TheLoneRider
a seeker in search of Easter Eggs
Manipuraka (Navel Chakra)

YOGA Chakras

 Understanding Yogic Chakras

Muladhara Chakra
Muladhara
LAM
Svadhisthana Chakra
Svadhisthana
VAM
Manipuraka Chakra
Manipuraka
RAM
Surya Chakra
Surya
Manas Chakra
Manas
Anahata Chakra
Anahata
YAM
Visuddhi Chakra
Visuddhi
HAM
Lalana Chakra
Lalana
Bindu Chakra
Bindu
SHIVOHAM
Ajna Chakra
Ajna
OM
Brahmaguha Chakra
Brahmaguha
Sahasrara Chakra
Sahasrara
OM


Manipuraka (Navel Chakra) July 12, 2020

Manipuraka (Navel Chakra)

Mantra: RAM
Asana: Chakrasana
Form: lotus flower with ten petals bearing Sanskrit letters
Element: fire
Statement: "I have a strong body and a strong mind. I don't get sick and I am determined. I am a doer. I make things happen. But is this all there is to life?"
Blocked by: shame (what are you shameful of? what in your past causes feelings of shame? Accept as fact of life and move on)
Pranayama: kapalabhati
Mudra: thumb tip by the base of the little finger, then close the fist

Assertion and Dominance
Manipuraka Chakra is the center of self-assertion. One attempts to dominate situations and other people. One seeks to manipulate the world according to personal wishes. This is expressed in the predominant motive of gaining wealth, respect, etc. This is the chakra level where people become very active and extroverted. They involve themselves with many external activities whether in work or play. Many people in the world are functioning at this level. They try to impose their will on other people and the world around them. It is the center where all things and other people are seen as a means of providing personal power and satisfying worldly ambitions. The Manipuraka Chakra is the center of dynamism and energy. People at this level are predominantly rajasic (active and intense) in nature; the lower chakras, Muladhara and Svadhisthana, are predominantly tamasic (lethargic and negative) in nature. At the level of the Manipuraka Chakra people seriously begin to question their attitude towards life and their place in the scheme of existence. This is in accordance with the Buddhist concept that the kundalini resides in manipura. Until the level of manipura, people are not knowingly on the path to expansion of the mind.

Manipuraka (Navel Chakra)
Manipuraka Chakra at the navel

Blazing Fire
The word Manipuraka Chakra can be translated directly as 'the city of gems' because of the intensity of the pranic energy like the dazzling power of the sun. It radiates and distributes pranic energy throughout the entire human framework; without this chakra, each person would be lifeless and totally devoid of vitality. It is also compared to a blazing fire, since it burns up and assimilates the energy in food in the same way that fire burns up wood and releases the inherent energy. The absorption of energy in the human structure takes place at different levels - at grosser levels by absorbing the nutrients of food for the upkeep of the physical body and at a more subtle level by absorbing the more subtle essence of food to refuel the pranic body. The Manipuraka Chakra is intimately related to this entire process at all levels.

Navel as the 2nd Brain
Follow your GUT feel. According to Dr. Hansaji of The Yoga Institute, in the womb, our navel was our connection to life. But now as an individual, our navel continues to be our universe - thus the name solar plexus. Navel is a vital point in accupuncture and accupressure. Meditating on the navel (manipuraka chakra) gives us complete knowledge of our body and reveals its mysteries. In sickness, we can diagnose our bodies by meditating on the manipuraka. Activating this chakra cleanses the nadis and allow prana to flow freely throughout the body, eliminating disease and sickness in the process.

How to Activate the Manipuraka Chakra

  1. mandukasana - compression on the navel using fist. Sit on vajrasana (heels and knees together as you sit on your heels), hands closed with thumb touching the base of the little finger, fists lightly touching each other by the navel with fingers pressed against the navel. Inhale, lifting the chest up and pulling the shoulders back. On the exhale, bend forward with head touching the floor and creating a compression on the navel with your 2 fists. Hold the breath on empty lungs (antara kumbhaka) and keep the pressure while staying relaxed. Lift up on the inhale and repeat the breathing 6 times or more. This cleanses the nadis and cause prana to flow freely.
  2. nabhi chikitsa - applying oil on the navel. You can use warm coconut oil and put about 1 tbsp on the navel. Let it stay there for a while and then start massaging clockwise with a little pressure. This cures many diseases.
  3. kapalabhati - seated in Vajrasana (heals/knees together and you are seated on your heals), forceful exhalation using abdominal contraction. Put the palms on the navel while doing this. 108 repetitions would be ideal. On the last exhalation, empty the lungs, hold the breath, do the hand mudra (tips of thumbs by the base of the little finger, close hand into a fist, get the knuckles lightly touching each other, closed palms pressed against the belly 2.5 inches below the navel), tuck the belly into uddiyana bandha, and let the torso come down into your lap. When settled, release the belly so it relaxes onto your hand mudra. Hold the breath while chanting "ram" silently. This generates heat, draws energy from the cosmos, giving you vitality.

