CHIANG MAI EVENTS
EVENTS
Feb 26, 2021 | 6pm-7pm | Ecstatic Dance
Feb 27, 2021 | 5pm | Full Moon Ceremony
Feb 23-Mar 4, 2021 | 12pm-1:30pm | Kundalini Yoga
Mar 6, 2021 | 5pm-7pm | Archetypal Wisdom Dance
Sep 30, 2020
Siddhis (yogic super powers)
Translation: accomplishment, attainment, or success in connection to both the physical and superphysical worlds
What are Siddhis?
In yoga, siddhis are supernatural or magical powers that develop as the practitioner deepens his practice. There are 64 minor siddhis and 8 ashta siddhis (special siddhis). Siddhis happen involuntarily whether intentioned or not. Siddhis are not needed for enlightenment and can be ignored in pursuit of self-realization. In an idealized practice, showing-off or exhibiting siddhis is discouraged because they are simply regarded as distractions from staying on the path. Not all siddhis are desirable - depends if the yogi is ready.
How Siddhis are Acquired
- by birth - because of merits earned in previous lives, a person could simply be born with siddhis. This explains child prodigies who perform far beyond their years. Often times, siddhis remain inert until favorable conditions are met to unleash these gifts.
- tapas (austerities) - my understanding of tapas is when you have an easy option and a hard option to do something, you do it the hard way. Why? It develops strength of mind and fortitude. But I was not aware it also develops siddhis. I practice tapas as a general rule. Result? Austerity is embraced instead of developing an aversion to, pain is observed equanimously instead of being left to suffer, downturns in life are viewed as part of a karmic process instead of misfortune. In short, with tapas, nothing hurts anymore.
Example: you can take the flight of steps instead of taking an elevator, or you can take a cold shower instead of a hot shower, or you can walk the mile to the store instead of taking your car. This concept is somehow similar to the Japanese code of the Bushido - cry in the dojo, laugh in the battlefield. When you are used to austerity, nothing hurts. While other people may suffer and complain, you can take the punishment or the ordeal with ease and a balanced mind.
- drugs or hallucinogens - LSD or ayahuasca have been a popular alternative as a mind expander - but I doubt if they really produce siddhis apart from the spiritual insight gained from the experience. Moreover, the reward is not 'earned' and the person may not be prepared for the epiphany. I personally do not find this alluring. Why rely on something external when the answers already reside within?
- mantra (uttering a spiritual sound) - a mantra calms the mind and brings about spiritual awakening. A popular example of a mantra is OM. It is claimed to be the sound of the universe itself. It is the only sound that can be pronounced without the use of the tongue. Most chakras have their own mantra - LAM for muladhara, VAM for svadisthana, RAM for manipuraka, etc. There are long mantras that are powerful. One such is the Gayatri Mantra.
- samadhi - it takes a lot of dedication and years of practice to reach samadhi (absorption). Samadi is on the highest level of the 8 limbs of yoga. Reaching samadi means having mastered yama (abstinences), niyama (observances), asana (yoga postures), pranayama (breath control), pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses), dharana (concentration), and dhyana (meditation). When siddhi finally happens as a result of samadhi, the practitioner is deeply anchored with the foundations of yoga and the underlying gift is profound and powerful.
Animadi Siddhi reduces your size to an atom
Vibhuti Pada by Patanjali
All sutras (short aphoristic statements) by the sage Patanjali referring to siddhis are contained in one of his 4 books, Vibhuti Pada: The Book of Spiritual Powers. The book explains what these powers are and how to attain them. Moreover, the book talks about consciousness.
In the 8 limbs of yoga, Patanjali specifically points to the last three (dharana, dhyana, and samadhi) which forms samyama to be practiced simultaneously to gain full control of these siddhis.
