Don Juan and the Art of Sexual Energy – The Rainbow Serpent of the Toltecs

A title such as Don Juan and the Art of Sexual Energy can be misleading. Those expecting a smooth manual that reads like a Joy to Toltec Sex will be sorely disappointed. On the other hand, those hoping for an ambitious discussion of the shape shifting, trances, energy scanning, and archetypal imagery that characterize Toltec sexuality will be deeply gratified. Like the famous writer Carlos Castaneda, who introduced Toltec teachings to the greater world, Merilyn Tunneshende often shifts into dream-like narratives. For example, in a passage where she discusses the sensual power of nature, Tunneshende recounts a trance under the guidance of her shaman and teacher. Lying beneath a mesquite tree, she has a vision that she is “moving through the interior of the plant, much like a whole egg moves through the body of a snake when swallowed.” When she arrived at the base of the plant, “a trumpeting white flower sprouted from my head and my ovaries turned in on themselves….” Fortunately, the closing of every chapter is grounded with concise, easy-to-follow exercises, such as how to draw upon and release sexual energy in nature or how to perform “fire breath” to raise sexual energy in the body. –Gail Hudson

“This is a uniquely powerful and magical book. . . . especially inspiring to women. Refreshing. ” Source: Sara Ling, Magical Blend, Issue #76

“It is a masterfully written account of numerous initiations in the use of sexual energy for balance and empowerment as facilitated for Tunneshende by Don Juan. . . . This is not only a good read, it’s also a useful guide.” Source: Chiwah, The Light Connection, February 2002

“A splendid work that successfully brings the beauty of practice and the wisdom of consciousness into our very personal lives.” Source: The Book Reader, Fall/Winter 2001-2002