Jivamukti, a Sanskrit word meaning "liberation while living," was developed by Sharon Gannon and David Life and combines a vigorous physical practice with an equally strong foundation in ancient spiritual traditions of Yoga. Its distinct style integrates the physical, psychological, and spiritual aspects of yoga practices into a modern lifestyle without losing sight of the ancient and universal goal of the practice - liberation. The Jivamukti Yoga practice provides a pragmatic and experientially oriented life philosophy, grounded in ethical precepts to guide inner and outer work, and an original, creative approach to living and being.

A Jivamukti Yoga class is a vigorous physical and spiritual practice that pushes beyond the limitations often imposed by the mind and incorporates chanting, asanas, music, meditation, and devotional practices. The five elements that form the foundation of each class are: scripture, bhakti (devotion to God), ahimsa (nonviolence and compassion), nada yoga (deep listening), and meditation (connection with the unchanging reality within).

Gannon and Life are cofounders of the Jivamukti Yoga Center in New York City and coauthors of Jivamukti Yoga: Practices for Liberating Body and Soul and The Art of Yoga. Gannon is an animal rights activist with a background in the performing arts. Life, also an artist, ran the Life Cafe in Manhattan for many years, a hot spot for music, art, and poetry. Both have studied yoga intensively with many masters.

For more information about Jivamukti Yoga, visit:
www.jivamuktiyoga.com/