Jivamukti yoga is the proprietary name of a form of yoga developed by David Life and Shannon Gannon in 1984. Unlike many styles of yoga, which emphasise the physical aspects of yoga (hatha yoga), Jivamukti yoga introduces students to the psychological and spiritual dimensions of yoga as well.
The ultimate aim of Jivamukti yoga is revealed in a translation of 'jivamukti'. A blending of two Sanskrit words, 'jivan' (life) and 'muktih' (liberation), the goal of the practice is to attain spiritual liberation while still incarnate. To this end, students are taught a fivefold process:
- Ancient Sanskrit scriptures are quoted and interpreted as part of the training. These include Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, the Bhagavad Gita, The Upanishads and and the classic Hatha Yoga Pradapika.
- Bhakti (devotion): Students of Jivamukti yoga are encouraged to understand and appreciate the common basis of all religions. Devotional chanting and the creation of a devotional atmosphere are also part of bhakti yoga.
- Ahimsa: Usually translated as 'non-violence', Jivamukti yoga encourages a vegan diet, an appreciation of animal rights and undertaking social and political action that promotes peace.
- Nada yoga is the yoga of sound. A vital part of hatha yoga, nada includes kirtan (chanting), listening to devotional music and other practices designed to uplift the spirit.
- Meditation is practiced at the close of every hatha yoga session and its importance as an indispensable part of yoga is emphasised.
What to Expect at a Jivamukti Yoga Class
Jivamukti yoga classes are structured so that students of all levels of experience and fitness can benefit from them. Beginners classes are offered for those who don't know anything about yoga or feel they may not be fit enough to perform the asanas (postures). Open classes, too, cater to students of all levels of experience and ability. "Jivamukti Basics" classes are conducted weekly that allow both new and experienced students who want to work on their technique. In addition to these more general classes, a variety of specialised classes are also conducted regularly. Some of these include:
- Pregnancy yoga
- Yoga for mothers and their children
- Kundalini yoga is a special form of yoga for raising spiritual energy
- Yin yoga helps restore flexibility
- Restorative yoga is designed to assist with recovery from injury
Not all of these classes may be available at all Jivamukti yoga centres. Check with your local school for details about their offerings.
Is Jivamukti Yoga Right for Me?
Jivamukti yoga instructors in Australia have all undergone intensive training and are qualified to teach the unique Jivamukti style of yoga. Many students who feel that something is missing from their casual hatha yoga practice turn to Jivamukti yoga to learn the deeper aspects of yoga. The best way to find out if Jivamukti yoga is right for you is to try it. If it resonates with you, you will know. If you want to try something different, try some of the other yoga classes listed here on Natural Therapy Pages. There are many to choose from and they all have one thing in common: the benefits of yoga for health and well being.
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