Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Tantra Yoga?
  Well, for starters, it's not what you saw in the movie American Pie! Tantra is thousands of years old (of Hindu and Buddhist tradition) and has become a buzzword which unfortunately has some misleading definitions. Translated from Sanskrit, it means "weaving," which we have come to understand as oneness. Bringing oneness to yourself and consciousness to what you do. Exercises involving breathing and meditation are a part of Tantra and are designed to bring you into a state of being more present. And who doesn't want to be more present in their relationships?
• What is a Puja?
  A Puja is an intentional ceremony. Translated from Sanskrit it means reverence, an offering. It is a ritual designed to open our hearts and allow us to see the inner beauty within ourselves and all beings. It invites us into the elegant dance of masculine and feminine in a warm space of oneness and connection--what a great way to start your first date!
• What does it look like?
  Participants form two circles facing each other. The men form the outside circle and the women form the inside, with each woman facing a man. Each pair then share a meaningful exchange through a directed exercise (a Puja "station"), which can be for a few seconds or a few minutes. Then they put their hands together in 'Namaste', thank each other and--like a speed date--rotate to the next person. The ceremony ends when everyone has rotated a full circle.
• What kinds of exercises are there?
  The exercises are non-romantic, based in human connection: verbal exercises, light partner yoga, dance, breathing and meditation, eye-gazing, conscious touch (holding hands, hands on heart)... things that go a bit beyond the obligatory "what do you do/where are you from." And you are always invited to participate however you choose.
  
  What's unique is that each exercise has a kernel of positive relating skill. So you're practicing helpful relationship skills while you're having fun!
• What if I don't want to do an exercise?
  Thanks for asking! While the exercises are straightforward and fun, you are always 100% at choice for how you wish to participate. If you find an exercise that doesn't work for you, then--just like in yoga--you have the option to modify, or completely opt out. Everyone is encouraged to participate at their own comfort level, and our facilitators demonstrate what that looks like, so everyone is clear before we begin.
• So how is this a dating event?
  What makes this a "date" is that you get to choose who you enjoyed interacting with, and we'll put you in touch after the event. We like to let the women choose. The women will get to sense each man's personality and presence and decide who they may want to get to know better. Men will be instructed on how to be grounded and open-hearted so they can be felt. We find when we trust the wisdom of the feminine somehow it all works out.
• What is the schedule for each event?
  • Doors open at the published start time. That's when we check you in and give you your dating materials (everyone must check in to participate). You also receive a playing card for our IceBreaker game. You'll have until the ceremony begins to play the game.
  • 20 minutes in: We begin to take folks from the waiting list (subject to capacity and gender balance.)
  • 30 minutes in: The IceBreaker game concludes and we close the doors to begin the ceremony. Anyone that hasn't checked in before this time will not be able to participate. (See our late/cancellation policy below).
• What should I wear?
  You'll want to look good, yet also be comfortable enough to stand, move, and sit cross-legged. There isn't a tremendous amount of movement; we've had folks show up after work in suits and they've managed okay, but you want to be comfortable to move. Don't worry about shoes, we'll take those off before we start.
  
  And remember, you're going on a date. So do make sure to groom yourself and have good hygiene appropriate to interact with potential dates. *Please no strong scents as some are sensitive to that.
• Is there food or drink at the event?
  There is no food or drink provided at the event (unless it's a special occasion). It's a good idea to bring a bottle of water. You could bring a snack for before or after (note that some venues may not allow food). However, you will have only a short moment with each date, so you probably won't want to eat during the ceremony. And, there is no alcohol (so please do not arrive drunk) as you want to be conscious for your dates.
• What is the gender balance at the event?
  We don't believe in leaving anyone out of the fun, so we do our best to aim for an equal gender balance. Of course, it isn't always 100% under our control--even our matchmaking powers have their limits. But so far, just about every event has been sold out. And since we have an equal number of tickets per gender, they've all had a solid mix of singles ready to mingle! (We also occasionally use door sales magic to balance the gender too.)
• What is the age range?
  Some events have a suggested age range (noted in the title and description) and some are open to all ages. If you see an age range, know that it's not a hard and fast rule. If you're slightly outside the range, or want to meet people in that range, you are welcome to attend.
  
  Our open age events are the most popular: Singles 30-45 tend to be the largest group. Followed by folks 45+ and then 20s. The youngest person ever was 19, and the oldest 76--yep!--and he received a standing ovation.
  
