TheLoneRider
a seeker in search of Easter Eggs

Country > Thailand > Nong Khai
Date > 2022 > May
Section > Yoga

Nong Khai, Thailand

Chakras


Svadhisthana (sacral chakra) May 2020

Svadhisthana (sacral chakra)

Mudra: Varun Mudra (thumb-pinky, fire-water)
Mantra: VAM
Form: lotus flower with 6 vermilion petals bearing the Sanskrit letters ba, bha, ma, ya, ra and la
Element: water (apas)
Statement: "My basic needs are met. I'm now intoxicated with sex, drugs and rock & roll. I am immersed in my pleasure center. I want respect, prestige and admiration."
Blocked by: guilt (shit happens and you need to forgive yourself...then you can move on)

Characteristics
Svadhishthana Chakra is at the reproductory organ, represented by a vermilion-colored (red orange) lotus flower with six petals, bearing the Sanskrit letters ba, bha, ma, ya, ra, and la. The mantra is VAM. The water element is shown as a silver crescent. This is where instinct (lying dormant in the Muladhara) finds expression in day-to-day life. Sexual desires are pent-up here and it's difficult for the awakened Kundalini to go past this chakra (because sex is intoxicating). In pop-culture parlance, this is responsible for craving sex, drugs and rock & roll. Compared to the Muladhara which is survival, Svadisthana is already beyond survival and into pleasure - much like Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Most people are stuck here - make money, acquire power and influence, crave for status and prestige.

Benefits
When developed through pranayama, consciousness (caitanya) is attained (in this chakra). Good health pervades and the practitioner becomes disease-free, indefatigable and admirable (even from his enemies). Peace will reign and violence will disappear. He can walk through the jungle at night and no wild animal will harm him.

Svadhisthana (sacral chakra)
Svadhisthana (Sacral Chakra) for good health free from disease, co-existence with wild animals, stamina and admiration by others (guys wanna buy you beer and women want to sleep with you)

Asanas that Aid in Developing Svadhishthana Chakra

  1. Matsyasana - ideal counter-pose for any forward bend and from Sarvangasana. This pose is also beneficial to people with respiratory ailments (asthma, bronchitis) and sexual issues.
  2. Yoga Nidrasa - the life-force wind (prana vayu) is held at the Svadhishthana Chakra and the Brahmaguha Chakra, resulting in long life. Apana Vayu will be controlled.
  3. Buddhasana 1 and Buddhasana 2 - cleans the Svadhishthana, Anahata, Visuddhi and Brahmaguha Chakras and causes automatic cessation of the breath (kevala kumbhaka). This asana cures long-term persistent fever.
  4. Kapilasana - Maintains the Muladhara, Svadhishthana, Manipuraka, Anahata, and Visuddhi Chakras in the proper position (sthiti). It is a helpful guide to dharana and dhyana.

Supernatural Gifts (Siddhis)
Meditating on Svadhishthana brings about special superhuman abilities as follows:

  1. freedom from enemies
  2. the status of a lord among yogis
  3. eloquence in speech
  4. clarity in thinking
  5. being unafraid of water
  6. affinity with astral entities
  7. ability to manifest desires

My Actual Practice
I hold the gyana mudra while in padmasana. On the inhale, I do shitali mudra and engage my mula bandha while visualizing the kundalini shakti rise up from the muladhara to the svadisthana chakra. I visualize the shape and color of the chakras - the clearer the pictures in my head, the better. At the end of the inhale, while still holding the mula bandha, I pull my tummy in for uddiyana bandha, transition my tongue from shitali to nabho mudra, tuck my chin towards my chest for jalandara mudra, and hold my breath into a puraka kumbhaka (breath-hold on the inhale). While in this position, I imagine a white light pervading into the svadisthana chakra and illuminating everything. I give gratitude for the siddhis, feeling that I already have them. Before I make the exhale, I release the chin, release my tongue, and relax my entire body. On the exhalation, I chant the mantra VAM as I completely let go of the body - but I remain in gyana mudra and in padmasana. I repeat this cycle for 20 minutes.

The first few months of the practise, you should feel heat and start perspiring (that's where I am now as of this writing, May 2020). After that phase, you should somehow feel the body tremble uncontrollably (I first had this experience in June 26, 2020 after doing the Wim Hof method).