Dharana and Dhyana
To tame the mind and stop it from behaving like a monkey-mind is called dharana. This is essential to achieve ekagrata citta (one-pointedness of the mind). One who stills his mind to ekagrata will have all the senses under his command and will develop all the siddhis. When the mind gets controlled, the indriyas (perception senses - 5 for expression and 5 for cognition) become internalized and will perform their activities from inside. Hence by controlling the mind, all the indriyas will come under one's control.
What are the 8 Siddhis?
It should be noted that depending on the sect or tradition, the list of siddhis may vary. Tantric Buddhism, Sikhism, Samkhya philosophy, Vaishnavism, and Shaivism, all have their interpretation of siddhis. Below are the siddhis based on Patanjali's Yoga Sutras: (caveat: siddhi listings and their power vary from one source to another. Many overlap and exist in more than one chakra. Take this only as a bird's eyeview guideline)
- Anima Siddhi - aka animadi siddhi, ability to perceive the microscopic world
mudra: mahadeva mudra - mula bandha mudra (anal squeeze) and bahya kumbhaka (breath retention on the exhalation) on uddiyana bandha (tummy-tuck). This increases the jathara agni (digestive fire) and gives rise to animadi guna siddhi (desired quality of animadi siddhi)
statement: "I can become infinitely small and explore the quantum realm. Because the density in the body is changed, I can pass through solid objects. I am practically invisible."
- Mahima Siddhi - becoming infinitely large, having the ability to see the structures of the galaxies
- Laghima Siddhi - becoming weightless or lighter than air
- Prapti Siddhi - instantaneously travel or be anywhere at will. This siddhi removes the limitations of space which separate two objects from each other. It is said one will even be able to touch the moon with one's finger [i.e. the limitation of distance is removed].
- Prakamya Siddhi - ability to manifest desires or realize objects out of thin air
- Isitva Siddhi - ability to create and destroy. Lordship over creation and annihilation.
- Vasitva Siddhi - ability to control all 5 elements of nature (fire, air, ether, earth and water), and mind control such as hypnosis
- Kama-avasayitva - complete satisfaction and freedom from desire (or)
- Garima Siddhi - ability to become infinitely heavy and be immovable by anyone or anything
Chakras and their Siddhis
Siddhis develop within their corresponding chakras, when these chakras are activated. Chakras are energy centers within the etheric body where nadis (energy pathways) converge - think of a bus terminal where all buses converge after going about their specific routes. There are 114 chakras altogether, although only 7 are considered major chakras. Chakras are activated through meditation, asana, pranayama and bandha.
Muladhara Chakra
- darduri siddhi, jumping high and long, up in the air, (simulating flight)
- trikala jnana, memory of past lives, ability to transcend time - present, past and future
- freedom from disease
- mind is tamed and gives rise to sankalpa (ability to manifest desires)
-
control over the elements of the earth - becoming air, flesh, water, etc.
