Haṭha Yoga Sadhana (HYS) is a structure for the study and practice of energetic cultivation through movement, breath, and attention training. It is self-directed rather than teacher-led because inner energy opens in different ways, at different speeds, and through different pathways in different bodies and heart-minds. It is open-source, improvisational, and unfixed. Like all remixes (and everything is a remix) it combines elements of several distinct traditions, none of which are new. Because this form works with intuitive movement as energy cultivation, I call it “The Subtle Dance.” It can be both blissful and uncomfortable, profoundly easeful and deeply challenging.

The important threads of this practice are inner listening, following movement impulses that come by themselves, and cultivating a kind of somatic intuition through the body. Then uplifting and sustaining vitality and energy through the body.

The core Buddhist practice that supports movement inquiry like this is the limb of Right, or Wise, Effort. This limb discusses how to work with the states — energetic, emotional, somatic — that are present as the backdrop to every moment we’re alive.

For a broad overview of the practice framework, and some writing on the origins and ideas behind this form, please read this post.

And here is a visual tool (PDF), outlining the Haṭha Yoga Sadhana structure and basic flow.

Talk: Intro & setting up for self-guided yoga practice.

Haṭha Yoga Sadhana, basic sequence.

Haṭha Yoga Sadhana, deepening in the structure and basic flow.

Haṭha Yoga Sadhana, mobilizing practice

Haṭha Yoga Sadhana, settling practice