Full Class

Svadhisthana Chakra
<--#include virtual="/yoga_class/full_svadhisthana.shtml" -->

CHAKRA: SVADHISTHANA CHAKRA

CHANTING: VAM

  • VAM
    <--#include virtual="/yoga_class/chant_vam.shtml" -->
    Single-pointed focus on Svadhisthana Chakra (sacral)
    a) to start the class, 1 minute composure then 3 mins of VAM chanting - ujjayi breathing on the inhale focusing on the mudra, then VAM chanting on the exhale, shifting focus on the chakra
    b) to end the class, 1 minute composure then 3 rounds of VAM chanting - ujjayi breathing on the inhale focusing on the mudra, then VAM chanting on the exhale, shifting focus on the chakra
  • INTRODUCTION

  • Class introduction: Svadhisthana chakra (navel)
    <--#include virtual="/yoga_class/intro_svadhisthana.shtml" -->
    This class revolves on Svadhisthana Chakra. The mudra (Varun Mudra), mantra (VAM), asana (), pranayama () and everything else will revolve around the Svadhisthana.
  • FULL LECTURE: Svadhisthana Chakra

    Svadhisthana
  • Svadhisthana Chakra / VAM chanting
    <--#include virtual="/yoga_class/c_svadhisthana.shtml" -->
    Explaining Svadhisthana (sacral chakra) together with VAM mantra, including features and related topics:
    1. Statement - "My basic needs are met. I'm now intoxicated with sex, drugs and rock & roll. I am immersed in my pleasure center. I want respect, prestige and admiration."
    2. Who are these people? - any self-indulgent narcissist who has money
    3. Features

      1. represented in the physical body as the reproductory organ
      2. where instinct (lying dormant in the Muladhara) finds expression in day-to-day life
      3. sexual desires are pent-up here and it's difficult for the awakened Kundalini to go past this chakra (because sex is intoxicating)
      4. beyond survival and into self-indulgent pleasure
    4. Mantra - VAM
    5. Sitting Pose - xxxxxxx
    6. Asanas - matsyasana (fish pose)
    7. Pranayama - xxxxxxxxxx
    8. Blockage - guilt (shit happens and you need to forgive yourself...then you can move on)
    9. Activation - chanting VAM on Varun mudra
    10. Element - water
    11. Mudra - varun mudra (index finger + thumb)
    12. Warning - most people are stuck here - make money, acquire power and influence, crave for status and prestige
    13. Body / Physical - genitals
    14. Location - sex organs
    15. Form / Color - lotus flower with 6 vermilion (red orange) petals
    16. Enhanced Human Qualities

      1. reflective nature (santosha)
      2. perfection of relationships
      3. clarity in thinking
      4. eloquence in speech
      5. being unafraid of water
      6. you don't get sick
      7. you don't get tired
      8. charismatic and admirable (even from enemies)
      9. freedom from enemies and violence will disappear
      10. experience deep inner peace
      11. control of the senses resulting in creative ability
    17. Super Human Qualities (Siddhis)

      1. wild animals will not harm you
      2. psychic powers
      3. affinity with astral entities
      4. ability to manifest desires
    18. Svadhisthana perspective vs other chakras

      1. Muladhara: "I need food clothing and shelter to survive"
      2. Svadhisthana: "sex, drugs and rock & roll"
      3. Manipuraka: "I, me, mine - the world is my oyster"
      4. Anahata: "I have love and compassion"
      5. Visuddhi: "Instead of fighting with life, I begin to flow with the current of life. I perform at a high level of competence. People naturally move towards me because I can do things beyond their understanding and abilities."
      6. Ajna: "My intuition is accurate. I have psychic abilities. I see things without the cobwebs and clutter. I see the world in black and white with a very minimal shade of gray (uncertainty, doubt, indecision). Nothing can touch me, nothing can disturb me. But experientially, I still do not feel the spontaneous ecstasy of life."
      7. Sahasrara: "I am the convergence of energy and consciousness. The self, the universe and God become one"

  • MUDRA: VARUN (Svadhisthana Chakra)