Know your Navel (the 2nd brain) by Dr. Hansaji of The Yoga Institute


Physical and Mental Virility
If consciousness (caitanya) is attained at the Manipuraka Chakra due to the strength of breath regulation (pranayama), then the practitioner will never encounter any physical or mental afflictions. These afflictions will flee his presence. One who has acquired caitanya in this chakra will be able to face any disaster or accident with mental fortitude. Not only that, he develops divine perception (divya drishti). He will experience the bliss of identifying universal self (atman) as a separate entity from the body. The main function of this chakra is to ensure that all organs or parts of the body function at their proper strength.

Uddiyana Bandha moving Prana from the Manipuraka Chakra
Uddiyana bandha also has many subtle influences on the pranic body. The navel is the area of the Manipuraka Chakra, which is the center of prana in the body. Physical stimulation of this area (thru Uddiyana Bandha) has repercussions on the more subtle flows of prana and its distribution throughout the body. Uddiyana also redirects prana into the sushumna nadi. This helps to expand awareness and induces meditation.

Tantra vs Buddhism on Kundalini
In Buddhism, Manipuraka Chakra is regarded as the seat of the kundalini and not the Muladhara Chakra. It regards the lower chakras (Muladhara and Svadisthana) as simply instinctive levels of man. It asserts that the expansion of awareness begins at the Manipuraka. The Manipuraka Chakra is indeed the center of prana that permeates and controls the body from behind the scenes. It is the center that puts man directly in contact with the subtle forces of the cosmos, and thus the seat of the Kundalini shakti.

Tantra yoga, however, regards expansion of awareness, as starting at the level of the Muladhara Chakra, for it is here that man begins to become aware of himself, even if in a very rudimentary form. The Muladhara Chakra is also a vital trigger center that is very much concerned with directing pranic forces from the base of the spine upwards through sushumna to the higher centers. It is often associated with transmutation of sexual energy into more subtle pranic energy (ojas). Both of these chakras are centers of pranic energy but in a slightly different sense. Thus kundalini resides here.

Manipura Kshetram and Exercise

Manipura kshetram
In kriya yoga practices, the area of the body directly in front of the Manipuraka Chakra area on the front surface of the body is also used as a point of awareness. This is called the Manipura kshetram and is exactly located at the navel. You should develop the ability to locate this region. Most people should find it quite easy to feel and locate the Manipuraka Chakra kshetram with the eyes closed.

Location
Two excellent methods of locating the Manipuraka Chakra trigger point and the Manipuraka Chakra kshetram are called Uddiyana Bandha and Manipuraka Chakra shuddhi (purification). These are practiced as follows:

Stage 1: Uddiyana Bandha
Sit in a comfortable position, preferably one of the traditional meditative asanas, with the knees flat on the ground. Perform uddiyana bandha. Be aware of the navel. Practise several rounds for about 5 minutes. Then stop uddiyana bandha. Fix your attention on the blood pulse at the navel. You should distinctly feel it. After a few minutes, transfer your attention to the Manipuraka Chakra trigger point in the spine. If necessary you can physically locate this region with your finger. Try to feel the blood pulse at this point. Continue in this manner for a few minutes. Then if you have time, again do a few more rounds of uddiyana bandha. Then again be attentive to the blood pulse at the Manipuraka Chakra kshetram and chakra for a few minutes each. Repeat the entire process again if you have time. Then proceed to stage 2.

Stage 2: Manipura Shuddhi (purification)
Take a comfortable sitting position. Hold the back straight. Keep the eyes closed. Breathe slowly and deeply. Feel the contraction and expansion of the navel as you breathe in and out. Feel as though you are breathing in and out at the navel. Fix your whole attention at the navel. Feel that the breath is being drawn from the Manipuraka Chakra trigger point in the spine through the navel and outwards as the abdomen expands during inhalation. Feel that the breath is being pushed inwards through the navel to the Manipuraka Chakra in the spine as the abdomen contracts with exhalation. Be attentive to this rhythmical process. Continue in this manner for at least 10 minutes. Then combine the mantra Aum with the inhalation and exhalation of breath. You should still continue to feel the movement of breath inwards and outwards, but it must be now synchronized with Aum. Feel the breath and mantra piercing the navel and the Manipuraka Chakra in the spine. At the end of exhalation, feel the Manipuraka Chakra kshetram being pierced, and feel the breath being pulled upwards from the Manipuraka Chakra kshetram during inhalation. Continue in this manner for as long as you have time available. Be attentive.

