Jivamukti yoga (literally the “yoga of liberation of the soul”) was developed in New York in 1984 by Sharon Gannon and David Life. They are a couple and actually come from the artist and music scene. They were both students of Pattabhi Jois (1915-2009) (among other yoga experiences). They are strongly committed to animal welfare and vegetarian nutrition, which is an integral part of their yoga message. They themselves are strict vegans and want to contribute to ahimsa, peace in the world. They like to demonstrate their principle through social activism.
Because of these personalities, Jivamukti Yoga is “hot, hip & holy” – as David Life himself describes his yoga scene. Unconventional, cool and right at the heart of the zeitgeist, it is no coincidence that they have many “cool” followers.
Here is an impression of both of them in the interview, as well as their teaching style, which will be explained below:
The practice:
Its origins in Ashtanga yoga are clearly recognizable. The vinyasa flow is combined with breathing and – quite unconventionally – loud music is played. The music is modern, anything you like to turn you on; it can also be traditional Indian music.
An exercise class begins with singing OM together. The warm-up consists of sun salutations, which are immediately accompanied by music. Then, in the main part of the class, a sequence of postures that merge into one another and are strongly reminiscent of the Ashtanga yoga movements. First standing postures, followed by forward and backward bends and side twists. The class ends with classic yoga postures, a final relaxation and meditative sitting.
The study of yogic scriptures, recitation of mantras and prayers, chanting and meditation play an important role.
This very sweaty and body-oriented yoga is therefore embedded in a certain philosophical background and is accompanied by social activism. It can be described as a representative of modern lifestyle yoga, in which a kind of attitude to life is propagated.
Continue to the next yoga style: Kundalini Yoga