    Varun Mudra

    Varun Mudra

    <--#include virtual="/2019/sep/mudra_varun/varun.shtml" -->

    Finger Position: thumb and little finger touch (concentrate on this point), 3 other fingers are together, straightened, then relaxed
    Chakra: Svadisthana chakra
    Affected Body Part: sexual organs, sacrum (1st and 2nd sacral vertebrae)
    Mantra: VAM
    Hand Level: shoulder
    Activated Elements: fire and water
    Benefits: water retention, improving skin conditions, detoxification, retaining youth, blood disorders and Gastroenteritis

    ASANA

  • Hang
    <--#include virtual="/yoga_class/hang2.shtml" -->
    Timed 3 rounds with twists and full fascia stretching (interspersed with stretching while fingers recover) and compare over time
  • Stretching
    <--#include virtual="/yoga_class/stretching2.shtml" -->
    Basic stretching to neck, shoulders, chest, back, side bends, pelvic roll, thigh stretch, knee roll, calf stretch
  • Surya namaskar A & B
    <--#include virtual="/yoga_class/surya2.shtml" -->
    3 rounds of Surya Namaskar A, 3 rounds of Surya Namaskar B
  • ABS| Wim Hof
    <--#include virtual="/yoga_class/a_abs_wim.shtml" -->
      Facing Up
    1. reverse plank
    2. Russian twist
    3. leg raise
    4. crunch
    5. boat
    6. hip raise
    7. seated in&out
    8. bicycle
    9. flutter kicks

    10. Facing Down
    11. high/dolphin plank
    12. hamsasana
    13. mayurasana
    14. slide the mat

    15. Facing Side
    16. side plank
    17. side hip raise/lower
    18. oblique crunches

    19. Arm Balancing
    20. lolasana
    21. crane
    22. L-sit

    23. Back Muscles
    24. superman F, S, B
    25. half-forwardbend to standing

  • ADDHITTANA

  • high plank
  • PRANAYAMA

  • Pranayama/Breathing: Wim Hof
    /yoga_class/p_wim3rnd.shtml
    1st 1:00, exhale hold/relax, inhale hold/relax
    2nd 1:15, exhale hold/relax, inhale hold/tri-bandha/fire , exhale tummo
    3rd 1:30, inhale hold/tri-bandha/fire, exhale tummo
  • MEDITATION

  • Meditation: Anapana
    <--#include virtual="/yoga_class/m_anapana.shtml" -->
    No more yogic breathing, just normal breath. Observing the habit pattern of the breath. Is it slow? steady? deep? long? thin? Is it full? half-empty? is the out-breath warmer? Just oberve without changing anything. Observe with no reaction.
  • CHANTING: VAM

  • VAM
    <--#include virtual="/yoga_class/chant_vam.shtml" -->
    Single-pointed focus on Svadhisthana Chakra (sacral)
    a) to start the class, 1 minute composure then 3 mins of VAM chanting - ujjayi breathing on the inhale focusing on the mudra, then VAM chanting on the exhale, shifting focus on the chakra
    b) to end the class, 1 minute composure then 3 rounds of VAM chanting - ujjayi breathing on the inhale focusing on the mudra, then VAM chanting on the exhale, shifting focus on the chakra


  • Ending Thoughts
    I remember during my younger years, shortly after graduating university, and pursuing a promising career, I was deep into my Svadisthana Chakra. With a good paying job, a modeling sideline, money, car, tv commercial airing nightly and my own apartment, it was a very good life of freedom, girls and glamour. I didn't have to sneak my girlfriend into my Dad's house anymore. Getting laid was the order of the day. There would never be an episode where I was not with a girlfriend. I even obsessed on a Lamborghini. It was all good while it lasted. But all that is history now. I'm happy with the meager loose change in my pocket, content that I have a roof over my head even if I am technically homeless. With no property but a wealth of life experience as I travel the open road, I can equally say that now is also a very good life.

    --- 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



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



    Svadisthana Chakra Meditation Chant [Seed Mantra VAM Chants]



    Sources:

    1. Yoga Makaranda 1 by Tirumalai Krishnamacharya
    2. Yoga Makaranda II by Tirumalai Krishnamacharya
    3. Yoga and Kriya: A Systematic Course in the Ancient Tantric Techniques ??? by Swami Satyananda Saraswati
    4. Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha by Swami Satyananda Saraswati

    Leave a comment?

