Shadow Yoga
The application of Shadow Yoga is the perfect introduction to the study of yoga. Practice of the forms of Shadow Yoga are designed to release obstructions, tensions and habits in the individual while cultivating strength and mindfulness.
Shadow Yoga is Hatha Yoga where the restrictions in the physical body are seen as layers of frozen shadows. Through the practice of a series of sequences, as developed by Sundernath (Shandor Remete), the body is freed of these restrictions which in turn releases the mind from its conditioning. Progress through these forms brings about changes in flexibility and firmness,cultivates smooth breathing as well as awareness of the rhythmic flow of the inner motions of the life force. This prepares the student for the eventual application of “freestyle” where their Hatha Yoga practice is guided by intuitive responses.
The fixed forms of Shadow Yoga incorporate simple repetitive movements utilising the principles of Marmasthana (vital junctions of energy found on the surface of the body) effective in releasing (injury,trauma,or lifestyle) blockages in the body which ultimately lead to the unobstructed circulation of the life force.
Emphasis is placed on cultivating digestive fire (jatara agni) which nurtures blood and bone and builds a strong constitution and healthy immune system.
As with other self cultivating arts, Shadow Yoga is taught in a course based format. This offers students a systematic, progressive, sequential understanding on which to build a solid yoga practice and a foundation for good health.
The style is graceful, fluid and dynamic with equal emphasis on movement and breath.
“By controlling the downward action of inspiration (apana) and the upward action of expiration (prana) the practitioner simultaneously quiets and balances the three humours, purifies the channels of the subtle body, controls the movement of vital energy throughout the physical and subtle bodies, and develops control of his mind in single – point concentration” Zarilli, P. (1998) pp132-133.
Shadow Yoga Foundations
Our foundation courses introduce form, philosophy and breath and are an ideal starting point for students new to Shadow Yoga. Focus on strengthening bones/blood/breath, freeing joints and toning your abdomen. Suitable for new students.
From 5:45 am by arrangement with Louise. This class cultivates personal practice under supervision with one-to-one style teaching.
Balakrama – Stepping into Strength
This practice increases strength and endurance through firm joint and bone work which in turn builds blood and breath.
Chaya Yoddha Sancalanam – Churning the Shadow Warrior
A flowing and spiralling form that refines the coordination of movement and breath integrating the use of all the bandhas.This intermediate level works to free the structure by further breaking down restrictions in the hips and tension in the shoulders and so enhancing the circulation of the life force. These skills together with the conscious application of the marmasthana enable the student to enter the intermediate asanas with understanding and confidence.
Kartikeya Mandala – Garland of Light
Increases circulation and penetration helping to free the spine from the imposition of the limbs through circular body movements. In this form one learns to prolong the duration of the breath by moving the body in a circular manner in accordance with the circulation of blood.
“The sequential arrangement of bodily shapes as well as the arrangement within these shapes.” www.shadowyoga.com Utilising linear and/or circular and swaying arrangements.
The practice of Shadow Yoga is a prerequisite to Nrtta Sadhana.
Includes the eight Mother Palms (Astha Matrika), Kali’s Creative Dance (Lasya) and Shiva’s Destructive Dance (Ananda Tandava). The adaptation of rhythmic dance for the purpose of self-cultivation is a natural extension of Shadow Yoga and serves as preparation for the more internal practices of yoga. “Nrtta is that Sadhana through which the Sadhana (aspirant) rediscovers the rhythmic life currents hidden in the body’s folds and limbs by means of unimposed natural positioning”. Shandor Remete.
For more information on Shadow Yoga:
www.shadowyoga.com
