Tantra for One

This post was written by Community Partner, Pleasure Coach & Sex Educator Andrea Bertoli.

Many paths can lead us to deeper self-discovery, including meditation, yoga, breathwork, and plant medicine. In my experience, the most profound journey to self-actualization has been through conscious sexuality and pleasure. Through years of following the Tantric path, I’ve gained clarity about my identity, desires, and relationship with my body.

What is Tantric Practice?

Pleasure, play, and conscious sexuality serve as powerful tools for personal transformation. These practices can be explored both with partners and individually, opening doorways to profound personal growth through the connection of heart, mind, body, and spirit.

The Journey of Personal Growth

Self-exploration and sexuality offer endless opportunities for growth. This isn’t because we’re flawed, but because our potential for development is limitless. Like a flower with countless petals, we can continuously unfold and evolve when we remain open to new experiences and self-discovery.

My Path

Despite practicing yoga for over 20 years and exploring various spiritual practices, my true awakening came through discovering Tantric principles. After receiving a book on Tantric practices from a friend, I immersed myself in learning through books, workshops, and practical experience.

The results extended far beyond physical pleasure. This journey has facilitated emotional healing, trauma release, and genuine self-love. As a Holistic Pleasure Coach and Sex Educator, pleasure now forms the foundation of my work, though my personal practice remains central to my continued growth.

Understanding Tantra

It’s important to note the distinction between traditional and modern Tantric practices. What I discuss here falls under NeoTantra, a Western adaptation of classical Tantric teachings. While classical Tantra offers centuries-old wisdom and spiritual traditions, NeoTantra focuses on incorporating selected teachings into contemporary consciousness. Though my introduction came through NeoTantra, I continue studying traditional practices to deepen my understanding.

The Value of Solo Practice

Why Practice Alone?

While many Tantric resources focus on partner practices, solo exploration offers unique benefits:

  • Creates a safe space for self-discovery
  • Builds confidence and body awareness
  • Allows experimentation without pressure
  • Deepens self-love and acceptance

Real-World Examples

Here are two examples of solo Tantric practice:

  1. A meditative experience by the ocean, using breath work to connect with nature and achieve full-body bliss through energy work alone.
  2. A intentional self-pleasure session with careful attention to breath, timing, and sensation, resulting in a new level of experience.

Key Elements of Solo Tantric Practice

Conscious Breathing

Start with simple breathing exercises during any pleasure practice. Whether during meditation, bathing, or self-pleasure, focus on deep, intentional breaths. With practice, you can direct pleasurable sensations throughout your body using breath alone.

Mindful Slowness

Whatever activity you choose, slow down significantly. Lighter touches and delayed gratification, combined with conscious breathing, create deeper experiences of pleasure.

Self-Love Affirmations

Incorporate loving self-talk into your practice. Appreciate your body, acknowledge your beauty, and celebrate your capacity for pleasure. Consider using mirrors or self-recording to witness your own divine nature.

Creating Sacred Space

Set aside dedicated time for practice without distractions. Turn off notifications, create a comfortable environment, and allow yourself to fully immerse in the experience. Remember that you are worthy of this time and attention.

Want to learn more? Find additional my writings on Conscious City Guide or get my shame-free education on Patreon, or reach out to connect. 

More About the Author: I help people build stronger relationships, create intimate communication, explore their desires, and practice sensual connection in a grounded, holistic way. My approach to coaching and teaching uses tools from Tantra, mindfulness, and yoga to help you find new ways of relating to yourself and others, and will create space for you to rethink sex and pleasure.

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