Jivamjkti Yoga: What can you expect from a class
Of the many different branches in the yoga tree, Jivamjkti Yoga may well be one of the lesser understood types of class. Created in 1984 by David Life and Sharon Gannon, it has gained a huge amount of popularity in a short space of time, and has spread worldwide – but what exactly is it, and what should you expect from a Jivamukti yoga class?
It is one of the most powerful and structured practices for experiencing yoga. As well as an intense physical asana practice, it incorporates many spiritual aspects of yoga – making it both physically and emotionally challenging and stimulating.
A Jivamukti session encompasses the 5 core tenets of the Jivamukti practice. From learning more about ancient scripture (Shastra), to offering your intent of devotion (Bhakti), the practice also focuses on practising kindness to others and yourself (ahimsa). We especially love the focus on music (nada) and meditation (dhyana).
What many love about Jivamukti yoga is the richness of the practice. Many teachers start their practice with a scripture of choice, demonstrated in a form of chanting and reading. Even if you are not used to chanting, it is a great way to experience by being in a room of people who are comfortable doing so. Use it as a chance to immerse yourself in the vibes of music and let go a little.
After the initial opening, a class will then move on to warming up to an energetic and stimulating flow of sequences. A Jivamukti sequence is a really great mix of energies – it’s less str[……]