Title: The Complete Idiot's Guide to Tantric Sex, Second Edition Author: Dr. Judy Kuriansky Publisher: Alpha Books Publish Date: 2004 Pages: 397 Genres:: How-To Guide, Non-Fiction, Self-Help Reviewer: J. Henry

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Renowned television and radio personality, Dr. Judy Kuriansky returns as author of the second edition of tantric sex books for The Complete Idiot’s Guides. It’s been three years since the first edition and now Dr. Kuriansky returns to scribe an update to the multitude of information she revealed previously.

There are various ways to ‘guide’ newcomers through tantric sex; some guides focus on the psychological, others on the physical, most on both, and many always center around the spiritual aspects of Tantra. Essentially, Tantra is more a spiritual experience than anything else, delving into appreciation of the gods and goddesses, the female’s yoni and the male’s lingam. To truly perform and achieve Tantra, couples have to be patient, open-minded, and honest (with one another). Once you have achieved this, then you’re ready to fully commit to inducing your spiritual being.

Dr. Kuriansky dispenses information in six information-packed parts and starts by informing the reader what tantric sex is and how it can help relationships where sexual intrigue is fleeting. Often when people hear the term ‘tantric sex’ they assume this may mean some outlandish sexual practice when in fact “it is about using sexual energy to create more love, and having sacred sex as a means to sacred love.” Thus, tantric sex works from the inside out, not the other way around and to be in a committed relationship will only help intensify the feelings that are to come.

Dr. Kuriansky continues the first section by focusing on the basics: breathing, communication, learning about the origins of tantric sex and the god or goddess within you. Next, she moves on to the aptly named chapter, ‘Preparing Your Body Temple for Bliss’. In this chapter, Dr. Kuriansky guides the reader into feeling comfortable pleasuring the body by asking that you become better acquainted with it. Being able to describe your body parts ‘inside and out’ then go on a ‘genital exploration’ aid in learning what other ways you can find stimulation outside of what you’re used to.

Part two is about getting started, making dates that will be the setting for pleasure dates and aid in reaching bliss. Dr. Kuriansky focuses on the sacredness of Tantra and how finding tantric triggers can only increase the love and romance in your relationship. Throughout the text, there are boxes of information catered to the Tantra novice such as direct, personal advice from Dr. Judy entitled, “Dr. Judy’s TantrAdvice” and also “Tantra Tutorial’s” which describe techniques, “Blocks to Bliss” which hint at barriers that may be preventing reaching your blissful state, and “Tantra Tales” that are brief success stories from couples who testify to Tantra’s ability to increase emotional and physical pleasure.

Part three gets into the physical focusing on touching and pleasuring the female and the male then segues into how to achieve the “Big TTO” (tantric transformation orgasm). In chapter 14, Dr. Kuriansky explains the various types of orgasms couples can achieve (mega-orgasm, clearing orgasm, tantric orgasm, etc.) that allow those involved to go above and beyond what you’ve experienced with the basic “Big O”. In order to have these variations on orgasms, she instructs you on the exercises that allow you to connect energy from the earth and sky (and each other) to achieve bliss.

Part four delves into toys and other aids that can cater to longer and more fulfilling sex; part five’s initial chapter explores the single world of Tantra and how to find the perfect match for you. What Dr. Kuriansky focuses on is loving and knowing yourself before seeking a partner for sexual and emotional satisfaction. Treat yourself as a god or goddess should you be single. The remaining chapters in this part go on to explore dating and tantric ceremonies which celebrate the gods within and allowing loved ones to participate in such a celebration and also the rocky parts of relationships. “Can tantric love survive an affair?”

The final section brings up a word one may not have heard of: “cybertantra,” can such an act be done via a seemingly ‘anonymous’ online relationship? Yes, it can says Dr. Kuriansky, but of course during this emotionally trying time it may be hard to overcome feelings of distrust.

The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Tantric Sex Second Edition does serve as a true beginner’s guide even suggesting reader’s go to other books for helping in the dating scene, such as Dr. Judy’s self-plugging of her other contribution to the Idiot’s Guide Series, The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Dating. What this book does do is cover all aspects of tantric sex and provide numerous answers to questions the reader may have or hadn’t even thought about. As a sexual reference guide, Dr. Judy definitely illustrates her knowledge of tantric sex as someone who hasn’t only studied it, but has enjoys it and can truly enlighten those who are skeptical and cautious. Dr. Judy takes the reader by the hand and guides you through this world as you become more in tune with you and your partner’s sexual prowess.