- kayakalpa siddhi, to slow down aging and live long by conserving amrita (the nectar of life)
Svadisthana Chakra
- disease-free
- indefatigable
- admirable (even from his enemies), freedom from enemies, deep inner peace and charisma
- experience peace and violence will disappear
- walk through the jungle at night and no wild animal will harm him
- psychic powers, affinity with astral entities
- control of the senses resulting in creative ability, reflective nature, perfection of relationships, eloquence in speech, clarity in thinking
- the status of a lord among yogis
- being unafraid of water
- sankalpa, ability to manifest desires
Manipuraka Chakra
- cure diseases, never encounter any physical or mental afflictions. These afflictions will flee his presence
- will be able to face any disaster or accident with mental fortitude
- he develops divya drishti (divine perception)
- experience the bliss of identifying atman (universal self) as a separate entity from the body
- all organs or parts of the body function at their proper strength
- conquers time
- can enter the body of another
- can make gold, see hidden treasures
- power to create and destroy
Anahata Chakra
- becomes radiant. His presence can light up a room
- becomes endearing and loved by all. Women are drawn to him
- can practice with high levels of concentration and focus
- can articulate his ideas into powerful words
- becomes capable of protection and destruction
- can enter his body and other people's bodies at will
- awareness of one's karma, knowledge of past, present and future, clairvoyance ability
- ability to walk in the air
- ability to travel all over the world at the speed of thought
- seeing God in everything (not a concept but the actual seeing) occurs
Vishuddhi Chakra
- laghima, the power of levitation
- occult competence
- communication, command of speech and mantras
- enhancement of artistic virtues
- attraction by ganas (disembodied beings)
- freedom from disease and old age
- destruction of dangers
- obtains calmness, serenity, purity
- understanding of dreams
- masters entire self
- becomes unconscious of the outer world and enjoys the inner realm
- supreme reasoning overcomes the heart
- transcends to a state of non-judgment
Ajna Chakra
- destruction of karma (past lives)
- able to be in a continuous state of samadhi (realized non-duality)
- visions of past, present and future
- desires come true
- internal and external changes cease to be a problem
Sahasrara Chakra
- knowledge, knower and known become one and liberated
- feelings, emotions and desires are dissolved into their cause. Union is achieved. Non-dual consciousness occurs
- all siddhis are obtained
- transcends the desire to use those siddhis or manifest his desires
- no separation between the experience and the experiencer (I am that)
Other Siddhis
- Clairaudience: Knowledge of the Sounds-Language of All Beings
- Knowledge Of Past Lives Or Previous Births
- Telepathy: Knowledge Of The Minds Of Other Beings
- Foreknowledge Of The Time Of Death
- Strength Of Any Attitude (Such As Friendliness)
- Super Strength (Such As That Of An Elephant)
- Clairvoyance: Knowledge of Subtle, Hidden, & Remote Things
- Knowledge Of Other Worlds, Realms, And Universes
- Knowledge Of The Arrangement Of Stars And Planets
- Knowledge Of The Movement Of Stars And Planets
- Full Knowledge Of The Systems Of The Body
- Freedom From Hunger And Thirst
- The Power Of Steadiness Or Immobility
- Visions of Siddhas (Perfected Beings)
- Intuitive Knowledge or Spontaneous Illumination
- Knowledge Of The Nature Of The Mind
- Knowledge Of Pure Consciousness (Spirit/Purusha)
- Extra Sensory Perception: Activating Your Psychic Abilities
- Entering And Controlling The Bodies Of Others
- Radiating Light Around The Body (The Luminosity of Auras)
- Super Hearing (Hearing At Vast Distances)
- Ability To Travel Through Space (Teleportation)
- Vision Of The Light Of The Universal Mind
- Mastery Of The Elements (Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Ether)
- Making The Body Atomically Small, Indestructible, Perfect
- Perfection Of The Body In Beauty, Strength, And Brilliance
- Mastery Over The Five Senses Of The Body
- Quickness Of The Mind (Instantaneous Cognition)
- Omnipotence & Omniscience: Mastery Of All States Of Existence
- Knowledge Born Of The Awareness Of Ultimate Reality
- Intuitive Discernment: Ability To Distinguish or Differentiate All Things
- Higher Knowledge And Wisdom
- Absolute Freedom: The Perfect Spiritual Life
- The Psychic Abilities Described as the Hindu Siddhis
- Anurmi-Mattva: Undisturbed by anger or other emotions
- Dura-Sravana: Ability to hear far away sounds