    Next chakra:

    Manipuraka (Navel Chakra) Chiang Mai, Thailand

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    (Aug 5, 2020) Manipuraka Chakra resides at the navel. A person at Manipuraka is strong in body and mind. He is a mover and shaker. He dominates and asserts. He also wonders if this is all that life is all about...more »»

    Next story:

    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 -
    Chiang Mai to Bangkok Trains source: railway.co.th
    1. Check Train Schedule & Fares
    2. Book Online - direct booking with State Railway of Thailand. Best to register first. If going to BKK from CNX, click "Northern Line".

      note -- big difference between booking direct with the State Railway and booking with an online 3rd party agent. 12GO was charging B1330 for the same trip that only cost me B941 with the State Railway.

      note -- Oct 2022, I took the #10 Train from CNX to BKK, upper berth, 2nd class, a/c, sleeper, B941. The train was clean, fast, comfortable and modern. If you have heavy luggage that will cost more money in flight checkin, I would suggest this train. Otherwise, the flight now is so much cheaper it doesn't even make sense to take the bus or train.
    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. Goodbye Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019 - Oct 10, 2022
    2. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Oct 10, 2022
    3. Siamaya Chocolates Oct 2, 2022
    4. [an error occurred while processing this directive]
    5. September Snapshots Sep 30, 2022
    6. Carrot Cake Sep 12, 2022
    7. Making Coconut Bread Sep 3, 2022
    8. August Snapshots Aug 31, 2022
    9. Yoga Nidra with Chunyah and Tom Aug 18, 2022
    10. Coconut Pancake Aug 11, 2022
    11. July Snapshots Jul 31, 2022
    12. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Jul 31, 2022
    13. Jason, Max and Elizabeth Pizza Nite Jul 28, 2022
    14. Yakiniku Dinner with Max and Jason Jul 25, 2022
    15. Icebath at Nawa Saraan Jul 6 - Oct 5, 2022
    16. June Snapshots Jun 30, 2022
    17. Tom, Chunyah and Simona Pizza Nite Jun 23, 2022
    18. Yoga Class Pizza Nite Jun 15, 2022
    19. Pranayama with Nicha Jun 14, 2022
    20. May Snapshots May 31, 2022
    21. Lover's Quarrel May 26, 2022
    22. Getting Lost on a Hike May 25, 2022
    23. Biohacker Meetup at 'Living with The Spirit' May 22, 2022
    24. Music and Magic at Paapu House May 5, 2022
    25. Breathwork + Icebath @ Alt_Chiangmai II Apr 20, 2022
    26. April Chronicles 2022 Apr 30, 2022
    27. Tombstone Epitaph Apr 29, 2022
    28. Kayaking along the Ping River with the BioHackers Apr 24, 2022
    29. [an error occurred while processing this directive]
    30. Pizza Nite with Jerry, Paolo and Abby Apr 9, 2022
    31. Tom Maher's Muay Thai Fight Apr 8, 2022
    32. Breathwork + Icebath @ Alt_Chiangmai Apr 6, 2022
    33. Yoga with Leo Apr 5, 2022
    34. March Chronicles 2022 Mar 31, 2022
    35. Street Photo Mar 31, 2022
    36. Peoplescape Mar 31, 2022
    37. Chiang Mai's Recovering Music Scene Mar 31, 2022
    38. Street Photo Mar 31, 2022
    39. Yoga and Fitness Mar 26, 2022
    40. Friday Bitcoin Meetups Mar 18, 2022
    41. Pizza Nite with Aida and Sophie Mar 14, 2022
    42. Pizza Nite with Kevin, Jamie and Kris Mar 10, 2022