--- Gigit (TheLoneRider)
YOGA by Gigit Yoga by Gigit | Learn English Learn English | Travel like a Nomad Nomad Travel Buddy | Donation Bank Donation Bank for TheLoneRider


Manipuraka Tuning and Balancing at 432hz by Taos Winds Spirit Music


Reader Comments:

Grant LawlessGrant Australia
(Aug 6, 2020) Every day I ask, "Is this it?". So far, I was woken up the next day so the answer has been satisfactory 🙂

TheLoneRiderTheLoneRider
(Aug 6, 2020) maybe one day, the answer is different 🙂

GrantGrant
(Aug 6, 2020) Aaah yes hope that day is long into the future but when it comes of course I have no say.

Leave a comment?

Next Chakra:

Surya (sun chakra) yoga chakra

Surya (sun chakra)

(Aug 30, 2020) Surya Chakra absorbs energy from the sun, heats up the body, and clears all energy channels in the stomach for increased digestive metabolism. Intestinal diseases cannot take place when this chakra is activated. The Sankalpa aspect of this chakra manifests your desires....more »»

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Chiang Mai INFORMATION

Chiang Mai Map
Google Map

Chiang Mai, Thailand

important places in Chiang Mai IMPORTANT PLACES
Chiang Mai Bus Station Bus Station
Chiang Mai Train Station Train Station
Chiang Mai airport Chiang Mai International Airport
Nong Buak Hard Park Nong Buak Hard Park - free yoga classes daily

hotels in Chiang Mai HOTEL
Chiang Mai Arun Dara Villa Arun Dara Villa - 7 exclusive rooms, 1 swimming pool for every room, grand opening
Chiang Mai Nawa Sheeva Hotel Nawa Sheeva Hotel - big rooms, high ceiling, salt-water pool, restaurant, cafe
Chiang Mai Nawa Saraan Hotel Nawa Saraan Hotel - low density (4 spacious rooms), stone garden setting, Koi fish pond, Old City location
Arun Suite, Chiang Mai Arun Suite - 3 bedrooms in a 3-storie guesthouse within Old City, ideal for families

birds nest restaurants in Chiang Mai RESTAURANT
La Pizza Chiang Mai La Pizza Chiang Mai - Italian pizza, pasta, wine, dessert, coffee
Chiang Mai birds nest restaurant Natural Bird Nest by Burapa - authentic bird's nest soup

Thai massage in Chiang Mai WELLNESS
ITM – International Training Massage School ITM - International Training Massage School - Chiang Mai's most prestigious massage school
Float Chiang Mai Float Chiang Mai - sensory deprivation float pod
Chiang Mai, Royal Thai Lanna Massage Zira Spa - upscale authentic Thai massage and spa treatment

motorcycle rental in Chiang Mai MOTORBIKE RENTAL
Chiang Mai birds nest motorcycle Tawan Bike - motorcycle rental | +66 91 635 2863 | Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200



Chiang Mai FYI / Tips
  • crop-burning season in Chiang Mai is between late Feb to early April. But laws change everytime. This year, 2019, there is a 61-day ban on burning so the farmers started burning early. When my plane was approaching Chiang Mai on Jan 24, 2019, there was already a thick blanket of smog covering the entire city (and beyond). But within the city itself, you won't feel it (but that doesn't mean the air is healthy). To monitor air conditions in real time, refer to site: Chiang Mai Air Pollution: Real-time Air Quality Index (AQI)
  • hot season begins March and lasts until June
  • wet season begins July and lasts until September
  • best time to visit Chiang Mai is mid-September to mid-February - after the monsoon and before the burning
  • you have to try Khao Soi, this is north Thailand's culinary staple
  • the tourist area where most of the hotels, restaurants, ticket offices, tour operators are, is located in the Old City
  • to exchange your dollars to Thai Baht, the Super Rich Money Exchange give the best rates. There are many branches scattered around Chiang Mai
  • get a red cab (songthao) outside the train station for Baht 50 (instead of paying B100 if inside the train station) to Old City - if you haggle nicely enough...I did!
  • shared red taxi (songthao) - B30 standard fare plying all over Old City
  • for only B50/day, best to rent a bike to go around the Old City - it's a 2.5km2 with lots to discover
  • FREE daily yoga classes from 9:00am to 10:15am at Nong Buak Hard Park (southwest corner of Old City). Resident and passing-through teachers take turns conducting yoga classes.
Blues/Jazz Bars in Chiang Mai
  1. North Gate Jazz Coop - at Chang Phueg Gate, great Tuesday jam session, Blues on Sundays at 11pm by the Chiang Mai Blues band
  2. Boy Blues Bar - at the Night Bazaar. Mondays at 9:30pm is open mic
  3. My Secret Cafe - near Wat Phra Singh. Tuesdays at 7:30pm for the changing front-act and 9:00pm for the Panic Band
  4. Taphae East - 88 Thapae Rd. (just north of Night Bazaar). Fridays at 9:30pm by Chiang Mai Blues Band
Chiang Mai Cost Index
  • B60 Chiang beer
  • B250 1 hour drop-in yoga session
  • B200 one hour Thai body massage at WAYA Massage (highly recommended)
  • B50 noodle soup with meat
  • B50 coffee
  • B40 pad thai
  • B30/kilo wash-only laundry
  • B50/kilo wash+iron laundry
  • B100-150 dorm bed/night
  • B250 fan room/night
  • B30 internet cafe/hour
  • B170-190 Movies Sat-Sun and public holidays
  • B130-150 Movies weekdays
  • B100 Movies Wednesdays (movie discount day)
  • B750 1/2 day Thai cooking lessons
  • B900-1000 1 full day Thai cooking lessons
  • B400 Muay Thai boxing ticket
  • B2500 starting room rate at the luxury hotel, Nawa Sheeva (highly recommended)

