JIVAMUKTI YOGA

Class style: Physically and mentally challenging class, vinyasa flow sequences, pranayama (breathing exercises), meditation, Sanskrit chanting, Yogic philosophy
Class length: 60-90 minutes
Class level: All ability levels welcome
Music: Yes
Temperature: Room temperature (non-heated class)

Jivamukti is a style of Vinyasa Yoga created by Sharon Gannon and David Life. The practice offers a path to self-knowledge and promotes compassion for all beings. Jivamukti unites the physical, philosophical and spiritual aspects of Yoga, inviting us to examine our connection with the Earth and all beings.

A Jivamukti class at Yogavenue is similar to our other Vinyasa Yoga classes but expect more of an emphasis on Yogic philosophy. The chanting of Sanskrit mantras is an important part of the practice and a lovely way to connect to fellow students. Don’t worry, you don’t need to be able to sing and if you’re not comfortable chanting you’re welcome to listen.

'Sthira sukham asanam' (The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, 2.46) is commonly translated as 'seated posture should be steady and joyful.' This concept is fundamental to the practice of Jivamukti Yoga. Sharon Gannon and David life, its founders, believe that the idea at the heart of the sutra can be applied to our day-to-day lives. Stating that “one’s relationship to others (asana) should be mutually beneficial and come from a steady (sthira) place of joy and happiness (sukham)”.

According to this idea, the practice of Yoga becomes much more than just a way to keep fit; it is a way to develop our relationship with other people, animals, plants - our planet and everything that exists on it. It helps us to see that we are not separate from other beings and to cultivate a sense of oneness with everything. Ultimately the sense of oneness that we can develop on our yoga mat becomes a guiding principle for our whole lives.

Jivamukti classes are practiced at room temperature and are 90 minutes long. All ability levels are welcome. Classes typically include vinyasa flow sequences, pranayama (breathing exercises), meditation, Sanskrit chanting, Yogic philosophy and time for deep relaxation at the end. Music or Nada Yoga is a fundamental part of the Jivamukti practice so expect a soundtrack to your class. Hands on assists may be offered but please do let the teacher know before or during the practice if you’re not comfortable receiving physical assists.

Click here to view our YV Summertown schedule