Yoga

There are many different methods of yoga, at stillness in movement we work with the Haṭha yoga method, which encompasses body-based practices to balance the energies in order to harmonise the mind. These practices include physical poses (asana), breath work (pranayama), some Mudras & Bandhas (energetic seals) and Kriyas (cleansing techniques).

Shadow Yoga

A dynamic, energetic form of Haṭha yoga developed by Shandor Remete, an initiate of the Goraksha Sampradaya of Kanpatha Yogis, who has practiced for over 60 years.
The practice is based upon his practical understanding of ancient classical Haṭha Yoga texts, exploration of present day yoga styles and other disciplines including martial arts and Kathakali & Bharatantyam dance forms, which all have a common basis in their preparatory forms.
Preparatory forms create the environment for the unfolding of the energetic principles of yoga found in the maps of Hatha Yoga anatomy & physiology, and Indian (marmasthana) & Chinese energetic systems.
According to Hatha Yogic anatomy the body is composed of three discrete bodies and five sheaths (coverings or shadows).
The practice of Hatha Yoga has evolved with the purpose of dissolving these shadows.
The progressive forms (Preludes) of this sustainable practice bring about changes in flexibility and firmness and cultivate awareness of the rhythmic flow of life force.

This method is taught primarily in Course format, with seasonal Intro Classes and/or Workshops.
Next Intro Class/Workshop:
Saturday 30th November & Sunday 1st December
Gisborne Intro to Shadow Yoga Workshop

Beginners Course
Introduces the Warm-ups, Squats, Linear Salute variations,
Basic seats (Asana), Seated Conclusion, Finishing
Next Beginners 8 Week Course: Mid Season Course:
Sundays 11:00am-12:30pm 1st September – 20th October
Cost: $120 per 8 session course

Balakrama -Stepping into Strength
The first of the Shadow Yoga Preludes, works the feet to release deeply held tension and corrects actions of the lower body.
This dynamic ankle and leg working form builds stamina, strengthens the bone, develops the co-ordination and intuitive use of the limbs.
Through the leg work one learns how to use the downward moving energy in the body to bring grounding, stability and to move the body up & down with ease.
Next Balakrama 8 Week Course: Term Three: Wednesdays 31st July – 18th September 7-8:30pm
Term Four: Thursdays 17th October – 5th December 4-5:30pm

Chaya Yoddha Sancalanam -Churning of the Shadow Warrior
The second Shadow Yoga Prelude, brings the waist to life, breaking down restrictions in the hips and deepens the body’s understanding of how to fold forward. Co-ordination of movement, breath, use of bandhas are refined and energy within the body is ‘stirred’, or moved, through the energetic channels.
Includes Uttanasana Variations (Standing Forward Bend)
Next Chaya Yoddha Sancalanam 8 Week Course: Term Three: Thursdays 1st August – September 4-5:30pm
Term Four: Wednesdays 16th October – 4th December 7-8:30pm

KARTTIKEYA MANDALAM -Garland of Light
The third Shadow Yoga Prelude moves in a circular, spiralling flow with deep waist work, releasing restrictions in the upper back, chest and shoulders. Breath continues to be developed, internal energy is refined and directed, and the preparation is set up for asana work.
Includes Parsarita (Standing Wide Leg Forward Bend) and Trikonasana (Triangle Pose) Variations.
Next 8 Week Course:
Term Three: DEVELOPING KARTTIKEYA MANDALAM Saturdays 3rd August – 21st September 2:15-4:00pm
Note: Attendance at previous courses with me on first two preludes (Balakrama & Chaya Yoddha Sancalanam) and Intro to Karttikeya Mandalam or similar experience required to attend this course.

GENERAL COURSE -A rotating cycle of the 3 Preludes, focusing on a different one each week.
Next General Course:

Ashtanga Yoga
as taught by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois of Mysore, India

Pattabhi Jois (1915-2009) was a student of Krishnamacharya, his grandson Sharath and daughter Saraswati continue to teach in Mysore today.
In this method there is a set series of asana (physical poses) which are linked together dynamically with the breath (vinyasa).
Primary Series (Yoga Chikitsa -Yoga Therapy)
Detoxes the body, mind & senses. Realigns the body structurally with focus on forward bending.
Intermediate Series (Nadi Shodana -Nerve Cleansing)
Purifies the nervous system by opening and clearing the energy channels, with focus on back bending.
Several weekly Ashtanga Classes are available, click here.

Vinyasa Krama Yoga

Developed by Matthew Sweeney, a student of Pattabhi Jois.
These vinyasa sequences provide an alternative or complementary option to the Ashtanga series, to balance & inspire.
Chandra/Moon Sequence
A slow flowing sequence, in particular focusing on opening up and releasing tension in the hips and lower back.
Simha/Lion Sequence
A playful & uplifting intermediate level sequence, with the focus on opening & strengthen the upper back and shoulders.
Taught in Guided Self Practice Classes offered a few times a week, and in a monthly Led Moon Class