HBO’s satirical mystery drama anthology series The White Lotus has returned with Season 3, making people wonder about its setting, plot, and the meaning of “Tantric,” a word mentioned in the premiere episode. This time, the setting is the Thai branch of the eponymous hotel chain on the island of Koh Samui. The plot focuses on a new set of characters along with a few returning members from Season 1, including Natasha Rothwell’s Belinda Lindsey. The word “Tantric” appears in the interaction between two new characters, Walton Goggins’ Rick Hatchett and Aimee Lou Wood’s Chelsea, and here’s what it means.
What does tantric mean in The White Lotus Season 3 Episode 1?
The word “Tantric” in The White Lotus Season 3 Episode 1 likely refers to Tantric Yoga, a branch of yoga and associated practices.
Tantra, in Hinduism and other Dharmic religions, is an esoteric tradition that dates back around 2,000 years. It’s a dense philosophy that often focuses on the importance of mantras, or sacred chanting. The concept of Tantra has evolved often in different ways in different Dharmic religions and has impacted other theological pursuits in Asia.
In the episode, Rick seems to be struggling with something and isn’t entirely on board with his much younger girlfriend Chelsea’s plans for the holiday. During one of their scenes together, Chelsea asks Rick if he wants to get into some Tantric later to lift his spirit but he leaves angrily.
The unspoken hint here is sex, and sexual intimacy is an important component of Tantric Yoga, but the tradition encompasses much more. Chelsea is former a yoga teacher and a free-spirited and seemingly happy-go-lucky character. When she tells her boyfriend that they can get into some Tantric later, she is likely referring to the sexual aspects of Tantric Yoga in the hopes of having a better holiday. Unfortunately, Rick seems to be preoccupied. He even states at one point in the episode that he’s in Thailand for a vacation.
