This blog is about:
Harnessing energies
Tantric Cosmology
Consciousness & Energy, Masculine & Feminine, Union of Shiva & Shakti
Happiness, fulfilment & balance
Strengthens willpower
Essential for spiritual growth
Polarity exists on many levels of our being and on many levels of planetary life. As we study the concept of polarity, we can begin to observe it playing under the surface of everything. The two polar elements, plus and minus, masculine and feminine, are in a constant dance, back and forth, striving for balance. As Tantra teachers Maria Porsfelt and Morgan Arundel explain in this article, with perseverant and focused practice we can join that dance, and by polarising and harnessing energies we can feel surges of happiness and willpower strengthening at our core.
By Maria Porsfelt and Morgan Arundel
Understanding Polarity in Tantra
Morgan: Polarity, as described in tantric cosmology, is fundamental to understanding how creation unfolds. It is the interaction between two core aspects: consciousness and energy. These two forces, akin to the plus and minus in electricity or the yin and yang in philosophy, create the dynamic interplay that brings existence into being. This interaction permeates all levels of manifestation—from the universal to the individual.
Maria: In Tantra, we symbolize this interplay through the union of Shiva and Shakti. They are depicted atop Mount Kailash in an ecstatic embrace, from which the entire creation emerges. This mythological image encapsulates the idea that the universe is infused with the ecstasy of their union. This perfect joy represents not only the origin of life but also our ultimate path back to oneness. By consciously engaging with this interplay, we learn to fuse in ecstatic love, which serves as both our origin and our destination.
Polarity Within the Individual
Morgan: Tantra offers a profound model that illustrates the correspondence between the individual (microcosm) and the universe (macrocosm). The principles and mechanisms observed in the cosmos are reflected within us. If creation stems from the interaction of two polar aspects, so too do we contain these forces within ourselves. Every individual embodies consciousness and energy, or the masculine and feminine aspects. This dynamic interplay becomes a game of life, teaching us how to use these polarities wisely.
The masculine aspect, associated with consciousness, is unchanging, permanent, and provides clarity and lucidity. The feminine aspect, linked to energy, encompasses life itself: emotions, experiences, perceptions, and thoughts. Together, they create the vibrant dance of existence.
Maria: This idea also reminds us that life itself is infused with the ecstasy of this interaction. It is not only about understanding polarity as a concept but recognizing that it is deeply embedded in our being. By realizing this, we align ourselves with the natural rhythms of life, making our journey more harmonious and fulfilling.
Embracing Polarity in Everyday Life
Maria: Tantra is often called the path of energy, as it uniquely values the feminine aspect—Shakti—and intense life experiences. The first step to embracing polarity is to fully embrace life with all its intensity. Often, we resist life, attempting to negotiate which parts we want and which we’d rather avoid. This creates a poor relationship with Shakti, or life’s energy.
However, Shakti without Shiva—energy without awareness—leads to chaos. To harmonize these forces, we must bring consciousness into our intense experiences. When we approach life’s fullness with presence and awareness, we achieve the union of Shiva and Shakti. The result is balance, happiness, and fulfilment. This is a practical and immediate way to begin engaging with polarity.
Morgan: Cultivating polarity also strengthens willpower and provides the energy needed for spiritual evolution. Polarity can be understood as the difference between two opposing forces, much like the positive and negative terminals of a battery. The greater the difference, the more power is available. In our lives, when we cultivate polarity within ourselves, our relationships, and our interactions with the world, we generate energy that can fuel our spiritual growth.
Conversely, ignoring or violating this principle leads to stagnation. Life becomes flat, chaotic, or lifeless. A wise approach to polarity not only prevents this but also empowers us to transform our lives and contribute positively to the world.