    • Transportation
  • B450 bus, Chiang Mai to Bangkok
  • B160-180 bus, Chiang Mai to Pai
  • B1250 bus, Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang
  • B1650 slow boat, Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang
  • B210 bus, Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, 3-4 hours
  • B360 Green VIP bus, Chiang Mai to Mae Sai (Thai border town for visa run to Tachileik, Myanmar)
  • B50 bicycle rental, 24 hours
  • B200 motorbike rental, 24 hours
  • B273 #51 sleeping train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
  • B638 #7 a/c train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
  • B50 red taxi fare from point to point
  • B100 red taxi fare from train terminal to city

    • Tours
  • B2000 full day elephant sanctuary
  • B750 Chiang Rai one-day tour
  • B1500 mountain biking scenic ride
Chiang Mai Trains by Train36.com
  1. Chiang Mai trains for Bangkok - 2 day trains, 3 night trains, daily schedule
  2. Train 14 to Bangkok - departs 5pm daily, arrives BKK 6:15am, 1st class and 2nd class sleeping accomodation, Special Express
  3. Chiang Mai trains to other destinations -
Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train from Bang Sue Train Station

For more train info: Bangkok to Chiang Mai trains - departing from Hua Lamphong - MRT (Bangkok)

(I'm using Bang Sue as a starting point because I was closer to it, but you may be closer to the Hua Lamphong station)

