Why I Fall In Love With Jivamukti Yoga Method

By Jimi Lanronle

Jivamukti yoga is a method of yoga which was created by David Life and Sharon Gannon in 1984, and which reintegrates the physical, philosophical and spiritual aspects of yoga. Jivamukti is recognized at the international level as one of the main yoga practices together with Bikram, Kundalini, Viniyoga, Iyengar, Ashtanga, Integral and Kripalu. In the western world the rather physical part of yoga is mainly emphasized. More and more people are taking yoga classes in the attempt to make their bodies firmer and fitter.

Yet, lots of practitioners come to realize that what may seem a very strenuous physical workout is in fact a way to the inner self that opens one towards spirituality. David Life and Sharon Gannon took up teaching because they were eager to communicate the fact that yoga is more than just some physical exercises, but a path to enlightenment and a spiritual practice. Jivamukti yoga thus becomes a living translation of the Indian system of yoga for the western minds so that the practice doesn't remain out of reach. Among the elements emphasized by Jivamukti yoga we can count meditation, devotional chanting or the study of the ancient texts.

The meaning of the word Jivamukti (pronounced Jee-va-mook-tee) can be translated as follows: Jiva means individual soul and mukti means liberation. The word is derived from the Sanskrit jivanmuktih, which translates liberation in this life. The name Jivamukti yoga reflects the fact that it is possible to enjoy positive achievements and fulfillment while also progress spiritually, perhaps even attaining liberation while living.

There are five tenets of Jivamukti yoga which must be considered before taking into account the practice of it. A first tenet is the study of Sanskrit chanting and of ancient yoga traditions. The second one is the acknowledgment that universal consciousness is the goal of all yoga practices, known under the name of Bhakti. The third tenet is Ahimsa, that is a compassionate, peaceful life-style, which stresses the importance of ethical vegetarianism.

Nada comes forth, as the creation of a sound mind in a sound both through deep listening. The last tenet of Jivamukti yoga, although not the least, is meditation, that paves the way to the ever-lasting reality inside of us. Keep in mind that Jivamukti yoga classes are pretty intense, so you'd better be prepared for the challenge. Although it may seem difficult, the great fame of Jivamukti yoga in the United States is hard to pass unnoticed; there is a Jivamukti yoga School in New York, and there are experienced instructors teaching it all over the country. - 31856

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