PDF Summary:Sex Matters, by Osho

In Sex Matters, Osho explores the deep connection between sexuality and spirituality. He challenges traditional religious views that regard these aspects as conflicting by proposing that sexuality is a profound pathway to spiritual growth and enlightenment.

The author argues that, contrary to suppressing sexual expression, acknowledging and embracing our innate sexuality allows for complete self-awareness and personal liberation. Osho offers pragmatic techniques to strengthen presence during intimate moments, channeling sexual energy to transcendent states of consciousness.

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Develop awareness and mindfulness during sexual activity to move beyond physical/egoic levels

Osho recommends approaching sexual experiences with deliberate mindfulness and presence, instead of simply as a physical act driven by instinctual desire. By fully engaging with the present moment and observing sensations, thoughts, and emotions impartially, one can transform the sexual experience into a type of meditation. This awareness cultivates a detachment from the ego's quest for control and gratification, paving the way for an in-depth examination of the facets of being that go beyond the physical world.

This involves letting go of all prior assumptions and expectations about intimacy, allowing the encounter to unfold naturally. Be mindful of your breathing, feel the physical responses within you, and watch how your energy mingles with that of your partner's. By impartially observing the experience and not obsessing over outcomes, one can transcend the limitations imposed by oneself, thus nurturing a deeper connection and achieving spiritual awakening.

Concentrating on the area between the eyebrows, while being mindful of one's breathing and remaining at ease, a person can prolong and amplify the feeling of bliss.

Osho offers particular methods to enrich sexual encounters and unlock their transformative power. He underscores the importance of mindful breathing, suggesting that taking slow, deep breaths can enhance calmness and prolong the experience of sensory awareness. By taking slow, deep breaths, you calm the nervous system, which then promotes a smoother flow of vitality throughout your physique.

Osho suggests focusing your awareness on the forehead's midpoint, a region associated with the notion of an additional ocular perception. This point signifies a blend of spiritual perception and intuitive understanding. Focusing your attention on this aspect while engaging in intimacy may deepen your bond with your partner and allow you to discover the sublime aspects of the encounter.

Finally, Osho stresses the importance of relaxation. By surrendering to the present moment and relinquishing control, you can transform intimate experiences into deeply meditative and intensely potent instances, in harmony with your body's natural rhythm.

Use sexual energy as a gateway to meditation and higher states of consciousness

Osho posits that the force of sexuality stands out as a potent catalyst for spiritual enlightenment among the various energies available to humans. He encourages viewing lovemaking as a conduit to mindfulness and heightened consciousness, instead of merely an end goal. Sexual encounters may evoke profound sensations of unity and joy that transcend temporal limitations, encouraging a more profound and enduring pursuit of these states via meditative practices.

Our innate sexual vitality, when channeled with intention into contemplative practices, can transform into a powerful force for personal transformation. Intimacy with a heightened sense of presence can enhance our perceptiveness and alertness, which can then be channeled into meditative practices that lead to profound states of consciousness, steering us toward the ultimate liberation and enlightenment.

Delving deeply into acts of intimacy with heightened awareness can lead to a transcendent state where one's sense of self dissolves, evoking an everlasting sensation akin to spiritual awakening.

Osho explains that through consistent and conscious closeness, a person may undergo a profound shift in consciousness that is comparable to reaching samadhi. By extending the pinnacle of delight beyond a momentary zenith, the consciousness seamlessly shifts into a state of serenity, which leads to a deep harmonization with the boundless and everlasting aspects of being. He suggests that couples extend their intimate moments, focusing on deep breaths and a tranquil state while paying attention to the chakra associated with intuition and insight, which can intentionally induce heightened awareness.

Osho proposes that by dedicating many hours to profound, deliberate closeness, a couple may undergo a substantial transformation, breaking free from the perpetual cycle of desire and achieving a lasting state of contentment without craving. Osho proposes that undergoing this experience would lead to a sense of contentment and tranquility, thereby reducing the craving for sexual gratification.

Embrace sexuality with a playful attitude while maintaining deep respect.

Osho advocates for a shift in how we view sexuality, emphasizing the importance of approaching it with respect, reverence, and a touch of playfulness. He encourages us to view sexual expression as a sacred reflection of life's vitality, a joyous celebration that pays tribute to our connection with the fundamental nature of existence.

Consider sexual intimacy to be a hallowed act, akin to a rite performed in a sanctified space, rather than just a physical interaction.

Osho suggests envisioning lovemaking as a sacred temple ritual rather than simply a physical act. This involves preparing both the person and their environment with conscious intent and dedication, interacting with a partner in a way that is imbued with profound esteem and love, and viewing the encounter as a sacred communion, a tribute to the core of life.

Embracing a fresh perspective can transform the essence of the interaction, fostering a deeper connection and setting the stage for a spiritual awakening. By nurturing profound reverence for the sanctity of intimacy, we can dispel the guilt and unease instilled by traditional morality and embrace with open arms the joy and magnificence that are intrinsic to this vital aspect of our existence.

