When you hear the word “tantric,” you probably immediately think about new tricks for the bedroom. However, there’s a lot more buried within the philosophy of Tantric yoga.

The main goal of Tantric yoga is to increase your awareness in every state of consciousness so you can look beyond the immediate and often limited outlook. Sure, you can practice this during sex, but it applies equally as well to the daily tasks of walking, working, sleeping and so on. Through the practice, you’ll begin to understand what holds back your thoughts or feelings, whether it’s obstacles of ignorance, selfishness or willpower.

Tantric philosophy holds that desire is the force that drives the universe and the actions we take. While the practice doesn’t ask individuals to hold back their desires, it does offer ways to move beyond them and understand that with desire often come negative feelings, including loneliness, fear, anger or anxiety. If you can place your desires second, you’ll be able to reach new levels of fulfillment gaining courage, love and satisfaction like never before.

When practicing Tantric yoga you can expect to learn more about the philosophy behind the movements and how everything is sacred. Often relaxation is a big focus as well, as you learn to let go of the limitations that may be holding you back from experiencing the divine.