  1. take the MRT train to Bang Sue Station. Take the #1 Exit to the north provincial trains
  2. Proceed to Counter 2. You will see an information booth, a train schedule chart and the ticket counter. Choose the train and pay at the ticket counter.
  3. daily train schedule:
    • 8:48am - #7 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 7:30pm, not sleeper, B638
    • 2:06pm - #109 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 4:05am, sleeper
    • 6:31pm - #9 Premium Train, arrive Chiang Mai 7:15am, sleeper, B938 upper deck, B1038 lower deck
    • 7:56pm - #13 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 8:40am, sleeper, B768 upper deck, B838 lower deck
    • 10:22pm - #51 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 12:10pm, sleeper, 3rd class B270 (non sleeper), 2nd class B438, B728 upper deck, B798 lower deck
Loei to Chiang Mai by Bus
  1. From Loei town center, take a tuk-tuk ride to the bus station, B30. There is only one bus station.
  2. As of June 28, 2020 (still on Covid schedule), there are only 3 night trips: 8:30pm, 9:30pm and 12 midnight. 9 hours, B470.
  3. The bus makes the following stops at the following times from a 9pm Loei departure: Phu Ruea (9:50pm), Phitsanulok (12:40am), Uttradit (2:20am), Lampang (4:35am)
  4. Final bus stop is at the Red Bus Arcade, Chiang Mai, 9 hour-trip, arriving 6am (from 9pm Loei departure).
  5. Take a red songthaew to Old City, B50. They'll try to charge you B100, but they'll take B50 (just assure the driver you won't tell the other passengers).
Chiangmai Blogs by TheLoneRider
  1. 2021: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2021
  2. Chiang Mai Peoplescape (Nov-Dec 2021) Dec 31, 2021
  3. Watering the Plants Hands-Free Dec 12, 2021
  4. Vietnamese Phin Coffee Filter Dec 2, 2021
  5. Tummo Yoga Dec 1, 2021
  6. The Bliss of Inner Fire: Book Summary/Review Dec 1, 2021
  7. The Bliss of Inner Fire: Heart Practice of the Six Yogas of Naropa Dec 1, 2021
  8. 'Must Experience' Cafés of Chiang Mai Nov 30, 2021
  9. British Hobnob Cookies Nov 22, 2021
  10. New York Cheese Cake Nov 22, 2021
  11. Pizza Nite with Simona and Nat Nov 11, 2021
  12. Stepping Forward / Reaching Out Oct 31, 2021
  13. Cancel Culture Attack Oct 31, 2021
  14. Mantra Primer Oct 29, 2021
  15. Spinal Mobility Oct 7, 2021
  16. Swedish Cinnamon Rolls [Kanelbullar] Oct 4, 2021
  17. Just Bring 2 Chinese Oct 3, 2021
  18. One-Leg Yoga Asana Sequences Sep 30, 2021
  19. Pizza Nite with Nut, Monika and Yuki Sep 27, 2021
  20. 23-Minute Ice Bath Sep 27, 2021
  21. Pizza Nite with Nut, Simona and Malee Sep 23, 2021
  22. Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep) Sep 23, 2021
  23. Making Cornbread Sep 15, 2021
  24. Kombucha: 2nd Batch Sep 11, 2021
  25. Making German Stollen Bread Sep 9, 2021
  26. Pizza Nite with Jackson, Goi and Paapu Sep 6, 2021
  27. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug 31, 2021
  28. Making Homemade Kombucha Aug 30, 2021
  29. Wrong Question to Ask This Crowd Aug 29, 2021
  30. Pizza Nite with Tom, Chunyah and Goi Aug 20, 2021
  31. Pizza Nite with Moms and Kids Aug 15, 2021
  32. Bahya Kumbhaka (breath-hold on the exhale) Aug 14, 2021
  33. Everybody's Only Friend Aug 13, 2021
  34. Vanillekipferl (German Vanilla Crescent Cookies) Aug 11, 2021
  35. Fighting Infection through Yoga Aug 3, 2021
  36. Too Close for Friendship Aug 2, 2021
  37. Manifesting: Epicurus' Pursuit Jul 31, 2021
  38. Homemade Rum Raisin Ice Cream Jul 30, 2021
  39. Ice Bath at Nawa Saraan Healing Space Jul 25, 2021
  40. Pizza Nite + Slack Line + Hammock Jul 23, 2021
  41. Yin-Yoga & Hypnosis with Christine Thiel Jul 20, 2021
  42. Pizza Nite with James and Nat Jul 19, 2021
  43. Antara Kumbhaka on Nadi Shodan Pranayama: Yogic Breath-Hold on the Inhale Jul 17, 2021
  44. Moving and Cashing-Out Bitcoin Jun 2 - Jul 11, 2021
  45. Hatha Yoga: Controlling the Switch Jul 7, 2021
  46. Yoga Classes with Calum Mar 27 - Jul 4, 2021
  47. Hike to Wat Pa Thammachat Waterfall Jul 2, 2021
  48. Pizza Brunch with the Yogis July 1, 2021
  49. Continuing Friendships in Chiang Mai Jun 30, 2021
  50. On the Brink of Hunger, the ENABLERS Come to Light Jun 21, 2021
  51. Hatha Vinyasa Yoga with Katharine Day Jun 17, 2021
  52. Pranayama Basics II Jun 16, 2021
  53. 36-Hour Love Life Jun 11, 2021
  54. Pranayama Basics I Jun 9, 2021
  55. Biohackers Meetup in Chiang Mai Jun 6, 2021