- Dura-Darsanam: Ability to see faraway things
- Manah-Java: Moving the body to follow thought
- Kamap-Rupam: Assumption of any form
- Para-Kaya Pravesanam: Entering other's bodies
- Sva-Chanda Mrityuh: Dying when desiring
- Devanam Saha Krida Anudarsanam: Seeing the past times of gods and angels
- Yatha Sankalpa Samsiddhihih: Meeting one's objectives
- Ajna Apratihata Gatih: Being obeyed without objection
- Aeromancy: Interpreting the shapes of the clouds
- Afterlife communication: Connecting with the dead
- Alomancy: Reading patterns of salt thrown in the air and cast on the floor
- Apantomancy: Interpreting the meeting of encounters with animals
- Astral Projection: Out of body travel
- Aura Reading: Interpreting the auric field
- Automatic Writing: Writing a message from an outside intelligence through the subconscious mind
- Bibliomancy: Interpreting a passage from a book chosen at random
- Catoptromancy: Telling fortunes with a mirror
- Channeling: Delivering a message from an outside intelligence that enters the body of the interpreter
- Chirmancy: Palmistry – Divination from the lines of the hand
- Clairalience: Ability to smell that which is not present
- Clairaudience: Ability to hear events
- Claircognizant: The sense of clear knowing
- Clairempathy: Sensing other's emotions
- Clairgustance: Ability to taste that which is not present
- Clairsentience: Ability to sense other's feelings or senses
- Clairtangecy / Clairsensitivity: Ability to read energy from objects
- Clairvoyance: Psychically see nonphysical realities
- Cleromancy: Divination through casting stones, bones or dice
- Crystallomancy: Seeing the future through a crystal ball
- Deja vu: Sensing events have already happened
- Demonomancy: Summoning demons to answer questions
- Divination: Using gifts to obtain answers
- Dowsing: Using an instrument to locate water, metals or other things underground
- Dream Interpretation: Interpreting the meaning of dreams
- Empathy: Sensing other's feelings, illnesses, sensations, knowledge and more
- Exorcism: releasing of negative entities
- Feng Shui: Manipulating the environment to bring about certain outcomes
- Gyromancy: Divination by perimeters with an alphabet (ouija board)
- Healing: Creating more wholeness within another
- Horoscopy: Astrology
- Hydromancy: Divination through observing water
- Hypnosis: Creation of a trance state for healing or answers
- I Ching: Ancient Chinese form of divination
- Intuition: Catch all term for managed use of psychic abilities
- Levitation: Floating the body or objects
- Libanomancy: Interpreting shapes in smoke
- Mediumship: Serving as a conduit for other worldly beings
- Megagnomy: Ability to use an ability during a hypnotic state
- Oculomancy: Divination through looking into eyes
- Past-Life Regression: Using a meditative state to explore past lives
- Precognition: Ability to foretell the future
- Prophecy: Knowledge of divine will
- Psychometry: Gaining knowledge through touching objects
- Pyrokenisis: Sparking fire with the mind
- Scrying: Using an object to see psychically
- Tarot Reading: Use of tarot cards to prophesize
- Tasseography: Reading tea leaves or coffee grains
- Telekenesis: Moving objects without touching them
- Telepathy: Hearing mind to mind information
- Transfiguration: Superimposition of a face on a medium
- Voodoo: Practices from the Voodoo religion
- Xenoglossy: Speaking a language that is not one's own
Ending Thoughts
Siddhis are a tall claim, especially the ones that are bigger than life - defy aging or even death. Why? Because all these sages, yogis and ascendant masters aged and died. Are siddhis real? From a personal perspective, yes, they do exist to a point where they are still within human range - increased articulation, clearer-faster-sharper-expansive thinking, resilience to disease, delayed aging, increased strength, synchronicities, exorcising your demons, etc. These enhancements come with deepened practice. But I haven't met anyone with superhuman abilities. Even if there are those who possess these magical gifts, I don't think they'd like to come out in the open. For one thing, it diverts their practice because public adulation will be intoxicating. Secondly, people regard them as not-normal - they lose their boy-next-door accessibility. People will hound them for whatever needs they have.
Personally, I toyed with the idea of having these supernatural gifts. But what would I do with them? If I had the ability to reverse Çovid, would I? Perhaps not. I see these things as karmic episodes that need to happen for a purpose beyond my limited comprehension. Who am I to get in the way?
