Tantra Yoga is distinguished from other forms of yoga by its profoundly spiritual and energetic approach, where every aspect of the practice aims to awaken and harmonize the subtle energies present within each individual. It is not simply a sequence of physical postures, but an integrative practice that unites body, mind and soul through a variety of techniques such as asanas, pranayamas, mantras, rituals and meditation. Tantra Yoga is often described as a path of spiritual transformation, where the practitioner is encouraged to embrace all dimensions of existence - from the material to the spiritual, from the profane to the sacred.

Unlike other forms of yoga more focused on physical control (such as Ashtanga or Vinyasa), Tantra Yoga emphasizes the circulation of energy (prana) throughout the body, working in depth on the chakras (energy centers) and nadis (energy channels). The main aim is toawaken the Kundalini, a latent spiritual energy often depicted as a coiled snake at the base of the spine. Once awakened, this energy circulates through the chakras, releasing blockages and leading tospiritual awakening.

Tantra Yoga also relies on the duality andunion of opposites - masculine and feminine, light and shadow, matter and spirit - to achieve inner balance. The energies Shiva (masculine) and Shakti (feminine) are central to the practice, where the aim is to fuse these complementary energies to achieve spiritual unity. Unlike ascetic approaches that advocate renunciation of the material world, Tantra encourages the full embrace of physical existence, transforming every experience into an opportunity for spiritual growth.

The practice of Tantra Yoga focuses on several key techniques:

1. Asanas (postures): Although present in the practice, postures are not performed for purely physical reasons, but rather for their energetic impact. Asanas help to stimulate and open the chakras, while facilitating the rise of Kundalini energy.
2. Pranayama (breath control): Breathing techniques play an essential role in the circulation of subtle energy. Practitioners use techniques such as Kapalabhati (fire breathing) or Nadi Shodhana (alternate breathing) to purify energy channels and awaken Kundalini.
3. Mantras: Mantra chanting is a central practice in Tantra Yoga, enabling us to vibrate in resonance with universal energies. Specific mantras, such as "Om" or "Om Shakti", are chanted to activate inner energy and raise consciousness.
4. Mudras and Bandhas (energetic gestures and locks): These sacred gestures and body contractions are used to direct the flow of energy in the body and conserve vital energy. Mudras (hand gestures) and bandhas (locks) are often practiced in conjunction with pranayamas to maximize energetic benefits.
5. Rituals and symbols: Tantra Yoga also incorporates symbolic rituals, such as Puja (spiritual offerings), to purify the spirit and strengthen the connection with the divine. These sacred rituals offer a more devotional and spiritual dimension to the practice, transforming every action into a sacred act.

Another special feature of Tantra Yoga is its ability to integrate sexuality in a spiritual and conscious way. Contrary to popular belief, Tantra Yoga is not focused solely on sexuality, but recognizes sexuality as a powerful energetic force which, when practiced with awareness and respect, can be transformed into a sacred and energetically purifying experience. This makes Tantra a profoundly integrative practice, which values every aspect of life as a gateway to divine consciousness.

In short, Tantra Yoga is a holistic practice that not only works on the physical plane, but also seeks to awaken spiritual awareness through a series of profound and varied techniques. It is a path toinner awakening, where acceptance of material and spiritual life leads to a state ofdeep union with the divine, andharmony with oneself and the universe.

This type of enriched practice shows how Tantra Yoga goes beyond the traditional framework of physical yoga to include spiritual and energetic elements that promote personal transformation and awakening.