Other Perspectives

• While Osho's methods may offer a spiritual dimension to sexual encounters, not everyone may find this approach resonates with their personal beliefs or experiences.
• The emphasis on mindfulness and presence during sex may not be practical or desirable for all individuals, as some may prefer spontaneity and less structured encounters.
• Techniques to prolong and amplify climax might not align with the sexual health or preferences of all individuals, and for some, may lead to performance pressure or anxiety.
• Focusing on the chakra between the eyebrows or any specific spiritual practice during intimacy may not be in harmony with the cultural or religious beliefs of all individuals.
• The idea of using sexual energy as a gateway to meditation and higher consciousness may not be supported by all spiritual traditions or scientific perspectives.
• The concept that sexual encounters can evoke profound sensations of unity and joy might be overly idealistic and not reflective of the complex nature of human sexuality and relationships.
• The notion of consistent and conscious closeness leading to a profound shift in consciousness may not be a universal experience and could be challenged by psychological or physiological factors.
• Viewing sexual expression as a sacred reflection of life's vitality may conflict with secular or non-spiritual viewpoints that see sexuality as a natural biological function without inherent sacredness.
• Envisioning lovemaking as a sacred temple ritual may not be compatible with all personal values or sexual orientations, and could be seen as imposing a spiritual framework onto a personal and private act.
• The encouragement to approach sexuality with respect, reverence, and playfulness, while positive, may not address the full spectrum of sexual expression and the diverse ways individuals relate to their sexuality.

The cultural, historical, and social context around sexuality

Osho explores the historical and cultural context of sexual matters, highlighting how societal beliefs and viewpoints have shaped our understanding and experiences of this fundamental aspect of human existence. He contends that conventional establishments, especially religious ones, have fostered a skewed and detrimental perspective on sexuality, which has resulted in pervasive distress and malaise.

He underscores the importance of liberating ourselves from antiquated social conditioning and advancing toward an equilibrium that recognizes the strength and possibility for both individual and spiritual enrichment inherent in our sexual nature.

Throughout history, sexual expression has often been subjected to repression and vilification by various religious and societal structures.

Osho argues that throughout history, sexuality has been treated as a taboo subject, repressed and demonized by religious and social institutions. These institutions have ingrained stringent ethical standards, fostering fear and embarrassment about sexual matters, causing numerous people to grapple with remorse, unease, and a warped perception of their physical selves and yearnings.

Numerous psychological and societal dysfunctions stem from issues associated with sexuality.

Osho emphasizes that such suppressive perspectives have led to pervasive psychological and societal malaise concerning sexual matters. Individuals have become disconnected from their natural instincts, their bodily existence, and a profound understanding of their inherent sexuality. A variety of issues have emerged, including sexual repression and frustration, as well as perversions, neuroses, and unhealthy relationships.

Cultures have either completely suppressed sexuality or permitted it to reach excessive and obsessive levels.

Osho notes that societal attitudes toward sexuality frequently oscillate between complete suppression and excessive indulgence. He contends that such methods are detrimental and ultimately counterproductive. Denying our innate desires can result in psychological tension and discontent, thereby obstructing the true joy and freedom associated with the expression of our sexual nature.

Finding a balanced, natural, and integrated approach to discussing sexual matters is crucial.

Osho advocates for a balanced and integrated approach to sexuality, steering a course that avoids both extreme self-denial and unbridled indulgence. He suggests embracing our inherent sexual nature, which constitutes a fundamental aspect of our identity and also carries the potential to nurture spiritual growth and transformation. This approach involves surpassing sentiments of regret and culpability, participating in sexual acts with mindfulness and focus, and channeling that energy to enhance one's awareness.

Societal attitudes and education around sex have severely limited people's understanding and experience of it

Osho confronts the dominant societal perspectives on sexual education, arguing that they have greatly limited people's understanding and participation in this vital aspect of life. The common habit of shrouding sexual topics in a shroud of secrecy, shame, and misinformation has resulted in a distorted and harmful view of sexuality, perpetuating ignorance and maintaining baseless fears.

Providing truthful, age-appropriate sex education is important to foster healthy attitudes

Osho strongly advocates for truthful, age-appropriate sex education. He argues that through open discussions that cover all aspects of sexuality, children can develop a deep understanding of their own bodies, feelings, and the complexities of intimate relationships. He advises that mentors and guardians, such as teachers and parents, ought to cultivate an open and honest environment for sexual education, where young people can ask questions without hesitation, fulfill their curiosity, and acknowledge the natural elegance and typical nature of sexual matters.

By fostering a culture that embraces open and clear discussions on sexual matters, we can cultivate a society that is better educated, balanced, and in harmony with this vital aspect of human existence.

Other Perspectives

• Societal and religious institutions may argue that their guidance on sexuality is meant to promote social order and moral behavior, not repression.
• Some scholars and historians might suggest that the vilification of sexual expression has been more nuanced and varied across different cultures and time periods.
• There could be a perspective that not all psychological and societal dysfunctions are directly related to issues of sexuality, but rather to a complex interplay of various factors.
• Critics might argue that some level of regulation of sexual behavior is necessary to ensure public health and safety.
• There is a viewpoint that indulgence in sexuality without any boundaries can lead to negative consequences for individuals and society.
• Some educators and parents may believe that age-appropriate sex education should also include discussions about abstinence and the potential emotional and physical consequences of sexual activity.
• It could be argued that a balanced approach to sexuality must also consider the diverse values and beliefs of different cultures and individuals.
• There may be a counterargument that spiritual enrichment does not necessarily have to be linked with sexual expression, and that spirituality can be pursued in various ways.
• Some might contend that the current societal attitudes towards sex are not solely the result of historical repression but also of contemporary media and commercial influences.