    43. In Search of Genetic Immortality Mar 5, 2022
    44. February Chronicles 2022 Feb 28, 2022
    45. Palm-Feeding Wild Birds Feb 26, 2022
    46. Cuckoo Feb 16, 2022
    47. Tell John Feb 16, 2022
    48. Pizza Nite with Kris, Simona and Mary Feb 15, 2022
    49. Pizza Nite with the Chiang Mai Boyz Feb 6, 2022
    50. Welcoming the New Year Jan 31, 2022
    51. January Snapshots Jan 31, 2022
    52. ABS Fitness Challenge Jan 16 - Apr 16, 2022
    53. Pumpkin Tahini Recipe Jan 3, 2022
    54. 2021: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2021
    55. Pizza Nite with Simona and Lisa Dec 28, 2021
    56. Tahini Salad Dressing Dec 27, 2021
    57. Baba Ganoush Recipe Dec 23, 2021
    58. 7 Universal Laws Dec 20, 2021
    59. Sacred Circuitry Dec 18, 2021
    60. Cave-Living in a Boutique Hotel in Chiang Mai Dec 14, 2021
    61. Tummo Yoga + Wim Hof Breathing + Full-Body Muscle Contraction Dec 13, 2021
    62. Monk Chat Dec 10, 2021
    63. Making Tahini and Hummus Dec 8, 2021
    64. Watering the Plants Hands-Free Dec 2, 2021
    65. Vietnamese Phin Coffee Filter Dec 2, 2021
    66. Tummo Yoga Dec 1, 2021
    67. The Bliss of Inner Fire: Book Summary/Review Dec 1, 2021
    68. The Bliss of Inner Fire: Heart Practice of the Six Yogas of Naropa Dec 1, 2021
    69. 'Must Experience' Cafés of Chiang Mai Nov 30, 2021
    70. British Hobnob Cookies Nov 22, 2021
    71. New York Cheese Cake Nov 22, 2021
    72. Dham's Poetry Nov 14, 2021
    73. Pizza Nite with Simona and Nat Nov 11, 2021
    74. Stepping Forward / Reaching Out Oct 31, 2021
    75. Cancel Culture Attack Oct 31, 2021
    76. Mantra Primer Oct 29, 2021
    77. Spinal Mobility Oct 7, 2021
    78. Swedish Cinnamon Rolls [Kanelbullar] Oct 4, 2021
    79. Just Bring 2 Chinese Oct 3, 2021
    80. Sep Snapshots Sep 31, 2021
    81. One-Leg Yoga Asana Sequences Sep 30, 2021
    82. Pizza Nite with Nut, Monika and Yuki Sep 27, 2021
    83. 23-Minute Ice Bath Sep 27, 2021
    84. Pizza Nite with Nut, Simona and Malee Sep 23, 2021
    85. Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep) Sep 23, 2021
    86. Making Cornbread Sep 15, 2021
    87. Kombucha: 2nd Batch Sep 11, 2021
    88. Making German Stollen Bread Sep 9, 2021
    89. Pizza Nite with Jackson, Goi and Paapu Sep 6, 2021
    90. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug 31, 2021
    91. Making Homemade Kombucha Aug 30, 2021
    92. Wrong Question to Ask This Crowd Aug 29, 2021
    93. Pizza Nite with Tom, Chunyah and Goi Aug 20, 2021
    94. Pizza Nite with Moms and Kids Aug 15, 2021
    95. Bahya Kumbhaka (breath-hold on the exhale) Aug 14, 2021
    96. Everybody's Only Friend Aug 13, 2021
    97. Vanillekipferl (German Vanilla Crescent Cookies) Aug 11, 2021
    98. Fighting Infection through Yoga Aug 3, 2021
    99. Too Close for Friendship Aug 2, 2021
    100. Manifesting: Epicurus' Pursuit Jul 31, 2021
    101. Homemade Rum Raisin Ice Cream Jul 30, 2021
    102. Ice Bath at Nawa Saraan Healing Space Jul 25, 2021
    103. Pizza Nite + Slack Line + Hammock Jul 23, 2021
    104. Yin-Yoga & Hypnosis with Christine Thiel Jul 20, 2021
    105. Pizza Nite with James and Nat Jul 19, 2021
    106. Antara Kumbhaka on Nadi Shodan Pranayama: Yogic Breath-Hold on the Inhale Jul 17, 2021
