MATT PESENDIAN
HEALING ARTS
Shadow Yoga, founded by Sundernath (Shandor Remete), is a Hatha Yoga system that utilizes 3 Standing Prelude Forms, rhythmic breathing, bandhas (energetic locks) and the system of marma (trigger points) to free the body of its physical, energetic and mental/emotional obstructions. Ultimately, like all Hatha Yoga, it is designed to ignite our inner fire for meditation, healing and most importantly, living our path.
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Shadow Yoga Warm Ups and Standing Prelude Forms are first introduced to prepare one to safely and effectively practice the more advanced limbs of Hatha Yoga. The Shadow Yoga Full Practice Format consists of primary asana-vinyasas, kriyas, mudras, inversions, pranayama (breath control), pratyahara (withdrawal of senses) and laya (absorption).
SHADOW YOGA BASIC SERIES
This course introduces the basic philosophy and practices of Shadow Yoga, such as Dasa Chalana (joint warm-ups), Jiva Chalana (Churning of the Inner Self), basic standing postures and ujjayi breathing. Uddiyana bandha (navel lock) is also introduced to train breath control, promote blood/lymph circulation, build inner heat and tonify the organs and brain.
This course is a prerequisite for all other Shadow Yoga prelude courses. All levels are welcome.
BALAKRAMA SERIES
Stepping into Strength
Traditionally Balakrama is the first Shadow Yoga prelude that is introduced to those new to this style of Hatha Yoga. A dynamic bone strengthening form based on endurance, it actively engages one’s feet, ankles, knees, hips, navel and breath.
This course is recommended for students who have completed the
Shadow Yoga Basics series.
CHAYA YODDHA SANCHALANAM SERIES
Churning of the Shadow Warrior
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The Tai Chi classics state:
“The internal energy, chi, roots at the feet, then transfers through the legs and is controlled from the waist, moving eventually through the back to the arms and fingertips.”
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This prelude is designed to teach the essence of this foundational energetic principle which lies at the heart of all internal arts. Along with activating the pranic winds (vayu/nadis), this warrior-sun form teaches one the art of graceful coordination.
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This course is recommended for students who have completed the Shadow Yoga Basics and Balakrama prelude series.
KARTTIKEYA MANDALAM
Garland of Light
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This advanced warrior-sun prelude form consists of intricate stance, waist, spine and arm work, which further increases, refines and penetrates the pranic force within. This prelude completes the foundational training required for entering the Shadow Yoga Full Practice Format and Nrtta Sadhana (The Rhythmic Dance of Shiva and its practice).
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This course is open to those who have completed the Shadow Yoga Basics, Balakrama and Chaya Yoddha Sanchalanam preludes series.
NRTTA SADHANA IMMERSIONS
The Rhythmic Dance of Shiva and its practice.
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This practice is a natural extension of Shadow Yoga and is taught to those who have thoroughly learned and practiced all 3 prelude forms.
ASANA ANGAHARA IMMERSION
This practice is a natural extension of Shadow Yoga and is taught to those who have thoroughly learned and practiced all 3 prelude forms and Eight Palms: Level 1 of Nrtta Sadhana.
PRANAYAMA, MUDRA & MEDITATION IMMERSION
This practice is a natural extension of Shadow Yoga and is taught to those who have thoroughly learned and practiced all 3 prelude forms, Eight Palms and Asana Angahara.
