Asanas

Article by Sundernath (Shandor Remete)

Asana

The first limb of Hatha yoga is Asana and is classified as bahiranga sadhana (external practice). Though Asana means ‘seat’ or ‘to sit’, it also has a dynamic aspect. Before one is able to sit in a light and unobstructed manner for prolonged periods of time, one must first practice dynamically to overcome the restrictive patterns that have arisen in previous stages of life. 

‘Since the acceptance of a refined regimen is preceded by unrefined methods, the regimen for yoga is first prescribed in order to eliminate the regulations intrinsic to the previous stage of life and to make known the regulations intrinsic to the transcendent stage of life’. 

– Pashupata Sutras, Commentary on Chapter One.  

This verse suggests that a change in mindset is crucial since one cannot embark on the path of yoga with the mindset that served a completely different state of affairs. There is also an implication that a method exists that will enable a smooth changeover of these mindsets without disruption. This method is Sankalpa (lit. the will of determination) and when this is correctly implemented, a spontaneous flow of the divine desire floods the entire system. It is through this will of determination that the mind is harnessed and both mind and body brought under control.

Sankalpa usually follows a short prayer paying homage to the Guru and a plea for safety during and after sadhana – its full title is Sankalpa Mudra and Nyasa. Mudra and nyasa are hand and finger gestures utilised in touching the energetic sites on the body while mentally going through the different layers of energetic paths and sites within. This process (kriya) takes between 15 and 20 minutes, usually concludes with a healing mantra uttered 27 times, and leads into the practice of asanas. 

Sankalpa is a powerful tool that demands of the mind that it remain concentrated and alert within the energetic fields of the body complex. The method of Sankalpa is imparted to a student when he or she is mature enough to start working with it. It is inappropriate while the student is still rough and their practice mechanical.  Sankalpa is never given but must be earned. The content of Sankalpa varies from lineage to lineage according to geographical and cultural differences. 

Dynamic Asanas

The dynamic asanas develop the skills necessary to govern the energetic fields of the mind/body complex. Additional benefits include the restoration of the body’s health, the gaining of flexibility, lightness of structure, an unobstructed flow of the life force as well as strength and endurance. These accomplishments are also important in preparing the individual for the internal practices (pranayama, bandhas-kriyas-mudras et al). The most important matter during this process is that one does not confuse these auxiliary benefits with the goal.  The goal is achieving the final state of yoga, freedom through enlightenment. 

The development of the right skills for the un-imposed control of the mind-body complex through the will of determination is the goal of Bahiranga Sadhana. Impatience is the biggest pitfall on the way of yogic sadhana. One must work with patience and consistency and without break, never exceeding ones natural capacity. The asanas are of many different kinds and types including squatting, standing, sitting, lying down, face up, face down, sideways, head down, turning, twisting, jumping, pumping and weighing. However one should not focus on mastering hundreds of asanas. Indeed the oldest texts on Hatha yoga give very few asanas to practice. This is because each asana has mild, medium and intense variations and those that are knowledgable utilise them appropriately. For instance forward and backward bendings must be stabilised with balancing asanas to overcome the one-sidedness of those positions. The dynamic asanas conclude with supine positions like supta trivikramasana and anantasana followed by the inverted positions.

The beginner always starts with a fixed arrangement of dynamic asanas which may be termed Angahara (arrangement), Vinyasa Krama (step by step placement) or Sukshma Vyayamas (subtle restraining drills). These sequences range from primary through intermediate to intense (or advanced). These systematic courses carry the hidden message that one must not attempt to go beyond ones limit. It is wise if one stops at the asana which is not accessible and does not go further until one has gained mastery over it. These systems vary from master to master so it is vital that one stays where one has begun and sees it through. ‘Shopping around’ will only cause confusion and produce a jack-of-all-trades and master of none. 

Advanced practitioners who have mastered the different levels of intensity, no longer need fixed sequences. They create their own based upon the needs and requirements of the time. Until they are able to function in this free manner they have not mastered the craft of the dynamic practices; all they have gained is a partial ability.  When mastery is complete, a feeling of revulsion arises with regard to fixed patterns. This is the sign that one is ready for the practices of pranayama which must be conducted at sunrise, noon, sunset and midnight if one is to make progress towards samadhi, the equanimous state beyond the mind-body complex. 

