Taoist sexuality , as presented by Jolan Chang in *The Tao of the Art of Loving* , is based on the philosophy of yin and yang , two complementary forces that symbolize the feminine and the masculine. This approach, originating from Chinese tradition, is therefore primarily described in a male-female dynamic : yang (masculine) energy is channeled and controlled, while yin (feminine) energy unfolds and radiates .
It is important to clarify that this vision is rooted in a binary understanding of gender , specific to its time and culture. It may not reflect the full diversity of romantic and sexual experiences... But underlying it, one can see a more universal invitation: to explore the encounter between two complementary energies, regardless of how they manifest in a relationship.
1. The harmony of breaths
In Taoist sexuality, breathing plays a central role. Synchronizing one's breath with that of one's partner helps to calm the mind and open the body to pleasure. Breathing deeply and slowly helps to circulate sexual energy throughout the body. Pleasure becomes more diffuse, more intense, and above all, more lasting.
👉 Practical tip: sit facing each other, bring your faces closer and let your breaths synchronize naturally, like a silent dance.
2. Male restraint: differentiating between orgasm and ejaculation
Taoism views ejaculation as an expenditure of vital energy ( jing ). Therefore, men are encouraged to first learn to control their arousal in order to prolong pleasure—both for their partner and themselves. The goal is to experience multiple orgasms without ejaculating every time, which strengthens their vitality, increases intimacy, and intensifies the shared sexual experience.
👉 Practical tip: when excitement rises too quickly, slow down, breathe and change pace to regain control.
3. Feminine power: woman as a source of energy
In the Taoist view, women possess an overflowing and regenerative sexual energy. Their pleasure nourishes and revitalizes their partner . The more she blossoms, the more powerful the flow of energy between them becomes. The man becomes the attentive guardian who stimulates, caresses, and creates space for her to unleash her power. In short, female orgasm is the ultimate goal for a united and harmonious couple.
👉 Practical tip: Take your time to explore your body/your partner's body, without rushing, awakening all their pleasure zones. Ensure their pleasure and orgasmic peaks.
4. Slowness and variety: the art of rhythm
Taoist love is a dance of slowness and variation . Every part of the body can become erotic. Caresses and penetrations vary in intensity: fast, slow, deep, shallow. Pleasure is not limited to a single climax but is a succession of waves—which can last for hours.
👉 Practical tip: Regularly change the rhythm, like a melody, to prolong the excitement and create a sensory journey. Don't use your partner to "masturbate" yourself, but connect with them to fully feel their power and the strength of your intimate bond.
5. Sexuality as meditation
For Taoists, the sexual act is a form of meditation . Every glance, every shiver is a bodily mantra. Orgasm is no longer merely physical: it becomes an opening of consciousness. Intimacy becomes a sacred space for inner transformation. 👉 Practical tip: during lovemaking, focus your attention on your sensations and those of your partner, like a meditation for two.
In short:
Taoist sexuality encourages slowing down, breathing, and savoring. For men: channeling and preserving their vital energy, controlling ejaculation to experience a less energy-draining orgasmic flow, allowing them to last longer for their partner. For women: blossoming in pleasure and radiating their sexual power. Together, it's about transforming the sexual act into an alchemy of pleasure, vitality, and spirituality .