Debunking 5 Myths About Tantra Massage

There are so many myths about Tantra Massages. Let's debunk them! Photo: Pixabay

Tantra massage gets a lot of side-eye — mostly from people who confuse it with some sketchy “full-body release” ad on Craigslist. But behind the incense, slow strokes, and questionable marketing lies something a lot deeper (and, honestly, weirder in a good way). It’s time to separate the sacred from the sleazy and call bullshit on the biggest myths.

Myth 1: Tantra Massage = Happy Ending

Let’s just get this out of the way: yes, Tantra massage can involve genitals. But no, it’s not just a posh wank session with incense. A Tantra massage is about awakening energy through the entire body — and that includes areas most massages politely avoid. That doesn’t mean it’s goal-oriented. In fact, one of the main principles of Tantra is non-goal orientation. You might not even orgasm. And if you do, it’s not the point.

Think of it like this: a regular massage is like driving straight to the destination. A Tantra massage is taking the long scenic route with snacks, stops, and maybe a breakdown that leads to a revelation about your childhood. It’s sensual, not sleazy. Watch our micro documentary where Amanda tries Tantra Massage in Berlin.

Myth 2: Only Horny Men Book Them

Wrong again. While yes, some men stumble into Tantra sessions hoping for an adult-rated spa day, many leave stunned, sweaty, and slightly humbled. But guess what? Women, queer folks, couples — people of all genders and identities — seek out Tantra. Some want to reconnect with their bodies after trauma, some want to expand pleasure without porn, and others are just curious as hell.

Also: Tantra is not about giving or taking. It's about receiving without shame. If you're used to performing in bed like it’s a Cirque du Soleil audition, learning to just feel can be life-altering.

Myth 3: It’s Just Sex Wrapped in Spiritual B.S.

Sure, there are places that slap the word “Tantra” onto a rub-and-tug menu to dodge legality. But authentic Tantra massage is rooted in ancient traditions from India and Tibet, where energy flow, breathwork, and deep connection were part of spiritual practice — not something you Venmoed your Tinder date for.

Modern practitioners adapt those teachings into bodywork that can help people feel more embodied, connected, and emotionally present. That might sound fluffy, but when was the last time you felt truly present in your body? Scrolling Instagram with one hand and wolfing down noodles with the other doesn’t count.

Myth 4: You Have to Be Naked the Whole Time (and So Does the Therapist)

Look, nudity can be part of it. But this isn’t some creepy casting couch scenario. Boundaries are discussed beforehand. Consent is paramount. If a therapist doesn’t have a clear structure for communication and aftercare, that’s your red flag to leave — not to surrender.

The best sessions I’ve had? I kept my underwear on, cried halfway through, and walked out feeling like I’d exorcised a breakup I never properly grieved.

Myth 5: You’ll Instantly Unlock Cosmic Orgasm Powers

I hate to disappoint, but your first Tantra massage probably won’t transport you to the astral plane. You might not cry, moan, or float through your childhood kitchen. Sometimes it’s awkward. Sometimes you feel nothing. Sometimes you discover that your left thigh holds ten years of bottled rage.

Tantra is a practice, not a miracle. The magic is in learning to slow the fuck down, breathe, and pay attention to the sensations you usually bulldoze over.