Candidly though, if I do develop a siddhi, I would like it to be an animadi (to be infinitely small) so I can take the size of a photon. Another siddhi I'd like is prapti (traveling at the speed of thought) so I can travel at the speed of light, like that of a photon. This is my burning desire. Why? Because photons are quantum-sized particles traveling at the speed of light. It's not so much the speed per se, but how time and space warp at that speed. Time slows down (time dilation) as you near the speed of light. But at the speed of light, time itself stops - you are not leaving the past behind and you are not approaching the future. Both past and future are contained in the present. Science claims that all 3 elements of time are a singularity. But our minds cannot comprehend that because we experience time as linear - leaving the past, experiencing the present and heading into the future. But as a photon, you actually experience the singularity of time. I find this more fascinating than walking on water. And if I ever develop that siddhi, my lips will be sealed.
--- Gigit (TheLoneRider)
YOGA by Gigit
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Sources
- yolasite - The Secret Natural Abililties of Man
Ayn 
Vinyasa Krama by Srivatsa Ramaswami
(Oct 1, 2020)
Git 🙏🙏🙏 coincidentally, we're in Siddhasana in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika textual immersion course that I'm taking. Although, in the yoga sutras commentaries, it is specifically mentioned that LSD and weed are not part of the herbs that induce siddhis. And also one of my favorite Sutras Samadhisiddhirisvarapranidhanat (2.45) and the greatest Siddhi of all - knowing the true nature of the self. Another awesome fact-based article Git! As always! 🙏🙏🙏🙏 I love it!
Also, it is said that Patanjali wrote this chapter to warn yogis not to stop there because at that time a lot of them were blinded by these achievements and tend to stop here and lose sight of the real goal. Some even used these powers for personal/material gain.
TheLoneRider
(Oct 1, 2020) So true, that's why I mentioned, "For one thing, it (flaunting their siddhis) diverts their practice because public adulation will be intoxicating." I've seen this many times in every facet of achievement. e.g. - wall climbers once they hear the applause of an audience, stop pushing the envelope because they become satiated with public adulation (why push any further when I am already 'worshipped'?). Succumbing to your siddhi is to put a cap in your practice.
Ayn
(Oct 1, 2020) Git let me know when you become a photon and don't forget to write the instructions on how to get there. Hahahaha
Jessie 
Iyengar Yoga Teacher
(Oct 1, 2020) Interesting
Natascha 
Awareness - the energy is inside
(Oct 1, 2020) Oh yes!!!!
Leave a comment?
(Sep 30, 2020) Like a revolving door, Chiang Mai's peoplescape continues to revolve bringing-in new arrivals while those who were stranded were finally able to leave. This begins a new chapter in the mosaic making up the faces that adorn Chiang Mai....more »»
(Nov 6, 2020) This online Yoga for Core Development class selects asanas designed for the core and also includes established gym core practices. They are fused together with pranayama and meditation to bring about a fortified core (abs, obliques and lower back muscles), a state of stillness and increased awareness.....more »»
Chiang Mai, Thailand

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

MOTORBIKE RENTAL
Tawan Bike - motorcycle rental | +66 91 635 2863 | Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
USEFUL INFORMATION
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
- North Gate Pub - at Chang Phueg Gate, great Tuesday jam session, Blues on Sundays by the 11pm band
- Taphae East - 88 Thapae Rd. (just north of Night Bazaar). Fridays at 9:30pm by Chiang Mai Blues Band
- Boy Blues Bar - at the Night Bazaar. Mondays at 9:30pm is open mic
Chiang Mai Cost Index
- Chiang beer
- 1 hour drop-in yoga session
- one hour Thai body massage at WAYA Massage (highly recommended)
- noodle soup with meat
- coffee
- pad thai
- wash-only laundry
- wash+iron laundry
- dorm bed/night
- fan room/night
- internet cafe/hour
- Movies Sat-Sun and public holidays
- Movies weekdays
- Movies Wednesdays (movie discount day)
- 1/2 day Thai cooking lessons
- 1 full day Thai cooking lessons
- Muay Thai boxing ticket
- starting room rate at the luxury hotel, Nawa Sheeva (highly recommended)
Transportation
- bus, Chiang Mai to Bangkok
- bus, Chiang Mai to Pai
- bus, Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang
- slow boat, Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang
- bus, Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, 3-4 hours
- Green VIP bus, Chiang Mai to Mae Sai (Thai border town for visa run to Tachileik, Myanmar)
- bicycle rental, 24 hours
- motorbike rental, 24 hours
- #51 sleeping train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
- #7 a/c train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
- red taxi fare from point to point
- red taxi fare from train terminal to city
Tours
- full day elephant sanctuary
- Chiang Rai one-day tour
- mountain biking scenic ride
How to Get to Chiang Mai from Bangkok 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)
- take the MRT train to Bang Sue Station. Take the #1 Exit to the north provincial trains
- 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.
