jivan: individual soul; mukti: liberation
Jivamukti (pronounced Jee-va-mook-tee) means liberation in this lifetime The Jivamukti Yoga method was created by Sharon Gannon & David Life. It emphasizes enlightenment as the goal of the practice; a rigorous physical asana practice as the foundation; a serious but joyful adventure; living in a way that enhances the lives of others and the earth.

A Jivamukti yoga class involves an ever changing flow of postures (vinyasa) that is intended to challenge the student on many levels. Each class is based on the wisdom of ancient yogic scriptures and emphasizes the importance of practicing with an elevated intention. Chanting, meditation, and inspiring music are part of every class.

Jivamukti Yoga is based on five tenets:
1. Ahimsa: a non-violent lifestyle emphasizing ethical vegetarianism and animal rights.
2. Bhakti: devotion; acknowledging that God realization is the goal of all yoga practices.
3. Meditation: connecting to that eternal, unchanging reality within.
4. Nada Yoga: the development of a sound body and mind through deep listening.
5. Scripture: study of the ancient yogic teachings, including Sanskrit chanting.

"I have a body and mind, but I am not the body and mind." Shri Brahmanada Saraswati.
This is an essential lesson that yoga teaches us. Yogis use the body and the mind as tools to better understand their true nature. A consistent yoga practice creates a stronger and more flexible body, but the real goal is to liberate the spirit.

Yoga is not a religion, rather it is a spiritual practice that helps to recognize the oneness of all being. Through this method, we purify our bodies and minds so that we can approach all our relationships with greater awareness and compassion. The yoga practice brings us back to our natural state, which is true happiness, peace and eternal bliss.