The application of Shadow Yoga is the perfect introduction to the study of yoga. Practice of the forms of Shadow Yoga are designed to release obstructions, tensions, and habits in the individual while cultivating strength and mindfulness.
Shadow Yoga is Hatha Yoga where the restrictions in the physical body are seen as layers of frozen shadows. Through the practice of a series of sequences, as developed by Zhander Remete, the body is freed of these restrictions which in turn releases the mind from its conditioning. Progress through these forms brings about changes in flexibility and firmness,cultivates smooth breathing as well as awareness of the rhythmic flow of the inner motions of the life force. This prepares the student for the eventual application of “freestyle” where their Hatha Yoga practice is guided by intuitive responses.
The fixed forms of Shadow Yoga utilize 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 flow of the breath.
"By controlling the downward action of inspiration (apana) and the upward action of expiration (prana) the practitioner simultaneously quiets and balances the three humours, purifies the channels of the subtle body, controls the movement of vital energy throughout the physical and subtle bodies, and develops control of his mind in single - point concentration" Zarilli, P. (1998) pp132-133.