The Contemplative Tradition has been a significant part of many spiritual practices for centuries, including Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, Taoism, and Zen. It involves meditation, prayer, reflection, self-awareness, and an exploration of one's inner world through silence and solitude.
Can this tradition also encompass body-positive and erotic forms of devotion? Some scholars argue that it can, while others disagree.
One argument is that contemplation can be expanded to include physical sensations and emotions, such as feelings of pleasure and desire. This approach recognizes that these experiences are part of the human experience and can be used to deepen our connection with ourselves and the divine.
Some yogic traditions incorporate sexual energy into their practice through breathwork, postures, and visualizations. In addition, tantric Buddhism encourages practitioners to explore and embrace all aspects of existence, including pleasure and pain. By embracing the full range of human experience, we can cultivate greater awareness and compassion towards ourselves and others.
Another argument is that contemplative practices should remain focused on the mind and avoid anything related to the body or sexuality. According to this view, indulging in erotic desires distracts from the true goal of spiritual growth and detachment.
Proponents of body-positive and erotic contemplation counter that these experiences provide valuable insights into our innermost selves and help us understand our relationship with the divine. They argue that by fully engaging with our bodies and senses, we can discover deeper truths about who we are and what we want.
Some scholars suggest that contemplative practices can lead to a sense of nonduality, where there is no separation between self and other, subject and object, body and soul. Embracing both body and mind through contemplative practices can bring us closer to this state of unity. Incorporating physical sensations and pleasures into meditation allows for a more holistic understanding of the world around us and ourselves.
While there are different views on whether contemplative traditions should include body-positive and erotic forms of devotion, it's clear that they offer unique insights into our inner lives. Whether you agree with one approach over another depends on your personal beliefs and values.
The key is to find a practice that resonates with you and helps you connect with yourself and the divine.
Can the contemplative tradition be expanded to include body-positive and erotic forms of devotion?
The contemplative tradition is an umbrella term used for a range of religious practices that involve meditation and self-reflection, such as yoga and mindfulness exercises. While these practices focus on mental wellbeing and spiritual growth, they can also have positive effects on physical health and sexuality.