Static Asanas

The Sanskrit term Kalitasanam, refers to a formed seat. This seat has been formed by what has preceded it. Since it is formed, karana (cause) and karya (effect) are united in it. Since it is formed one may rest (aste) in it. Thus the yogin with his own will and by his own power governs (adhyaste) the effect which is in his/her power.

Mastery of the dynamic sphere opens the gate to the unknown mysteries of mind/body function. Beyond this gate is Antaranga Sadhana, the internal cultivation of the life wind. Here one encounters the hidden aspects of fear, anger, aggression, dependence, heart rate increase/decrease, addiction, submission, and flight. The currents of the life wind  must be purged of these emotional ailments by Nadi Suddhi Pranayama. 

Guru Goraknath in his Shatakam, and his guru Matsyendranath in his Samhita, only give one asana for pranayama – Baddha padmasana (bound lotus posture). Nadi Suddhi pranayama is alternate nostril breathing. Here is some food for thought.

The static asanas will be discussed in detail in the next article which deals with pranayama. 

Shadow Yoga © Sundernath (Shandor Remete)

Shadow Yoga is concerned with the social and environmental impacts of industry and the marginalisation of various groups. We have pledged 1% of sales to help fund diverse grassroots organizations and appreciate the support of our community.

In 2002, Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, and Craig Mathews, founder of Blue Ribbon Flies, created 1% for the Planet and started a global movement. “The intent of 1% for the Planet is to help fund these diverse environmental organizations so that collectively they can be a more powerful source in solving the world’s problems.”

Booking COMO

The offering from COMO Uma Ubud.

Please email Wira Setiawati directly to make your booking or for further information

Group Name: Shadow Yoga Retreat
Accommodation for 6 nights from 30 November to 6 December 2025 
Package Rate: Based on 10% discount from published rates.

Terrace Room USD2,442 Single or USD1,565 shared, per person

Garden Pool Villa USD3,026 Single or USD1,857 shared, per person

Uma Pool Villa USD3,661 Single or USD2,175 shared, per person

If sharing, you must book for both people at the same time.

Inclusions

  • Daily usage of yoga studio includes set up on 1-5 December 2025 
  • Daily fruits and juice refreshment set up at Uma Bar after class 
  • Daily brunch at Kemiri Restaurant
  • Complimentary daily replenished in-room fruit basket. 
  • Complimentary WIFI access in the room and certain other areas of the hotel. 
  • Complimentary scheduled shuttle to Ubud area. (Up to Museum Puri Lukisan) 
  • Complimentary use of the steam, gym and swimming pool 
  • Rates are inclusive of 21% government tax and service charge 

Terms & Conditions

  • Extra person will be charged additional USD78net per person per night on extra bed include breakfast
  • Maximum one (1) extra person in the room. Ubud Room and Terrace Room are not suitable for an extra bed. 

There is a Children’s Policy – if this is applicable to you, please check with Wira.

Check In & Check Out

  • COMO Uma Ubud requests that guests check in after 2pm on day of arrival and check out by 11am on day of departure. 
  • Any early check in or late check out request will be an additional charges and subject to the availability to be confirmed one day prior to arrival

BOOKING STATUS 

  • First payment of 50% of the total invoice to be paid upon making the reservation 
  • Balance Payment to be paid 30 days prior to the arrival date. 
  • Other expenses will be charged upon checkout 
  • All payments should be received as per above timeline, otherwise rooms will be subject to cancelation. 

CANCELLATION POLICY 

  • Cancellations made before 60 days prior to arrival date, no cancellation will be charges.
  • Cancellations made between 60 days to 30 days prior to arrival date will be subject to 50% of the total invoice.
  • Cancellation made between 30 days to 7 days prior to arrival date will be subject to 90% of the total invoice.
  • Late arrivals, no-shows and early departures will be charged 100%.
  • Cancellation must be received in writing by the hotel or its representative. Late arrivals, no-shows and early departures will be charged accordingly.