  But here's the thing. It's more than just about the dates. And this is what makes Tantra Speed Date unique. Singles everywhere rave about how the experience itself can be quite transformative, regardless of their matches. Why? Simply engaging consciously with other singles in a positive and structured way promotes more healthy relationships. And it just plain feels good to connect with real people. You likely have never experienced dating in such a fun and comfortable way. You'll gain confidence, pick up new skills, and will likely start to attract more quality people into your life. That's what our participants say over and over again!
• How many dates will I have?
  Up to 20 dates. Each event can accommodate approximately 40 participants, so assuming a perfect gender balance, everyone would have a maximum of 20 dates.
• What if I don't match with anyone?
  As many of our attendees say, "I don't even care if I match with anyone, this was amazing!" That said, we geek out on data. Our statistics say there is a 94.05% chance you'll match with AT LEAST one person. But if for whatever reason the probability fails you, we've got you covered. Your next ticket will be free!
• I saw the event posted without a lot of RSVPs. Will there be enough people?
  Not to worry! Just about every event so far has sold out, often with a waiting list. We do a great job getting the word out and therefore the event is posted in multiple places. And some forums simply get more traffic than others, so don't worry if you see less people RSVP in one place than another. We wouldn't proceed with an event if there weren't enough people to make it worthwhile for everyone.
• Do I have to be single to attend?
  One would imagine! We realize there are many classifications of relationship status these days. So as long as you are available to meet a romantic partner, you are welcome to attend. If your situation makes it so you are not open to meeting someone (for instance, if you're in a monogamous relationship), then it would not be appropriate for you to attend.
• Is this a heterosexual event and is there a Queer/LGBTQ Tantra Speed Date?
  This current iteration of Tantra Speed Date is geared towards men-seeking-women and women-seeking-men. In the ceremony, we will form two circles: one for men and one for women. That means if you attend, you will have to choose which circle to participate in. For example, if you're in the men's circle, you'll go on up to 20 dates with each woman in the women's circle. And vice-versa. We also have a Queer version of the event which happens from time to time in select cities. You can check our website to see if there are any coming up.
• What is your cancellation/refund policy?
  We want you to have a great time at our event. However, life happens, and sometimes you can't make it. If you cancel 24 hours or more before the event you can get a full refund via EventBrite. If you cancel within 24 hours of event start time (or you are late and miss the ceremony start), we can move your ticket to the next event as a one-time courtesy, provided you give us email notice. If you miss the second event, then sadly your ticket becomes forfeit. Either way, make sure to notify us via email before the event starts, as we cannot offer any refunds or transfers after the event has started.
• Can I give/re-sell my ticket to someone else?
  Tickets are non-transferable. Please do not sell your ticket to someone else; it confuses the system and people don't get their proper matches. You can request a refund or be moved to the next event (see above). However, in any case, you must let us know so we can open up your spot to someone else. No notice, no refund/transfer.
• Can I sign up my friend?
  Absolutely! And thanks for sharing it with your friends! However, do be sure to fill out their name and their email address on the attendee form. Otherwise we will not be able to check them in properly, and they will not receive all the wonderful matches they'll make at the event. If we had a nickel for how many times your friends email us wondering where their matches went... well, you get the picture. So please. Do your friends a solid and fill in their proper details.
• What is the Tantra Institute?
  The Tantra Institute's mission is to empower people to connect more consciously using the tools and teachings of (primarily) Tantra. We hold multiple events, and work with singles and couples to help them increase their capacity for intimacy, authenticity, and pleasure. All our events are listed on our website: https://www.tantrany.com/. Subscribe to be kept up to date with our latest offerings! (Make sure to select your city so we only send you events that are geographically relevant!)
• I had an amazing time, how do I learn more?
  Most people do! If you're in New York, come to our other events, visit us Facebook, or Subscribe to be kept up to date with our latest offerings!
• What other events do you offer?
  Aside from Tantra Speed Date, we offer workshops to help increase intimacy and connection for both singles and couples. You can learn about our other offerings on our website: www.TantraNY.com
• Why is this experience called 'More than Dating'?
  This event is more than just a speed date. It""'s about bringing more connection, and perhaps healing, to the masculine and feminine within us. That""'s the juicy part of a connection that makes relationships so fun. Men learn how to hold a grounded masculine space. And when that happens, women can relax into their feminine and not have to do or hold so much. This creates a new way of relating that is easeful and connected, and not something you can ever experience in a bar or on a dating app. We believe this is why people love it so much and why one participant said it will 'restore your hope in dating.'
• More Questions?
  Contact us, we'll be happy to tell you more about this event or others.

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