- 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
Bus from Loei to Chiang Mai
- From Loei town center, take a tuk-tuk ride to the bus station, B30. There is only one bus station.
- 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.
- 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)
- Final bus stop is at the Red Bus Arcade, Chiang Mai, 9 hour-trip, arriving 6am (from 9pm Loei departure).
- 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
- The Queen has Arrived Feb 25, 2021
- Breaking the 5-Minute Breath-hold Barrier Feb 25, 2021
- Kirtan with Chiang Mai's Khun Thai Seekers Feb 7, 2021
- Breaking the 4-minute Breath-hold Feb 7, 2021
- Pranayama Primer Feb 2, 2021
- The Silent Killer is Baaack! Jan 12, 2021
- Learning the Thai Language Jan 9, 2021
- 2020: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2020
- Reversing/Slowing Down the Aging Process Dec 30, 2020
- Hike to Huay Keaw Waterfall Dec 20, 2020
- Yoga Mat Dec 19, 2020
- Hiking to Wat Pha Lat along the Monk's Trail Dec 19, 2020
- Are You Psycho? Dec 9, 2020
- Muffin Man Dec 8, 2020
- Polyamory Dec 4, 2020
- The Wim Hof Ice Bath Dec 3, 2020
- RSVP Nov 25, 2020
- High Intensity Interval Yoga (Yoga + HIIT) Nov 14, 2020
- Cleansing the Nadis (Energy Pathway) Nov 13, 2020
- Yoga for a 360-degree Core Nov 6, 2020
- Edward Witten: 'the smartest living physicist' Nov 4, 2020
- Srinivasa Ramanujan: Mathematician of the Divine Oct 27, 2020
- Bashar as Channeled by Darryl Anka Oct 26, 2020
- Vinyasa Krama and Ashtanga Yoga with Aida Yoga Oct 18, 2020
- Deepak Chopra: author, lecturer, healer Oct 12, 2020
- Facebook Friends Oct 1, 2020
- Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug-Sep 2020 Sep 30, 2020
- Siddhis (yogic super powers) Sep 30, 2020
- Learning the Import/Export Trade Sep 4, 2020
- Music and Magic at Justin's Birthday Bash Sep 3, 2020
- Biggest Stone in his Shoe Sep 1, 2020
- Abandoned Aug 25, 2020
- Intelligent Romantic Break-up Aug 25, 2020
- Dad-Zoned Aug 18, 2020
- Public Display of Affection Aug 9, 2020
- Gabriella's Birthday Bash at Mothership Resort Aug 8-9, 2020
- Shifting Peoplescape of Chiang Mai July 31, 2020
- Yoga Class for Strength and Muscle Jul 30, 2020
- Yoga Class for Optimum Digestion July 29, 2020
- Yoga Class for Healthy Eyes Jul 27, 2020
- Hippie Night at Nawa Saraan Healing Space July 24, 2020
- The Podcast Series: Alan "Heart Math" Strydom Jul 17, 2020
- Yoga Class to move Prana Vayu (energy) July 11-12, 2020
- Coming Back to Chiang Mai Jun 29, 2020
- Goodbye Chiang Mai Jan 23, 2020
- Prasnopanishad: Understanding Prana Jan 17, 2020
- Hiking the Monk's Trail Jan 15, 2020
- Chaturanga Jan 10, 2020
- You Spooned Me Jan 3, 2020
- 2019: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2019
- Friends, Coffeemates and Breadmates (Dec 2019) Dec 31, 2019
- Visiting Mae Sot Dec 27-30, 2019
- Let's Make it About You - an Epiphany Dec 17, 2019