PAYMENT 

Payment can be made via Credit Card or Wire money transfers. 
For Credit Card process, payment link will be sent. Please advise if required. The amount charged will be in Indonesian Rupiah, using the daily exchange rate on the date of process. 
For bank transfer, please use below account details: 

ACCOUNT NAME

PT VILLA BUKIT LESTARI 
Bank Name: Bank Central Asia, Ubud Branch 
Bank Address: Jalan Raya Ubud No.10, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia 

SWIFT: CENAIDJA 
Account Number: 135.0219711 (for payments in US Dollar) 
Payment via wire transfer must be settled in full amount without any bank fee deduction. 

FORCE MAJEURE 

  • Neither party shall be held liable for any failure or delay in performing its obligations under this Agreement to the extent that such failure or delay is caused by circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, war, terrorism, earthquake, fire, flood, epidemic, pandemic, labor disputes, governmental acts, and any other events that are unforeseeable and unavoidable (“Force Majeure Event”). 
  • In the event of a Force Majeure Event, the affected party shall promptly provide written notice to the other party detailing the nature of the event and the expected impact on its performance under this Agreement. 
  • During the period in which a Force Majeure Event prevents the affected party from performing its obligations, the time for performance of such obligations shall be extended for a period equal to the duration of the Force Majeure Event. 
  • If a Force Majeure Event continues for a period of 30 (thirty) days, either party shall have the right to terminate this Agreement upon written notice to the other party, without incurring any liability.

Shadow Yoga Cancellation Policy

Important Retreat Information

Accommodation

Platform Tents
Luxurious, raised tent accommodations include private outdoor showers, sinks, flushing toilets, and a large wrap-around viewing deck. Most tents have transparent panels above the beds to allow for star-gazing of the night sky. Thoughtfully placed Pendelton blankets and additional all-weather duvets are provided.

Bell Tents
Ground-level canvas bell tent sites with beds, bedding, chairs, rugs, and solar twinkle lights. Bathrooms & showers are shared. The bell tents have lighting but no power for phones or accessories.

Food & Beverage
Local, organic, vegetarian meals are provided.

A wide selection of teas and coffees are included as complimentary offerings. Meals are enjoyed at the custom-made communal table or the outdoor pavilion kitchen and lounge area. 

Suggested packing list for attendees

  • Power Charging pack for devices
  • Waterbottle
  • Sun hat
  • Yoga mat
  • Bath towel and washcloth
  • Layers for cooler temps at night
  • Earplugs for wind
  • Minimal scented lotions and cosmetics
  • Flashlight or headlamp
  • Swimsuit
  • Easy slip-on/off shoes for indoor gathering spaces
  • Good shoes for walking/hiking
  • If any attendees need to bring a C-pap machine for sleeping, please let Green Rock know in advance so they can be placed in the correct accommodations

Important Retreat Information

Included in your fee
  • Accommodation for the specified nights. We will do our best to provide your choice of accommodation
  • Three vegetarian meals a day
Airport taxi pickup and drop are available.
Approx US$30-$50 depending on how many travelling.
When you know your flight details, please advise directly to Veronica referencing ‘Shadow Yoga 21–28 June’
 
We regret that the Teacher’s Discount is not available for the retreats.

Meditations of the Thunder Dragon (Taranyali Dhyanam)

with Sundernath

Over the past twenty years, we have introduced and taught all the preparatory practices required to cultivate the subtle energy and initiate the gathering of vital power that leads to the spontaneous or natural state of Sahajavasta which is the highest peak of meditation.

These practices and technical tools were laid out in Sundernath’s book Taranyali Tridha Dhyanam in the chapters on Krantam and Kriya. In the last chapter, he introduces the principles and characteristics of the final phase to which they lead – the acquisition of Shambhavi Mudra. These properties can be summed up in the term prasādājñā which implies that this mudra has a double nature – Rudra Shakti, the command of authority for the removal of impurities and Kundalini Shakti, the command of grace. When these two energies are drawn together into a single point the portal of transmission is opened. In this explanation I gave enough for genuine seekers to gain some sense of the path ahead and the demands that it would make.