  56. Learning How to Breathe Jun 2, 2021
  57. Not the Usual Day-to-Day Life May 31, 2021
  58. Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021
  59. Breathwork & Ice Bath with Jason Ryer of Zen Strength May 23, 2021
  60. It's Raining Bell Peppers May 7, 2021
  61. Yoga Classes with Nana Apr 20, 2021
  62. You Want to be Wonder Woman? Apr 8, 2021
  63. Kunjal Kriya / Vamana Dhauti (induced vomiting) Apr 1, 2021
  64. Coffeemates, Breadmates and Yogamates in Chiang Mai Jan-Mar 2021
  65. Varisara Dhauti (cleansing of the entire digestive tract) Mar 26, 2021
  66. Spiritual Backpacker Interview by Napasorn 'Cherry' Suvarnapradip Mar 23, 2021
  67. Private One-on-One Yoga Classes with Doriana Feb 17 - Mar 14, 2021
  68. Transformational Life Events Mar 13, 2021
  69. Guess Who's Coming to Bread Day? Mar 1, 2021
  70. Mula Shodhana (anal cleansing) Feb 27, 2021
  71. Are You My Queen? Feb 25, 2021
  72. Breaking the 5-Minute Breath-hold Barrier Feb 25, 2021
  73. Kirtan with Chiang Mai's Khun Thai Seekers Feb 7, 2021
  74. Breaking the 4-minute Breath-hold Feb 7, 2021
  75. Pranayama Primer Feb 2, 2021
  76. Heartbreak in every Song Jan 24, 2021
  77. The Silent Killer is Baaack! Jan 12, 2021
  78. Learning the Thai Language Jan 9, 2021
  79. 2020: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2020
  80. Reversing/Slowing Down the Aging Process Dec 30, 2020
  81. Hike to Huay Keaw Waterfall Dec 20, 2020
  82. Yoga Mat Dec 19, 2020
  83. Hiking to Wat Pha Lat along the Monk's Trail Dec 19, 2020
  84. Are You Psycho? Dec 9, 2020
  85. Muffin Man Dec 8, 2020
  86. Polyamory Dec 4, 2020
  87. The Wim Hof Ice Bath Dec 3, 2020
  88. RSVP Nov 25, 2020
  89. High Intensity Interval Yoga (Yoga + HIIT) Nov 14, 2020
  90. Cleansing the Nadis (Energy Pathway) Nov 13, 2020
  91. Yoga for a 360-degree Core Nov 6, 2020
  92. Edward Witten: 'the smartest living physicist' Nov 4, 2020
  93. Srinivasa Ramanujan: Mathematician of the Divine Oct 27, 2020
  94. Bashar as Channeled by Darryl Anka Oct 26, 2020
  95. Vinyasa Krama and Ashtanga Yoga with Aida Yoga Oct 18, 2020
  96. Deepak Chopra: author, lecturer, healer Oct 12, 2020
  97. Facebook Friends Oct 1, 2020
  98. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug-Sep 2020 Sep 30, 2020
  99. Siddhis (yogic super powers) Sep 30, 2020
  100. Learning the Import/Export Trade Sep 4, 2020
  101. Music and Magic at Justin's Birthday Bash Sep 3, 2020
  102. Biggest Stone in his Shoe Sep 1, 2020
  103. Abandoned Aug 25, 2020
  104. Intelligent Romantic Break-up Aug 25, 2020
  105. Dad-Zoned Aug 18, 2020
  106. Public Display of Affection Aug 9, 2020
  107. Gabriella's Birthday Bash at Mothership Resort Aug 8-9, 2020
  108. Shifting Peoplescape of Chiang Mai July 31, 2020
  109. Yoga Class for Strength and Muscle Jul 30, 2020
  110. Yoga Class for Optimum Digestion July 29, 2020
  111. Yoga Class for Healthy Eyes Jul 27, 2020
  112. Hippie Night at Nawa Saraan Healing Space July 24, 2020
  113. The Podcast Series: Alan "Heart Math" Strydom Jul 17, 2020
  114. Prana Vayu Adhitthana Yoga Class July 11-12, 2020
  115. Coming Back to Chiang Mai Jun 29, 2020
  116. Goodbye Chiang Mai Jan 23, 2020
  117. Prasnopanishad: Understanding Prana Jan 17, 2020
  118. Hiking the Monk's Trail Jan 15, 2020
  119. Chaturanga Jan 10, 2020
  120. You Spooned Me Jan 3, 2020
  121. 2019: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2019
  122. Friends, Coffeemates and Breadmates (Dec 2019) Dec 31, 2019
  123. Visiting Mae Sot Dec 27-30, 2019
  124. Let's Make it About You - an Epiphany Dec 17, 2019
  125. Shut-Up! Dec 7, 2019
  126. Roasted Red Bell Pepper Puree Dec 3, 2019
  127. Coffeemates and Breadmates (Nov 2019) Nov 30, 2019
  128. Bhujangini Mudra Nov 25, 2019
  129. Mathangini Mudra Nov 24, 2019
  130. Kaka Mudra Nov 23, 2019
  131. Pasini Mudra Nov 20, 2019
  132. Aswini Mudra Nov 18, 2019
  133. Sambhavi Mudra Nov 16, 2019
  134. Manduka Mudra Nov 15, 2019
  135. Tataka Mudra Nov 14, 2019
  136. Sakti Calana Mudra Nov 10, 2019
  137. Vajroli Mudra Nov 9, 2019
  138. Coffeemates and Breadmates (Oct 2019) Oct to Nov 5, 2019
  139. Yoni Mudra Nov 1, 2019
  140. Viparita Karani Mudra Oct 31, 2019
  141. Khecari Mudra Oct 30, 2019
  142. Mahadeva Mudra Oct 28, 2019
  143. Sacred Cacao - Chakra Dance Journey Oct 26, 2019
  144. Partner Healing with Natascha Oct 24, 2019
  145. Maha Bandha Mudra Oct 24, 2019
  146. Point-Of-Failure Birthday Workout Oct 22, 2019