    107. Moving and Cashing-Out Bitcoin Jun 2 - Jul 11, 2021
    108. 'The Bow' Yoga Jul 7, 2021
    109. Yoga Classes with Calum Mar 27 - Jul 4, 2021
    110. Hike to Wat Pa Thammachat Waterfall Jul 2, 2021
    111. Pizza Brunch with the Yogis July 1, 2021
    112. Continuing Friendships in Chiang Mai Jun 30, 2021
    113. On the Brink of Hunger, the ENABLERS Come to Light Jun 21, 2021
    114. Hatha Vinyasa Yoga with Katharine Day Jun 17, 2021
    115. Pranayama Basics II Jun 16, 2021
    116. 36-Hour Love Life Jun 11, 2021
    117. Pranayama Basics I Jun 9, 2021
    118. Biohackers Meetup in Chiang Mai Jun 6, 2021
    119. Learning How to Breathe Jun 2, 2021
    120. Not the Usual Day-to-Day Life May 31, 2021
    121. Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021
    122. Breathwork & Ice Bath with Jason Ryer of Zen Strength May 23, 2021
    123. It's Raining Bell Peppers May 7, 2021
    124. Yoga Classes with Nana Apr 20, 2021
    125. You Want to be Wonder Woman? Apr 8, 2021
    126. Kunjal Kriya / Vamana Dhauti (induced vomiting) Apr 1, 2021
    127. Coffeemates, Breadmates and Yogamates in Chiang Mai Jan-Mar 2021
    128. Varisara Dhauti (cleansing of the entire digestive tract) Mar 26, 2021
    129. Spiritual Backpacker Interview by Napasorn 'Cherry' Suvarnapradip Mar 23, 2021
    130. Private One-on-One Yoga Classes with Doriana Feb 17 - Mar 14, 2021
    131. Transformational Life Events Mar 13, 2021
    132. Guess Who's Coming to Bread Day? Mar 1, 2021
    133. Mula Shodhana (anal cleansing) Feb 27, 2021
    134. Are You My Queen? Feb 25, 2021
    135. Breaking the 5-Minute Breath-hold Barrier Feb 25, 2021
    136. Kirtan with Chiang Mai's Khun Thai Seekers Feb 7, 2021
    137. Breaking the 4-minute Breath-hold Feb 7, 2021
    138. Pranayama Primer Feb 2, 2021
    139. Heartbreak in every Song Jan 24, 2021
    140. The Silent Killer is Baaack! Jan 12, 2021
    141. Learning the Thai Language Jan 9, 2021
    142. 2020: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2020
    143. Reversing/Slowing Down the Aging Process Dec 30, 2020
    144. Hike to Huay Keaw Waterfall Dec 20, 2020
    145. Yoga Mat Dec 19, 2020
    146. Hiking to Wat Pha Lat along the Monk's Trail Dec 19, 2020
    147. Am I Psycho? Dec 9, 2020
    148. Muffin Man Dec 8, 2020
    149. Polyamory Dec 4, 2020
    150. The Wim Hof Ice Bath Dec 3, 2020
    151. RSVP Nov 25, 2020
    152. High Intensity Interval Yoga (Yoga + HIIT) Nov 14, 2020
    153. Cleansing the Nadis (Energy Pathway) Nov 13, 2020
    154. Yoga for a 360-degree Core Nov 6, 2020
    155. Edward Witten: 'the smartest living physicist' Nov 4, 2020
    156. Srinivasa Ramanujan: Mathematician of the Divine Oct 27, 2020
    157. Bashar as Channeled by Darryl Anka Oct 26, 2020
    158. Vinyasa Krama and Ashtanga Yoga with Aida Yoga Oct 18, 2020
    159. Deepak Chopra: author, lecturer, healer Oct 12, 2020
    160. Facebook Friends Oct 1, 2020
    161. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug-Sep 2020 Sep 30, 2020
    162. Siddhis (yogic super powers) Sep 30, 2020
    163. Learning the Import/Export Trade Sep 4, 2020
    164. Music and Magic at Justin's Birthday Bash Sep 3, 2020
    165. Biggest Stone in his Shoe Sep 1, 2020
    166. Abandoned Aug 25, 2020
    167. Intelligent Romantic Break-up Aug 25, 2020
