A tantric sex coach has "had enough" of people associating the practice with Sting - and says stories of his 'seven-hour' sessions are really putting people off. Mangala Holland, 50, has taught tantric sex - a practice which combines yoga, mindfulness and spirituality into sex to people all over the world - including in India, Australia and Thailand.
She wants people to know the practice is "endlessly beneficial for physical, emotional and sexual health" as well as a great way to develop body confidence and self-love. But she claims musician Sting talking about his seven-hour long sessions "put people off" because it sounds "too complex and intimidating".
Mangala said: "The first thing people think about when they think of tantric sex is, of course, Sting. "Him being able to go for hours and hours has become a bit of a running joke within the community.
"There are a number of other myths, too, which can put people off by making it sound too complex or intimidating. You may have heard that men are encouraged not to ejaculate - or that Tantra is a cult with lots of people wearing cloaks while backpacking in Thailand - but that's not the case."
Though it may sound "complicated" - perhaps even "cultish" - tantric sex is accessible to any beginner over the age of 18. Tantra is about lovemaking with intention," Mangala said.
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"Anyone can have it, no matter your experience levels. My most inexperienced clients are often people between the ages of 40 to 70, who have been in long-term relationships for 30-odd years and are looking to mix things up.
"It usually includes lots of eye gazing, longer foreplay, meditating together and mindful breathing. It’s about slowing right down and reaching a deeper level of intimacy.
"It’s much simpler than it sounds."
Mangala believes the physical and emotional benefits of Tantra are endless.
"Endorphins are released and it can make you feel like you’re floating on air. When you start to see sex through the lens of everything being magical, and your heart being open, you can start to see life in that way too."
Mangala says people can even go it alone. Tantric sex doesn't just have to involve two or more people and can incorporate mindful breathing and slowing down.
"Solo tantric sex can be a great gateway into practicing as a couple," she said.
"I encourage women especially to get to know themselves and their pleasure, slowly.
"You’re really opening yourself up in an emotional, vulnerable new way - and I'd definitely opt for this over a one-night stand, or something casual."
TOP TIPS FOR TANTRIC SEX
1. Take your time
2. Maintain eye contact for deeper connection
3. Focus on your breathing - try to co-ordinate if you can
4. Spend more time on foreplay
5. Try to take your mind off your appearance