The time has come to teach those individuals who are suitably prepared and open, by practical steps and in a systematic manner, the complete process through to this final stage.

This will be undertaken in four stages as follows:

  1. The Sheathing of Thunder and Lightning
  2. Stabilising the Thunder and Lightning
  3. Opening the Sky and Flooding
  4. The Arousal of Hamsah – the Anahata Nad, (the unstruck sound of the heart).
    Shambhavi Mudra

Each stage will consist of three-weekend workshops, each weekend consisting of three sessions. Between these stages, the students will be given suitable time to practice and absorb what they have learned before proceeding further.

Copyright © Shadow Yoga. All rights reserved. No part of these teachings may be reproduced, distributed, recorded or transmitted in any form or by any means, including, recording, or other electronic or mechanical means, without the prior written permission of Shadow Yoga. All advice given is strictly in confidence.

Vitry-lès-Cluny

About the region

Tourism center information

Close by: Remember to call ahead for visit conditions

Roche de Solutré: Not to miss, on the Great Site of France Solutré Pouilly Vergisson

Musée de préhistoire: Jardin archeological and botanical garden, the Maison du Grand Site to complete the tour.

Château De Pierreclos: In the midst of organic vineyards.

Chateau De Berze-Le-Chatel: Historical monument, one of the most well-preserved medieval fortified castles of Burgundy (where Ridley Scott shot ‘The Last Duel’!)

Chapelle Des Moines: In Berzé-la-Ville (the next village!)  – not to be missed.

Château De Cormatin: (only possible to visit its magnificent garden) Between Tournus et Cluny.

Les Communs: Local ceramists.

Chapaize – L’église Saint Martin & L’église De Lancharre: The village offers bed and breakfasts, 3 restaurants a Sunday organic market, an art gallery, and artists’ ateliers.

Grottes D’azé: Earth under life: in -350 000, a primal man appeared in the cave, then rhinos and antique elephants…the prehistorical cave and the underground river hide one of the largest European cave bears fields.

Grottes De Blanot

Château De Saint-Point-Lamartine: If one appreciates the writer

Solornay sur Guye: The neighbouring town – includes a restaurant, small food store, salon de thé – pâtisserie 

Cité- Abbaye De Cluny: The Benedictin Abbaye Of Cluny Shined On The Whole Middle Age Europe, Being The Widest Of Western Christianity Before The Building Of Saint-Peters In Rome.

Communauté De Taizé: Christian Ecumenical Community Founded In 1940 By Brother Roger.

Abbaye Saint Philibert – Tournus: One Of The Largest French Monastic Cities.

Important Information

Inclusions

  • Accommodation for the specified nights. We will do our best to provide your choice of accommodation
  • Vegetarian meals catered by local chef with local produce.

If you are flying to Auckland, when your flights are confirmed, please pass the info to Jaymin Gansell who will co-ordinate transport to the retreat on the Tuesday. This will be an additional shared cost. If you are already in Auckland you are welcome to contact her too.

Discounts

  • 5% For EarlyBird booking and full payment received before 15 July will be applied at checkout.
  • We regret that Teacher’s Discount is not available for this retreat.

Cancellation Policy

  • After 15 August: Cancellation fee of 20%
  • After 15 September: Cancellation fee of 40%
  • After 15 October: Cancellation fee of 100%
  • We will do our best to replace your booking in which case the fee will be halved.

Limited to 20 participants. We expect places to fill quickly.

Important Retreat Information

Included in your fee

  • Accommodation for the specified nights. We will do our best to provide your choice of accommodation
  • A consultation with the Vaidya (Ayurvedic doctor)
  • Treatments as specified
  • Three vegetarian meals a day with two beverages (ideally herbal tea if not, tea/coffee) and fruit bowl
  • One group session on Diet and Ayurveda

Exclusions

Extra meals, fruits, tea, coffee & juices

Extras

  • Airport taxi pickup and drop are available (see below)
  • Additional specific treatments are available
  • Astrology Session – INR4,000

We regret that Teacher’s Discount is not available for the retreats.

