Shadow Yoga

Shadow Yoga, founded by Natanaga Zhander (Shandor Remete), is Hatha Yoga taught through the practice of three set sequences (Balakrama, Chaya Yoddha Sanchalanam and Kartikkeya Mandala). These lead to the eventual application of an-argula-reti (freestyle), where the practice is guided intuitively.

Simple repetitive movements are practiced to breakdown the blockages and habits that exist in our physical, subtle and causal bodies.

The set sequences of Shadow Yoga combine various viraparampara (warrior/martial stances) and suryanamaskaras (sun salutations). These precede the preliminary, primary, intermediate and advanced asana-vinyasas. Each form concludes with inverted asanas which act as a bridge for the practice of pranayama and other internal hatha yoga practices.

Shadow Yoga utilizes the guiding principles of Marmasthana, (the Indian system of the 108 vital junctions of the body), to achieve the appropriate combination of positions and rhythmical movements to obtain an unobstructed movement of breath.

Shadow Yoga at Hatha Yoga Desha

Introduction to Shadow Yoga
This is the starting point for those new to Shadow Yoga or coming from other Hatha Yoga styles. Here the basics of Shadow Yoga theory and practice are introduced through a sequence of warm ups, spinal stretches, squats, twists and standing movements. The practice concludes with warm downs and relaxation. From here students can progress to our Level 1 Prelude classes.

1. Balakrama (Stepping into Strength)
Balakrama is introduced in our Level 1 Prelude classes. It strengthens the muscular-skeletal structure and begins the process of stabilizing the breath through the rhythmic repetition of simple vertical movements. It increases flexibility and helps focus the mind.

2. Chaya Yoddha Sanchalanam (Churning of the Shadow Warrior)
This prelude is for level 2 students who have an understanding of the Balakrama prelude. It integrates the use of all the bandas and improves the circulation of breath, blood, lymph and life force. The cultivation of this prelude allows students to enter the intermediate asanas with understanding and confidence.

3. Kartikkeya Mandala (Garland of Light)
This prelude is for experienced students who maintain a regular practice of the Balakrama and Chaya Yoddha Sanchalanam preludes. Here the breath is refined through circular, spiral and swaying movements. This prelude prepares students for the practice of advanced asana and inversions.

Course concept

In each Shadow Yoga course a sequence of preparatory movements and spinal stretches are introduced prior to the practice of the given prelude form which consists of karanas, dynamic postures, salutations, asanas (seats) and the conclusion consisting of preparation for inversions, pranayama and finishing with warm downs.

By learning a sequence you can focus on cultivating rhythmic breathing and the meditative aspects of the practice.

The teaching is sequential and progressive - so it is important to come to every class. Each class will include some demonstration by the teacher, verbal instruction and where appropriate personal adjustments. Each class introduces new elements of the sequence and the final class in each course is a led practice to allow each student to flow through the sequence with the emphasis on smooth breathing meditative focus.

Simple and more complex variations of karanas and asana will be given and can be modified to accommodate people with injuries or medical conditions.