What is Shadow Yoga?

Shadow Yoga is a synonym for Hathayoga, that practice in which the body and breath are employed as the primary tools to investigate the self and the great unknown. Shadow Yoga encompasses a range of traditional practices including the application of Vyayama - fixed forms, or restrained drills. Also known as the Preludes, these drills comprise both linear and circular movements designed to cultivate both strength and flexibility in order to prepare the body for more the more subtle art of asana, pranayama, and eventually, meditation. Students of other forms of yoga may well be familiar with some of the movements and shapes employed in the Prelude forms.

In contrast, Nrtta, or ‘pure dance’, is far less known in the West. Nrtta originated with the Pashupata Tantrika Yogins over two thousand years ago, and gave rise to the later development of Hathayoga through the teachings of Matsyendranath, his disciple Goraknath, and other teachers in the Nath lineage. The Shadow Yoga school is founded by Sundernath (Shandor Remete), an initiate of the Goraksha Sampradaya of the Kanpatha Yogins, descendants of Matsyendranath and Goraknath. Sundernath teaches with internationally-recognised yogin and teacher, Emma Balnaves, who is the co-founder and director of Shadow Yoga.

Like other traditional forms such as martial arts and classical dance, Shadow Yoga is not taught on a casual basis, but in a course-based format. Commitment from the student is met with an individualised approach from the teacher. Classes are deliberate and sequential, allowing students to build progressively on independent application. Shadow Yoga is a truly empowering system that encourages each person to find their own 'teacher' within.

To see Shadow Yoga in action visit the official Shadow Yoga YouTube Channel.