Venue information

Poonthottam

Closest domestic airports (in order) are Kozhikode, Cochin, Coimbatore.
Cochin takes longer because of very heavy traffic. The asram will help organise a taxi for you – see contact details below.

Contact

For taxi bookings and information about additional treatments or extending your stay, please contact Jishnu Ravendranath
WhatsApp is prefered +918075435242

Cancellation Policy

  • After 15 September – Cancellation fee of 30%
  • After 15 October – Cancellation fee of 60%
  • After 15 November – Cancellation fee of 100%

Limited to 20 participants. We expect places to fill quickly.

Meditations of the Thunder Dragon (Taranyali Dhyanam)

with Sundernath

Over the past twenty years, we have introduced and taught all the preparatory practices required to cultivate the subtle energy and initiate the gathering of vital power that leads to the spontaneous or natural state of Sahajavasta which is the highest peak of meditation.

These practices and technical tools were laid out in Sundernath’s book Taranyali Tridha Dhyanam in the chapters on Krantam and Kriya. In the last chapter, he introduces the principles and characteristics of the final phase to which they lead – the acquisition of Shambhavi Mudra. These properties can be summed up in the term prasādājñā which implies that this mudra has a double nature – Rudra Shakti, the command of authority for the removal of impurities and Kundalini Shakti, the command of grace. When these two energies are drawn together into a single point the portal of transmission is opened. In this explanation I gave enough for genuine seekers to gain some sense of the path ahead and the demands that it would make.

The time has come to teach those individuals who are suitably prepared and open, by practical steps and in a systematic manner, the complete process through to this final stage.

This will be undertaken in four stages as follows:

  1. The Sheathing of Thunder and Lightning
  2. Stabilising the Thunder and Lightning
  3. Opening the Sky and Flooding
  4. The Arousal of Hamsah – the Anahata Nad, (the unstruck sound of the heart).
    Shambhavi Mudra

Each stage will consist of three-weekend workshops, each weekend consisting of three sessions. Between these stages, the students will be given suitable time to practice and absorb what they have learned before proceeding further.

Copyright © Shadow Yoga. All rights reserved. No part of these teachings may be reproduced, distributed, recorded or transmitted in any form or by any means, including, recording, or other electronic or mechanical means, without the prior written permission of Shadow Yoga. All advice given is strictly in confidence.

Vitry-lès-Cluny

About the region

Tourism center information

Close by: Remember to call ahead for visit conditions

Roche de Solutré: Not to miss, on the Great Site of France Solutré Pouilly Vergisson

Musée de préhistoire: Jardin archeological and botanical garden, the Maison du Grand Site to complete the tour.

Château De Pierreclos: In the midst of organic vineyards.

Chateau De Berze-Le-Chatel: Historical monument, one of the most well-preserved medieval fortified castles of Burgundy (where Ridley Scott shot ‘The Last Duel’!)

Chapelle Des Moines: In Berzé-la-Ville (the next village!)  – not to be missed.

Château De Cormatin: (only possible to visit its magnificent garden) Between Tournus et Cluny.

Les Communs: Local ceramists.

Chapaize – L’église Saint Martin & L’église De Lancharre: The village offers bed and breakfasts, 3 restaurants a Sunday organic market, an art gallery, and artists’ ateliers.

Grottes D’azé: Earth under life: in -350 000, a primal man appeared in the cave, then rhinos and antique elephants…the prehistorical cave and the underground river hide one of the largest European cave bears fields.

Grottes De Blanot

Château De Saint-Point-Lamartine: If one appreciates the writer

Solornay sur Guye: The neighbouring town – includes a restaurant, small food store, salon de thé – pâtisserie 

Cité- Abbaye De Cluny: The Benedictin Abbaye Of Cluny Shined On The Whole Middle Age Europe, Being The Widest Of Western Christianity Before The Building Of Saint-Peters In Rome.

Communauté De Taizé: Christian Ecumenical Community Founded In 1940 By Brother Roger.

Abbaye Saint Philibert – Tournus: One Of The Largest French Monastic Cities.