As the year nears its end, I find myself reflecting on the central truth of Tantra: the experience of oneness. In Tantra, oneness is not just a lofty philosophical concept—it is an embodied reality, the understanding that all things, all beings, and all experiences are deeply interconnected. This recognition of unity is the ultimate goal of Tantra, a practice that teaches us to transcend separation and embrace the sacred in all aspects of life.
In this weeks post, I’ll share how the principle of oneness has shaped my Tantric journey, along with practices to help you cultivate a deeper sense of connection with yourself, others, and the universe.
The Principle of Oneness in Tantra
Tantra teaches that there is no separation between the divine and the mundane, the self and the other, or the physical and the spiritual. All of existence is a manifestation of the same universal consciousness, often described as Shiva (pure awareness) and Shakti (creative energy). When we embrace this truth, we begin to see the divine in everything—the beauty in a sunrise, the wisdom in a challenge, and even the sacredness within ourselves.
For me, the journey toward oneness began with small moments of presence. I remember sitting on a beach in Cancun after attending a mystery school, watching the waves of the Caribbean Ocean roll in. At that moment, I wasn’t just observing the ocean—I felt as though I was part of it. The rhythm of the waves matched my breath, and I experienced a profound sense of belonging. It was a glimpse of what Tantra calls oneness—a feeling that has deepened with practice.
Practices for Cultivating Oneness
Oneness is not something we achieve through force or striving; it’s something we remember by letting go of the illusions of separation. Here are some practices that can help you reconnect with the sense of unity that already exists within and around you:
1. Heart-Centered Meditation
The heart is a gateway to experiencing oneness. By focusing on the heart center, we can dissolve the barriers between ourselves and others, opening to a state of unconditional love and connection.
How to Practice:
- Sit in a comfortable position and close your eyes.
- Place your hands over your heart and take a few deep breaths.
- Visualize a warm, golden light glowing in your heart, expanding outward with each breath.
- Silently repeat: “I am connected to all that is.”
- Stay with this visualization for 5-10 minutes, allowing the sensation of connection to grow.
Personal Insight: This practice has been transformative for me, especially during times when I’ve felt isolated or disconnected. It’s a reminder that the heart is always a bridge to the world around us.
2. Eye Gazing for Connection
Eye gazing is a powerful way to experience oneness with another person. By looking into someone’s eyes without judgment or expectation, you can transcend surface differences and connect at a soul level.
How to Practice:
- Find a partner and sit facing each other.
- Set a timer for 2-5 minutes.
- Look into each other’s eyes, softening your gaze and focusing on simply being present.
- Notice what arises—thoughts, emotions, or even discomfort—and let it flow without attachment.
Personal Insight: I’ve had some of the most profound moments of connection during eye-gazing exercises. It’s as though the veil of separateness dissolves, leaving only a sense of shared humanity and love.
3. Nature Connection
Nature has a way of reminding us of our place in the web of life. Spending time in nature can help us reconnect with the rhythms and cycles that unite all living beings.
How to Practice:
- Take a walk in a natural setting, such as a forest, park, or beach.
- Leave your phone behind and focus on your senses—the sound of the wind, the feel of the earth beneath your feet, the scent of the air.
- Reflect on how everything in nature is interconnected, from the smallest blade of grass to the vast sky above.
Personal Insight: Whenever I feel disconnected, time in nature brings me back to center. It’s a powerful reminder that I am not separate from the world—I am a part of it.
4. Union with Breath
Breath is a universal force that connects all beings. By focusing on your breath, you can cultivate a sense of oneness with yourself and the world around you.
How to Practice:
- Sit comfortably and close your eyes.
- Begin to breathe deeply and evenly, focusing on the sensation of air entering and leaving your body.
- With each inhale, imagine drawing in the energy of the universe. With each exhale, imagine offering your energy back to the universe.
- Repeat for 5-10 minutes, feeling the flow of energy between you and the world.
Personal Insight: Breath has become one of my most trusted tools for reconnecting with oneness. It’s a constant reminder that the same life force flows through me, you, and everything in existence.
Living in Oneness
Embracing oneness doesn’t mean we lose our individuality—it means we recognize that our individuality is part of something greater. When we live from this perspective, we approach life with more compassion, presence, and love. We see the divine in others and ourselves, and we experience the interconnectedness of all things.
Today’s Thought Exercise: Experiencing Oneness
Take a moment today to reflect on a time when you felt deeply connected to something greater than yourself. What was the experience like? How did it change your perspective? Choose one of the practices above and try it this week, journaling about what you notice.
If you feel called, share your reflections in the comments—I’d love to hear how the principle of oneness shows up in your life and practice.