- Shut-Up! Dec 7, 2019
- Roasted Red Bell Pepper Puree Dec 3, 2019
- Coffeemates and Breadmates (Nov 2019) Nov 30, 2019
- Bhujangini Mudra Nov 25, 2019
- Mathangini Mudra Nov 24, 2019
- Kaka Mudra Nov 23, 2019
- Pasini Mudra Nov 20, 2019
- Aswini Mudra Nov 18, 2019
- Sambhavi Mudra Nov 16, 2019
- Manduka Mudra Nov 15, 2019
- Tataka Mudra Nov 14, 2019
- Sakti Calana Mudra Nov 10, 2019
- Vajroli Mudra Nov 9, 2019
- Coffeemates and Breadmates (Oct 2019) Oct to Nov 5, 2019
- Yoni Mudra Nov 1, 2019
- Viparita Karani Mudra Oct 31, 2019
- Khecari Mudra Oct 30, 2019
- Mahadeva Mudra Oct 28, 2019
- Sacred Cacao - Chakra Dance Journey Oct 26, 2019
- Partner Healing with Natascha Oct 24, 2019
- Maha Bandha Mudra Oct 24, 2019
- Point-Of-Failure Birthday Workout Oct 22, 2019
- Mula Bandha Mudra Oct 21, 2019
- Hugfest at Thapae Gate, Chiang Mai Oct 19, 2019
- Anushasan Mudra Oct 18, 2019
- Ling Mudra Oct 17, 2019
- Jalandhara Bandha Mudra Oct 15, 2019
- Learning Thai with Cee Oct 13, 2019
- Uddiyana Bandha Mudra Oct 10, 2019
- Nabho Mudra Oct 9, 2019
- Maha Mudra Oct 7, 2019
- 20 Essential Mudras by T. Krishnamacharya Oct. 6, 2019
- Mindfulness Gong Bath by Vee (Veerayuth Pongsiri) Oct 3, 2019
- Cuddle Party by Abundant Love CM Oct 1, 2019
- Vayu Mudra Oct 1, 2019
- Visa-Run to Tachileik, Myanmar Sep 28, 2019
- Sankalpa Mudra Sep 27, 2019
- Surya Pradarshini Mudra Sep 26, 2019
- Eye-Gazing at Heart Space Sep 20, 2019
- Prana Vayu (Pranic Wind) Sep 20, 2019
- 2-Week Yoga Challenge by Agnese Erba Sep 17, 2019
- The Mudra Project Sep 13, 2019
- Sunday Vinyasa Flow with Marina Forster Sep 8, 2019
- Shamanic Breathwork by Rachel Constantino Sep 4, 2019
- The Conscious Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Aug 31, 2019
- Of Winos and Yogis Aug 26, 2019
- The 9 Jhanas of Buddha Aug 22, 2019
- Full Moon Ceremony at Heart Space Aug 15, 2019
- Yin Yoga - Water Element by Martina Barabas Aug 15, 2019
- Hatha Mix Yoga with Christin Aug 13, 2019
- Boy Blues Bar Rocks Chiang Mai Aug 5, 2019
- Back to my Beloved Chiang Mai Aug 1, 2019
- Kaleidoscope of Chiang Mai's Peoplescape July 27, 2019
- Secret Sunrise: Nelson Mandela International Day July 17, 2019
- Farewell Picnic with Alan and Nicola July 15, 2019
- Secret Sunrise: Water July 3, 2019
- Hotel Review: Arun Suite June 27, 2019
- Bruce Lipton: Epigentics to Transcend Genes June 24, 2019
- Optimizing Life thru Heart Math May 8, 15 and 22, 2019
- Connective Cacao and Sound Journey June 12, 2019
- Chiangmai BLUES June 6, 2019
- Hatha Slow Flow with Neil Jefferson June 3, 2019
- Meditating with One Million Meditators Movement June 1, 2019
- Vinyasa Happy Flow Series by Vaida May 31, 2019
- Muay Thai at the Chiang Mai Boxing Stadium May 30, 2019
- Yoga Flow Through the 7 Chakras by Sabrina Pilz May 30, 2019
- The Outsiders (people you need to push out of your sacred circle) May 31, 2019
