Why Urban Tantra Is Changing the Way We Think About Sacred Sex (And Why You Should Care)

A Deep Dive into the Revolutionary Guide That's Making Tantra Accessible for Everyone

Imagine a world where every person—regardless of gender, body type, orientation, or relationship style—has access to the sacred, transformative power of tantra. This is the vision that Barbara Carrellas brings to life in Urban Tantra: Sacred Sex for the Twenty-First Century. The book has become a touchstone for those seeking a more inclusive, embodied, and joyful approach to sexuality and spirituality. Carrellas, a renowned sex educator, weaves together ancient tantric wisdom with modern sensibilities, making tantra not only accessible but deeply relevant to our daily lives. Urban Tantra stands out for its radical inclusivity. Unlike many tantra guides that focus on heterosexual couples or esoteric rituals, this book welcomes LGBTQ individuals, kinky practitioners, singles, and people of all backgrounds. Carrellas shares stories from her workshops—moments when queer couples, solo explorers, and polyamorous groups found healing and connection through conscious breathwork, energy play, and sacred touch. These stories are not just inspiring; they are proof that tantra can be a tool for collective liberation.

At the heart of Urban Tantra are practical tools that anyone can use. Breathwork is a cornerstone—Carrellas teaches readers how to use conscious breathing to move energy, calm the mind, and even experience full-body orgasms. Chakra meditation, another key practice, is demystified and made accessible, with guided visualizations and affirmations tailored for real-world challenges. The book also introduces the concept of sex magic: using erotic energy to set intentions and manifest desires, both for personal growth and collective healing. What makes Urban Tantra truly unique is its focus on self-guided healing. Carrellas offers compassionate rituals for survivors of sexual trauma, empowering readers to reclaim their bodies and pleasure at their own pace. Testimonials from readers highlight how these practices have transformed shame into empowerment, loneliness into connection, and routine sex into a sacred act. The book's sex-positive, kink-friendly approach has made it a favorite in queer and alternative communities, where finding affirming resources can be a challenge.

Urban Tantra is also a call to activism. Carrellas argues that living joyfully and authentically is itself a form of protest in a world that profits from shame and disconnection. By embracing pleasure, presence, and compassion, readers not only heal themselves but also contribute to a more loving, inclusive society. The book’s impact is evident in the growing number of tantra workshops, festivals, and communities that center inclusivity, consent, and creative ritual. In summary, Urban Tantra is more than a book—it's a movement. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or a curious beginner, Carrellas' work invites you to explore the edges of your pleasure, heal old wounds, and discover a deeper, more connected way of living. 3 4