  147. Mula Bandha Mudra Oct 21, 2019
  148. Hugfest at Thapae Gate, Chiang Mai Oct 19, 2019
  149. Anushasan Mudra Oct 18, 2019
  150. Ling Mudra Oct 17, 2019
  151. Jalandhara Bandha Mudra Oct 15, 2019
  152. Learning Thai with Cee Oct 13, 2019
  153. Uddiyana Bandha Mudra Oct 10, 2019
  154. Nabho Mudra Oct 9, 2019
  155. Maha Mudra Oct 7, 2019
  156. 20 Essential Mudras by T. Krishnamacharya Oct. 6, 2019
  157. Mindfulness Gong Bath by Vee (Veerayuth Pongsiri) Oct 3, 2019
  158. Cuddle Party by Abundant Love CM Oct 1, 2019
  159. Vayu Mudra Oct 1, 2019
  160. Visa-Run to Tachileik, Myanmar Sep 28, 2019
  161. Sankalpa Mudra Sep 27, 2019
  162. Surya Pradarshini Mudra Sep 26, 2019
  163. Eye-Gazing at Heart Space Sep 20, 2019
  164. Prana Vayu (Pranic Wind) Sep 20, 2019
  165. 2-Week Yoga Challenge by Agnese Erba Sep 17, 2019
  166. The Mudra Project Sep 13, 2019
  167. Sunday Vinyasa Flow with Marina Forster Sep 8, 2019
  168. Shamanic Breathwork by Rachel Constantino Sep 4, 2019
  169. The Conscious Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Aug 31, 2019
  170. Of Winos and Yogis Aug 26, 2019
  171. The 9 Jhanas of Buddha Aug 22, 2019
  172. Full Moon Ceremony at Heart Space Aug 15, 2019
  173. Yin Yoga - Water Element by Martina Barabas Aug 15, 2019
  174. Hatha Mix Yoga with Christin Aug 13, 2019
  175. Boy Blues Bar Rocks Chiang Mai Aug 5, 2019
  176. Back to my Beloved Chiang Mai Aug 1, 2019
  177. Kaleidoscope of Chiang Mai's Peoplescape July 27, 2019
  178. Secret Sunrise: Nelson Mandela International Day July 17, 2019
  179. Farewell Picnic with Alan and Nicola July 15, 2019
  180. Secret Sunrise: Water July 3, 2019
  181. Hotel Review: Arun Suite June 27, 2019
  182. Bruce Lipton: Epigentics to Transcend Genes June 24, 2019
  183. Optimizing Life thru Heart Math May 8, 15 and 22, 2019
  184. Connective Cacao and Sound Journey June 12, 2019
  185. Chiangmai BLUES June 6, 2019
  186. Hatha Slow Flow with Neil Jefferson June 3, 2019
  187. Meditating with One Million Meditators Movement June 1, 2019
  188. Vinyasa Happy Flow Series by Vaida May 31, 2019
  189. Muay Thai at the Chiang Mai Boxing Stadium May 30, 2019
  190. Yoga Flow Through the 7 Chakras by Sabrina Pilz May 30, 2019
  191. The Outsiders (people you need to push out of your sacred circle) May 31, 2019
  192. Fascinating Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 22, 2019
  193. World Meditation Day at Heart Space May 21, 2019
  194. Abs Yoga by Gigit May 12, 2019
  195. Kundalini and Vinyasa Yoga with Nicola Symons May 10, 2019
  196. Secret Sunrise Interactive Dance May 9, 2019
  197. Tok Sen Massage from Ying May 8, 2019
  198. Bruschetta: Nawa Saraan Style Apr 22, 2019
  199. Thai Cooking at Pra Nang Thai Cookery School Apr 20, 2019
  200. Bonding with the Elephants in Chiang Mai Apr 11, 2019
  201. Ziplining in Chiang Mai with Eagle Track Zipline Apr 10, 2019
  202. Getting Thai Massage from Chiang Mai's Best (Lar Thanakrit Khamtanong) Mar 21, 2019
  203. Being the Soul of Nawa Saraan Hotel Mar 18, 2019
  204. Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24 - Mar 13, 2019
  205. Curing Cancer with Yoga? Feb 21, 2019
  206. International Training Massage School (ITM): Level 1 Feb 11-15, 2019
  207. Sandesch Album Launch by Christoph Joerg Feb 13, 2019
  208. Meditation in a Sensory Deprivation Tank at Float Chiang Mai Jan 29, 2019
  209. Reiki Share at the Mastermind Brain Spa Jan 26, 2019
  210. Resuming Life in Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019
  211. 4 Days in Chiang Mai at Nawa Saraan Hotel Jan 2-6, 2019
  212. Mike Chong Aug 8, 2018
  213. An Intimate Conversation with my Universe in Chiang Mai Aug 8, 2018
  214. Kneaded and Pampered at Zira Spa Aug 4, 2018
  215. Savoring a Baht 3,500 Birds Nest Soup at Natural Bird Nest by Burapa Aug 3, 2018
  216. Yoga Exploration at The Yoga Tree with Gernot Aug 1, 2018
  217. Laughter Yoga with Saffiya Arnous July 31, 2018
  218. Yoga with Adam at Hidden House Yoga, Chiang Mai July 29, 2018
  219. 2 Weeks in Chiang Mai July 25 - Aug 7, 2018
  220. A First Timer in Chiang Mai Apr 9-23, 2016
  221. Chiang Mai's Amazing Peoplescape Apr 9-23, 2016
  222. Dance Mandala in Chiang Mai at The Yoga Tree Apr 19, 2016
  223. Songkran Waterfight Festival in Chiang Mai Apr 13-15, 2016
  224. Border Crossing from Siem Reap (Cambodia) to Bangkok (Thailand) to Chiang Mai April 9-10, 2016

