The Kamasutra, composed by Vatsyayana, is not merely a manual on sexual positions—it is a complex, nuanced guide to human intimacy, pleasure, and emotional connection. Among the numerous postures described for enhancing physical union, the Widely Opened Position stands out as an emblem of surrender, vulnerability, deep trust, and erotic power. This position is both literal and symbolic, representing the open-hearted and open-bodied connection between two lovers.

In this article, we’ll explore The Widely Opened Position in a holistic manner: its historical context, physical technique, emotional symbolism, physiological benefits, modern interpretations, variations, and how it fits into the broader tapestry of Kamasutra’s sensual teachings.

Historical and Philosophical Context

The Kamasutra is a Sanskrit text compiled between the 3rd and 5th centuries CE, and while widely misrepresented in modern times as purely a sex manual, it is actually a comprehensive discourse on the art of living well, including love, courtship, aesthetics, etiquette, and personal fulfillment.

Within this framework, sexual union (maithuna) is one aspect of the human experience and is approached with sacred attention. Positions such as The Widely Opened Position are not just mechanical suggestions; they are invitations to spiritual and emotional merging. This specific posture reflects an openness of both body and mind, suggesting complete availability to one’s partner, a surrender of ego, and a welcoming of pleasure.

Physical Description of The Widely Opened Position

The position involves the woman lying on her back with her legs spread as far apart as possible, often with assistance (pillows, grips, or a partner’s arms), while the man enters her from the front in a missionary-like or kneeling position. The legs may be elevated, bent at the knees, or placed on the partner’s shoulders, depending on flexibility and desired intensity.

Key Features:

• Leg Spread: The woman’s legs are opened wide, creating maximum exposure and access.
• Support: Cushions or hand holds can be used to provide stability.
• Penetration Depth: This position allows for deep vaginal penetration and alignment of erogenous zones.
• Visual Connection: Lovers can maintain eye contact, enhancing emotional intimacy.

Vulnerability & Power: The position showcases the paradoxical mix of surrender (in openness) and power (in control of depth and rhythm).

Emotional and Symbolic Significance

The act of opening one’s body in such a position carries rich symbolic meaning in the Kamasutra:

Trust and Vulnerability

The Widely Opened Position demands trust. It is one of the most exposed positions for the receiver, symbolizing the letting down of guards and the willingness to be completely seen, touched, and known.

Openness and Surrender

Opening the legs wide can be likened to opening the heart. In the tantric understanding, the body mirrors the psyche. Thus, a widely opened body posture can reflect an emotional readiness to merge and melt into the other.

Celebration of Feminine Power

Though the position may appear passive, it is a powerful celebration of the female form. The woman’s openness is not weakness, but an active receptivity—a magnetic force drawing in pleasure, connection, and love.

Technique and Alignment

Preparation

• Communication beforehand is key.
• Emotional safety must be ensured.
• The bed or surface should be comfortable and supportive.
• Stretching beforehand may be helpful for flexibility.

Positioning the Woman

• Lie flat on the back.
• Spread the legs wide, gently and gradually.
• Elevate the pelvis with a cushion if needed to enhance the angle.

Positioning the Man

• Enter from the front or slightly from above.
• Use hands to hold the woman’s thighs or calves for rhythm and balance.
• Maintain a rhythm that syncs with her breath and comfort.

Variations

• With raised legs: The legs can be lifted onto the partner’s shoulders.
• With bondage (advanced play): Silk ties can hold legs apart (only with prior consent).
• With props: Pillows under the hips can elevate the pelvis and allow different angles.

Pleasure Zones and Erotic Stimulation

The Widely Opened Position allows for:

• Deep Penetration: Which can stimulate the anterior vaginal wall (G-spot area).
• Clitoral Access: The clitoris remains exposed for manual or oral stimulation.
• Breast and Neck Play: The upper body is easily accessible for touch and kisses.
• Visual Erotic Power: Partners can enjoy watching each other’s expressions and movements.

Psychological Dimensions

Beyond the physical aspects, this position engages various emotional and psychological states.

Power Play

Though the man appears dominant in position, the true control can rest with the woman, who guides the depth, pace, and access with her subtle body cues.

Erotic Confidence

For many women, embracing this position can become a transformative experience—releasing shame, embracing their sexual body, and claiming erotic confidence.

Mirror of Inner Openness

Sexual positions often mirror inner psychological states. When one feels emotionally safe, the body opens. Thus, practicing this position with a conscious partner can deepen emotional intimacy and mutual respect.

Communication and Consent

Kamasutra emphasizes the importance of mutual enjoyment and shared consent. Partners must:

• Communicate openly about desires, limits, and sensations.
• Use feedback during the act to adjust pressure, rhythm, and angle.
• Express appreciation and affection throughout.
• This reinforces not just sexual satisfaction but relational closeness and respect.

Variations and Adaptations

The position can be modified based on flexibility, health, or novelty.

Butterfly Variation

The woman lies on the edge of the bed with legs spread, while the man stands or kneels between them, enhancing control and ease.

Wide Lotus

Both partners sit facing each other with legs intertwined and wide open, blending the openness of the position with the intimacy of eye contact and full-body connection.

Yoga-Inspired Variations

Advanced versions may incorporate yogic flexibility—such as placing the legs behind the head or using yoga blocks for pelvic tilt.

Enhancing with Sensual Elements

To enrich the experience, lovers can integrate sensory pleasures:

• Scents: Use of essential oils like sandalwood or jasmine to enhance sensuality.
• Sound: Soft music or affirming whispers enhance relaxation.
• Sight: Candlelight or gentle gaze intensifies intimacy.
• Touch: Feather strokes, light massage, or warm oils amplify pleasure.

These elements awaken not just the body but also the subtle energy centers (chakras), as described in Tantric traditions that run parallel to the Kamasutra.

Health and Energetic Benefits

Practicing this position consciously offers multiple benefits:

• Pelvic Health
  It stretches the pelvic region, improving circulation and reducing tension.
• Emotional Release
  It can bring up emotional blocks tied to vulnerability or self-image, allowing healing through intimacy.
• Chakra Alignment
  The position activates the sacral chakra (Svadhisthana), which governs creativity, sensuality, and emotional flow.
• Hormonal Balance
  Orgasm in such open and connected states supports the release of oxytocin, dopamine, and endorphins, improving emotional bonding and stress reduction.

11. Spiritual Interpretation
Some Tantric texts, influenced by or aligned with the Kamasutra, view such sexual positions as gateways to spiritual union—maithuna not as mere intercourse but as a ritual merging of the divine masculine and feminine.

In the Widely Opened Position, the female embodies Shakti (creative energy), open and expansive, while the male embodies Shiva (consciousness), penetrating and stabilizing. Their union is a dance of the cosmos—where love, pleasure, and spirit converge.

Cautions and Mindfulness

Though the position can be deeply pleasurable, it should be approached mindfully:

• Avoid if either partner experiences hip, pelvic, or lower back pain.
• Never force the legs beyond their natural range—respect the body’s boundaries.
• Emotional safety is vital—this position can bring up feelings of exposure or self-consciousness.

Integration into Lovemaking

The Widely Opened Position need not be used in isolation. It can be part of a larger sensual sequence:

• Begin with gentle foreplay, kisses, or massage.
• Slowly transition into the position.
• Explore rhythm and pressure while maintaining emotional connection.
• End with cuddling, whispers, or mutual appreciation to seal the bond.