🕉️Intermediate

Jivamukti

Where physical practice meets philosophy, music and activism.

Sharon Gannon & David Life

1984 · New York City, USA

About Jivamukti

Jivamukti Yoga is a physically vigorous and spiritually-oriented style that integrates chanting, meditation, scripture reading and music with a challenging vinyasa practice. Each class follows a monthly focus theme drawn from yogic philosophy.

✓ Deep integration of yoga philosophy into daily life✓ Vibrant community and spiritual support✓ Develops ethical sensitivity and compassion✓ Creative, music-infused classes keep practice fresh✓ Strong intellectual and spiritual curriculum

Yoga Wheel Scores

🤸Flexibility

3/5

Vinyasa-based sequences develop functional flexibility with philosophical context.

⚡Strength

4/5

Dynamic flows build practical strength, though not the primary focus.

⚖️Balance

3/5

Balance postures are included within sequences but not specially emphasized.

🌬️Breath

3/5

Breath is linked carefully to movement; pranayama and chanting develop conscious respiratory control.

🧠Mind

4/5

Philosophy, music, chanting and ethical teaching make this the most spiritually rich yoga style.

History & Origins

Founder

Sharon Gannon & David Life

Period

1984

Origin

New York City, USA

Jivamukti was founded in New York City in 1984 by Sharon Gannon and David Life. Drawing from Ashtanga Vinyasa, their method added layers of Sanskrit chanting, yogic philosophy, music, and ethical veganism. The original Jivamukti Yoga School in Manhattan became a cultural landmark before closing in 2019, but the method continues globally through certified teachers.