    168. Dad-Zoned Aug 18, 2020
    169. Public Display of Affection Aug 9, 2020
    170. Gabriella's Birthday Bash at Mothership Resort Aug 8-9, 2020
    171. Shifting Peoplescape of Chiang Mai July 31, 2020
    172. Yoga Class for Strength and Muscle Jul 30, 2020
    173. Yoga Class for Optimum Digestion July 29, 2020
    174. Yoga Class for Healthy Eyes Jul 27, 2020
    175. Hippie Night at Nawa Saraan Healing Space July 24, 2020
    176. The Podcast Series: Alan "Heart Math" Strydom Jul 17, 2020
    177. Prana Vayu Adhitthana Yoga Class July 11-12, 2020
    178. Coming Back to Chiang Mai Jun 29, 2020
    179. Goodbye Chiang Mai Jan 23, 2020
    180. Prasnopanishad: Understanding Prana Jan 17, 2020
    181. Hiking the Monk's Trail Jan 15, 2020
    182. Chaturanga Jan 10, 2020
    183. You Spooned Me Jan 3, 2020
    184. 2019: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2019
    185. Friends, Coffeemates and Breadmates (Dec 2019) Dec 31, 2019
    186. Visiting Mae Sot Dec 27-30, 2019
    187. Let's Make it About You - an Epiphany Dec 17, 2019
    188. Shut-Up! Dec 7, 2019
    189. Roasted Red Bell Pepper Puree Dec 3, 2019
    190. Coffeemates and Breadmates (Nov 2019) Nov 30, 2019
    191. Bhujangini Mudra Nov 25, 2019
    192. Mathangini Mudra Nov 24, 2019
    193. Kaka Mudra Nov 23, 2019
    194. Pasini Mudra Nov 20, 2019
    195. Aswini Mudra Nov 18, 2019
    196. Sambhavi Mudra Nov 16, 2019
    197. Manduka Mudra Nov 15, 2019
    198. Tataka Mudra Nov 14, 2019
    199. Sakti Calana Mudra Nov 10, 2019
    200. Vajroli Mudra Nov 9, 2019
    201. Coffeemates and Breadmates (Oct 2019) Oct to Nov 5, 2019
    202. Yoni Mudra Nov 1, 2019
    203. Viparita Karani Mudra Oct 31, 2019
    204. Khecari Mudra Oct 30, 2019
    205. Mahadeva Mudra Oct 28, 2019
    206. Sacred Cacao - Chakra Dance Journey Oct 26, 2019
    207. Partner Healing with Natascha Oct 24, 2019
    208. Maha Bandha Mudra Oct 24, 2019
    209. Point-Of-Failure Birthday Workout Oct 22, 2019
    210. Mula Bandha Mudra Oct 21, 2019
    211. Hugfest at Thapae Gate, Chiang Mai Oct 19, 2019
    212. Anushasan Mudra Oct 18, 2019
    213. Ling Mudra Oct 17, 2019
    214. Jalandhara Bandha Mudra Oct 15, 2019
    215. Learning Thai with Cee Oct 13, 2019
    216. Uddiyana Bandha Mudra Oct 10, 2019
    217. Nabho Mudra Oct 9, 2019
    218. Maha Mudra Oct 7, 2019
    219. 20 Essential Mudras by T. Krishnamacharya Oct. 6, 2019
    220. Mindfulness Gong Bath by Vee (Veerayuth Pongsiri) Oct 3, 2019
    221. Cuddle Party by Abundant Love CM Oct 1, 2019
    222. Vayu Mudra Oct 1, 2019
    223. Visa-Run to Tachileik, Myanmar Sep 28, 2019
    224. Sankalpa Mudra Sep 27, 2019
    225. Surya Pradarshini Mudra Sep 26, 2019
    226. Eye-Gazing at Heart Space Sep 20, 2019
    227. Prana Vayu (Pranic Wind) Sep 20, 2019
    228. 2-Week Yoga Challenge by Agnese Erba Sep 17, 2019
    229. The Mudra Project Sep 13, 2019
    230. Sunday Vinyasa Flow with Marina Forster Sep 8, 2019
    231. Shamanic Breathwork by Rachel Constantino Sep 4, 2019
    232. The Conscious Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Aug 31, 2019
    233. Of Winos and Yogis Aug 26, 2019
    234. The 9 Jhanas of Buddha Aug 22, 2019
    235. Full Moon Ceremony at Heart Space Aug 15, 2019