- Fascinating Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 22, 2019
- World Meditation Day at Heart Space May 21, 2019
- Abs Yoga by Gigit May 12, 2019
- Kundalini and Vinyasa Yoga with Nicola Symons May 10, 2019
- Secret Sunrise Interactive Dance May 9, 2019
- Tok Sen Massage from Ying May 8, 2019
- Bruschetta: Nawa Saraan Style Apr 22, 2019
- Thai Cooking at Pra Nang Thai Cookery School Apr 20, 2019
- Bonding with the Elephants in Chiang Mai Apr 11, 2019
- Ziplining in Chiang Mai with Eagle Track Zipline Apr 10, 2019
- Getting Thai Massage from Chiang Mai's Best (Lar Thanakrit Khamtanong) Mar 21, 2019
- Being the Soul of Nawa Saraan Hotel Mar 18, 2019
- Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24 - Mar 13, 2019
- Curing Cancer with Yoga? Feb 21, 2019
- International Training Massage School (ITM): Level 1 Feb 11-15, 2019
- Sandesch Album Launch by Christoph Joerg Feb 13, 2019
- Meditation in a Sensory Deprivation Tank at Float Chiang Mai Jan 29, 2019
- Reiki Share at the Mastermind Brain Spa Jan 26, 2019
- Resuming Life in Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019
- 4 Days in Chiang Mai at Nawa Saraan Hotel Jan 2-6, 2019
- Mike Chong Aug 8, 2018
- An Intimate Conversation with my Universe in Chiang Mai Aug 8, 2018
- Kneaded and Pampered at Zira Spa Aug 4, 2018
- Savoring a Baht 3,500 Birds Nest Soup at Natural Bird Nest by Burapa Aug 3, 2018
- Yoga Exploration at The Yoga Tree with Gernot Aug 1, 2018
- Laughter Yoga with Saffiya Arnous July 31, 2018
- Yoga with Adam at Hidden House Yoga, Chiang Mai July 29, 2018
- 2 Weeks in Chiang Mai July 25 - Aug 7, 2018
- A First Timer in Chiang Mai Apr 9-23, 2016
- Chiang Mai's Amazing Peoplescape Apr 9-23, 2016
- Dance Mandala in Chiang Mai at The Yoga Tree Apr 19, 2016
- Songkran Waterfight Festival in Chiang Mai Apr 13-15, 2016
- Border Crossing from Siem Reap (Cambodia) to Bangkok (Thailand) to Chiang Mai April 9-10, 2016
How to Get a 60-Day Thai Tourist Visa and then Extend by another 30 Days
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.
- 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
- 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!
- 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.
- 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
- 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
- when your number is called, your picture will be taken. Then go back to your seat. They will call you again.
- when they call you again, they'll give you your passport with your extended visa. That's it!
- when there are no lines, the whole process can take only 10 minutes
General Travel Tips
- 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.)
- 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
- 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.
- 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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