Tantric sex is one of those hot trends that most men and women have heard about, and some may have even practiced; but for most, this Eastern discipline remains something of a mystery. A friend or coworker may have talked about going to a tantric sex workshop or retreat, leaving others wondering - why does someone need a class to learn how to have sex? The answer is that tantric sex is not one’s every day "wham-bam-thank-ya-ma’am" type of sexual experience. While it may not be for every couple, those that practice it can experience a whole new level of sensuality. Learn more about tantric sex, where to start as a beginner, and how to keep the penis healthy for an intense sexual experience.

What is tantric sex?

Tantra is something that cannot be easily defined, and it may be different in some ways for each individual who uses its teachings and philosophies. Tantra is not a sexual experience fit for a one night stand, or even a casual fling; rather, Tantra is for the couple who wants to take their relationship to a more intimate - some would even say spiritual - level. Unlike other sexual encounters, the goal of Tantra is not to achieve orgasm. Instead, the aim is for the participants to experience a wider range of sexuality and to create a new level of energy. Tantra helps a couple expand their sexual and emotional boundaries, allowing them to become empowered and fulfilled by the experience. The duration of tantric sex tends to be much longer than the average lovemaking session, and the couple may even have 2 or 3 orgasms through the course of the event.

Tantric Sex for Beginners

Couples just starting to experiment with Tantra can try the following suggestions to get things going in the right direction:

1) Set the mood

The Tantric model is about the experience of exploring all five senses. To that end, the romantic mood can be set by de-cluttering the environment and making it as free from distraction as possible. To awaken the five senses, try playing some stirring music, lighting scented candles, and making the bed very comfortable. Add lots of pillows to the bed, as well as luxurious sheets, so that it is inviting and relaxing.

2) Eyes wide open

If both partners keep their eyes open during the encounter, it ramps up the intimacy of the experience and creates a connection that is often missing from other sexual experiences. Keeping a soft light on, such as a lamp or several candles, gives the bedroom a romantic glow and allows for eye contact, which is very important to establishing intimacy. Furthermore, eye contact allows for easier communication of wants and needs, which is another tenet of Tantra.

3) Focus on breathing

Concentrating and focusing on breathing during sex is another way to sync up with one’s partner emotionally and physically. To practice harmonizing the breath, one partner should straddle the other partner’s lap, facing each other while breathing in an opposite rhythm. One partner inhales while the other exhales and vice versa; in this way the two partners are breathing each other’s breath and sharing their energy with one another.

4)Take it slow

If anything can be said about tantric sex, it is that it is a marathon, not a sprint. The couple should engage in a great deal of foreplay to help build up the sexual experience. Lingering over each other’s bodies helps build energy, intimacy, and anticipation, all of which helps lead to more powerful orgasms.

5) Keeping the penis healthy

Tantric experiences have been known to last hours - and in some cases, days - but if a man is going to withstand such a long experience, he needs to make sure his penis is in tip-top condition. In addition to resting up before a sexual experience, a man needs to nourish his penile skin, ensuring that it is well-moisturized and responsive. Applying a quality penis vitamin cream (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) that is enriched with targeted nutrients can help soothe dry skin, improve circulation and enhance sensitivity.