Tantric Meditation Teacher Training
~Level I~
Module 2 | The Pathway to Knowing
This module will provide a more in-depth exploration of Tantra and Tantric meditation specifically. We will explore what Tantric meditation is, how it’s different from other styles of meditation, and lay out the facets of meditation that make it Tantric. Please complete all of the lectures, writing prompts, practices, sadhana assignment, and your Module 2 quiz before moving onto Module 3. If you have questions or would like to schedule a private mentor call, reach out to us at: admin@virabhavayoga.com
SECTION 1: What is Tantric Meditation?
Now that we’ve laid a foundation of meditation more generally, let’s talk about Tantric meditation, and how it diverges from other approaches.
Intro to Tantra
Before we dive into Tantric meditation, it’s helpful to have an understanding of Tantra and Tantric philosophy more generally. Watch this live-recorded lecture and follow along by answering the questions on page 15 of your Student Workbook.
Intro to Tantric Meditation
So, what is Tantric meditation, and how do we practice it? In this live-recorded video lecture, we will explore the purpose of Tantric meditation, and lay out the primary facets of practice. Follow along, and answer the questions on page 16 of your Student Workbook.
SECTION 2: The Facets of Tantric Meditation
Introduction to Prana
Tantric meditation is unique in that it works at the level of prana, or energy, as opposed to the mind. Watch this short video to get a basic understanding of prana, and follow along by answering the questions on page 17 of your Student Workbook.
Practice: Pure Breathing
Before doing this practice, use page 18 to make some observations about how you’re feeling. Then, find a comfortable seat and enjoy this subtle pranic practice. Step-by-step instructions and space for reflection can be found on pages 19-20 of your Student Workbook.
Sankalpa
Learn about Sankalpa in this short video, and reflect on page 21 in your Student Workbook.
Mantra
Mantra is one of the primary facets of any Tantric meditation. Read pages 22-27 in your Student Workbook to get an understanding of mantra itself, and a few of the mantras that are considered to be “unlocked”- in other words, available to anyone, without the initiation of a teacher. Use the adjacent buttons in this section to access audio recordings of the Gayatri and Maha Mrityunjaya Mantras (explanations on p 26 & 27).
SECTION 3: Sadhana as a Pillar of Tantric Meditation
Sadhana
In this short video, Kelly speaks to the importance of Sadhana in Tantric Meditation. Use the space on page 28 to take notes as you watch.
The Primary Practice: Prana Dharana
A component of many Tantric meditations, Prana Dharana is a simple practice of following, harnessing, and concentrating prana. Before doing the practice, use page 29 to make some observations about how you’re feeling. Then, find a comfortable seat and practice along with the recording. Step-by-step instructions and space for reflection can be found on pages 30-31 of your Student Workbook.
SECTION 4: Sadhana Assignment #2
Before moving on to Module 3, please complete a 10-day (or longer if you wish!) sadhana with the above Prana Dharana practice. As you progress through 10 consecutive days of practice, use the space on pages 32-33 of your Student Workbook (and/or keep a journal) to make notes about your experience- both how you feel in the meditation, and anything you notice about your experience throughout each of the 10 days.