Travel Tips for Thailand

How to Get a 60-Day Thai Tourist Visa and then Extend by another 30 Days

This process is BEFORE Covid 19. Not sure what it is now.

    60-Day Thai Tourist Visa

    NOTE: There is no need to go back to your country to get the Thai tourist visa. Any major city with a Thai Embassy will do. Apparently there is also no need to have an invitation from a Thai establishment to justify the visa.

  1. Bring the following to the Thai embassy:
    a) proof of money (bank statement will suffice)
    b) flight booking to Thailand
    c) onward flight back to your country from Thailand
    d) filled-in tourist visa form
    e) 2 passport pictures
    f) hotel booking in Thailand (they didn't ask me for this but better be safe)
    g) passport with at least 6 months validity
  2. After handing over all the documents, they will ask you to come pick your passport with the visa the following day from 4 to 5pm. That's it!
  3. NOTE: after 2 successful attempts, I was already questioned the 3rd time.

    30-Day Extension

    NOTE: When your 60-day visa is close to expiry and you want to extend your stay. No need to leave Thailand.

  1. bring the following to the Immigration Office:
    a) passport (make sure your Tourist Visa hasn't expired yet)
    b) Baht 1900
    c) photocopy of your passport + visa duration date stamp + TM6 card (white immigration card) and sign all the copies
    d) completed TM7 visa extension form (available at the Immigration Office)
    e) one 4cmx6cm passport picture
  2. submit the above to the Front Desk. They will give you a stub with your number on it. Take a seat and wait for your number to be called
  3. when your number is called, your picture will be taken. Then go back to your seat. They will call you again.
  4. when they call you again, they'll give you your passport with your extended visa. That's it!
  5. when there are no lines, the whole process can take only 10 minutes
Book Train Tickets in Thailand

Book Train Tickets in Thailand Online by Train36.com

General Travel Tips
  1. arrive early - in case there is a snag (visa snag, documentation snag, transport ticket snag, etc.), you will have ample time to troubleshoot the problem if you arrive early (to the airport, to the bus terminal, etc.)
  2. put detailed itinerary on the Calendar apps of your smart-phone according to timelines - this is where you do all your thinking and planning. Once written down, you don't have to think anymore while you are on the journey...you just follow the steps. This frees your mind for something else that might happen while you are already en route
  3. avoiding scams - as a general rule, I ignore the touts or anyone I don't know who call out to me. The calling comes in many forms - "Hi! Where are you from?", "Excuse me! Excuse me!", "Where are you going?". I don't look them in the eye and I remain non-verbal with them. If you reply to them, you just gave them an 'in' to hound you. In order not to look rude, I smile and wave the 'not interested' hand to them, without looking at them.
  4. power bank - hand-carry your power bank. Do not check it in. You can be called in when you are already inside the plane to go all the way to the loading dock so you can personally remove the power bank...and chances are, you'll have to surrender it to them. And you might delay the plane departure!
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Movie Review: The Kingmaker (2019)

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