiritual and sexual related pursuits.

Tantra is not a religion; if anything, it is more a philosophy focuses on tested practices – in other words Tantra is a way of life. Central to tantric teachings is Integration – learning more about one’s own psyche, body and spirit. Owning one’s light and darkness in order to integrate them, becoming a whole instead of a compartmentalized human being. In Tantra it is pivotal to recognize the interconnection between the body, mind, and spirit. By harmonizing these elements, one can achieve holistic health and well-being.

One of the fundamental aspects of tantric health practices is the understanding of energy centers in the body, known as chakras. These are believed to be focal points where physical and spiritual energies converge. Through practices such as yoga, meditation, and specific rituals involving breath control (pranayama), tantric practitioners aim to awaken and balance these chakras. Each chakra is associated with certain organs and aspects of health, and harmonizing them is believed to promote overall vitality and wellness.

This article is aimed to help those who may battle with PTSD or those over stressed who would like to learn simple techniques to help calm the nervous system. You may already be familiar with most of these. These simple yet ancient tantric techniques; when practiced regularly; will help ease the feeling of being over wired. It is important to remember these tools are exactly that and are not meant to replace your therapy or medications….

1. Deep Breathing (Pranayama):
   Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Sit comfortably with your spine erect. Close your right nostril with your right thumb and inhale deeply through your left nostril. Then close your left nostril with your ring finger, release the right nostril, and exhale completely through the right nostril. Repeat, alternating nostrils for several minutes. This technique balances the flow of energy and calms the mind.
   Bhramari (Humming Bee Breath): Close your ears with your thumbs, place your index fingers on your forehead, and rest the remaining fingers on your closed eyes. Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly while making a humming sound like a bee. This practice helps to soothe the nerves and reduce stress.
2. Yoga Asanas (Postures):
   Balasana (Child’s Pose): Kneel on the floor, touch your big toes together, sit on your heels, and bend forward, extending your arms in front or alongside your body. Rest your forehead on the floor. This pose gently stretches the spine and helps relax the body and mind.
   Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose): Sit close to a wall and lie on your back with your legs extended up against the wall. Keep your arms by your sides with palms facing up. Close your eyes and focus on your breath. This pose promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety, and improves circulation.
3. Meditation Techniques:
   Mindfulness Meditation: Find a quiet place to sit comfortably. Close your eyes and bring your attention to your breath. Observe each inhalation and exhalation without trying to control them. When your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to your breath. This practice enhances awareness and reduces stress.
   Mantra Meditation: Choose a calming mantra (a sacred word or phrase) such as “Om Shanti” (peace) or “So Hum” (I am that). Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and repeat the mantra silently or aloud with each breath. This helps to calm the mind and bring a sense of peace.
4. Relaxation Techniques:
   Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Lie down in a comfortable position. Start by tensing and then relaxing each muscle group in your body, from your toes to your head. This technique helps release physical tension and promotes relaxation.
5. Visualization and Guided Imagery:
   Nature Visualization: Close your eyes and imagine yourself in a peaceful natural setting such as a forest, beach, or mountainside. Visualize the sights, sounds, and sensations of being in that place. This technique helps to calm the mind and reduce stress.
6. Diet and Lifestyle:
   Eat Sattvic Foods: Incorporate fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds into your diet. Avoid fast food or overly spicy foods, which can agitate the nervous system.
7. Daily Routine (Dinacharya):
   Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support a healthy nervous system and overall well-being.

When practicing these ancient tantric techniques, it’s essential to approach them with patience, consistency, and mindfulness. Over time, integrating these practices into your daily routine can significantly calm the nervous system, reduce stress levels, and enhance your overall quality of life.

Sofia Falcone
I passionately believe one person can make a difference. I write from my own experiences and interests. It is my greatest hope that by writing about my own challenges and hopes, others may feel inspired to believe more in their inner power and to fully embrace themselves.

Reprinted on crystalwind.ca with written permission from Sofia Falcone. Do Not Copy!

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