    236. Yin Yoga - Water Element by Martina Barabas Aug 15, 2019
    237. Hatha Mix Yoga with Christin Aug 13, 2019
    238. Boy Blues Bar Rocks Chiang Mai Aug 5, 2019
    239. Back to my Beloved Chiang Mai Aug 1, 2019
    240. Kaleidoscope of Chiang Mai's Peoplescape July 27, 2019
    241. Secret Sunrise: Nelson Mandela International Day July 17, 2019
    242. Farewell Picnic with Alan and Nicola July 15, 2019
    243. Secret Sunrise: Water July 3, 2019
    244. Hotel Review: Arun Suite June 27, 2019
    245. Bruce Lipton: Epigentics to Transcend Genes June 24, 2019
    246. Optimizing Life thru Heart Math May 8, 15 and 22, 2019
    247. Connective Cacao and Sound Journey June 12, 2019
    248. Chiangmai BLUES June 6, 2019
    249. Hatha Slow Flow with Neil Jefferson June 3, 2019
    250. Meditating with One Million Meditators Movement June 1, 2019
    251. Vinyasa Happy Flow Series by Vaida May 31, 2019
    252. Muay Thai at the Chiang Mai Boxing Stadium May 30, 2019
    253. Yoga Flow Through the 7 Chakras by Sabrina Pilz May 30, 2019
    254. The Outsiders (people you need to push out of your sacred circle) May 31, 2019
    255. Fascinating Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 22, 2019
    256. World Meditation Day at Heart Space May 21, 2019
    257. Abs Yoga by Gigit May 12, 2019
    258. Kundalini and Vinyasa Yoga with Nicola Symons May 10, 2019
    259. Secret Sunrise Interactive Dance May 9, 2019
    260. Tok Sen Massage from Ying May 8, 2019
    261. Bruschetta: Nawa Saraan Style Apr 22, 2019
    262. Thai Cooking at Pra Nang Thai Cookery School Apr 20, 2019
    263. Bonding with the Elephants in Chiang Mai Apr 11, 2019
    264. Ziplining in Chiang Mai with Eagle Track Zipline Apr 10, 2019
    265. Getting Thai Massage from Chiang Mai's Best (Lar Thanakrit Khamtanong) Mar 21, 2019
    266. Being the Soul of Nawa Saraan Hotel Mar 18, 2019
    267. Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24 - Mar 13, 2019
    268. Curing Cancer with Yoga? Feb 21, 2019
    269. International Training Massage School (ITM): Level 1 Feb 11-15, 2019
    270. Sandesch Album Launch by Christoph Joerg Feb 13, 2019
    271. Meditation in a Sensory Deprivation Tank at Float Chiang Mai Jan 29, 2019
    272. Reiki Share at the Mastermind Brain Spa Jan 26, 2019
    273. Resuming Life in Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019
    274. 4 Days in Chiang Mai at Nawa Saraan Hotel Jan 2-6, 2019
    275. Mike Chong Aug 8, 2018
    276. An Intimate Conversation with my Universe in Chiang Mai Aug 8, 2018
    277. Kneaded and Pampered at Zira Spa Aug 4, 2018
    278. Savoring a Baht 3,500 Birds Nest Soup at Natural Bird Nest by Burapa Aug 3, 2018
    279. Yoga Exploration at The Yoga Tree with Gernot Aug 1, 2018
    280. Laughter Yoga with Saffiya Arnous July 31, 2018
    281. Yoga with Adam at Hidden House Yoga, Chiang Mai July 29, 2018
    282. 2 Weeks in Chiang Mai July 25 - Aug 7, 2018
    283. A First Timer in Chiang Mai Apr 9-23, 2016
    284. Chiang Mai's Amazing Peoplescape Apr 9-23, 2016
    285. Dance Mandala in Chiang Mai at The Yoga Tree Apr 19, 2016
    286. Songkran Waterfight Festival in Chiang Mai Apr 13-15, 2016
    287. 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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