Finding Your Best Yoga Practice - JivamuktiJivamukti was developed by Sharon Gannon and David Life, two legends in the New York Yoga scene having taught continuously since 1989 out of their NYC based studio. Their meeting has become downtown legend: Sharon was a member of a band, and David owned the famous Life Café (also the spot where Jonathan Larson wrote the award winning musical Rent) in the East Village that also showcased music, poetry and art. You can say the rest is history. Sharon and David had both been studying yoga independently and before meeting one another, but together that have not only developed a style, but a following and a lifestyle.

The word Jivamukti in Sanskrit means “liberation while living…” This style of Hatha Yoga is based on the principles of bhakti yoga (devotion) and ahimsa (non-violence) which is deeply embedded into the structure of the style.  The Jivamukti practice aligns the physical, spiritual and psychological aspects of yoga while staying grounded in traditional yogic philosophy.

What is the style/class like?

A Jivamukti class is intense - a physical and vigorous practice, but steeped in the traditions. Class usually starts with chanting, deep listening (the teacher usually discusses an issue, or something from the Yoga Sutras), followed by asanas (movement/postures) supported by great music, followed by deep relaxation and meditation. You will work hard in a Jivamukti class, but you will leave uplifted and well, liberated - or at least on the road to it.

Personal insight and who might benefit from this style:

Jivamukti, Ashtanga and Iyengar are truly my first loves in yoga. Having lived in the East Village for 7 years before moving Uptown, Jivamukti on Lafayette Street was my first spiritual home. It’s there that I got in touch with the more sacred side of yoga and also where I pushed myself the most. I still practice there, but do feel that the huge aspect of non-violence that Sharon and David are so passionate about, swayed me from going deeper there or doing my teacher training there. I still eat meat on occasion and always felt a little self-conscious about my meat eating status while at Jivamukti. But that could just be me.  You certainly don’t have to be a vegetarian to practice there, but I wouldn’t shout out in the locker room post class, “Hey let’s go to Fat Burger.” You might get some horrified glances.

Also, if you’re new to Jivamukit, I urge you to take a beginner’s class, even if you practice yoga. The only other level is open and that gets all levels.  Because Jivamukti is popular, the class sizes tend to be large, thus I’ve never got a lot of adjustments in class.  BUT, if you are looking for a true yogic experience every step of the way, with a real physical workout,  Jivamukti might be the style for you.

Additional Information:

Written by:  Michelle Barge


Posted under: Fitness, Spirituality, Yoga
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