Jivanmukti yoga is a spiritual practice that aims to attain liberation while still living in the world. The term “jivanmukti” means “liberated while alive” and refers to the state of being free from the cycle of birth and death, while still living in a physical body.
This path of yoga emphasizes the cultivation of self-awareness, self-realization, and service to others. It involves the integration of yoga practices such as asana (physical postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), meditation, and study of spiritual texts into daily life.
The goal of jivanmukti yoga is to attain a state of inner freedom and contentment that is not dependent on external circumstances. It encourages practitioners to live in a way that is compassionate, non-judgmental, and mindful, with an awareness of the interconnectedness of all things.
In jivanmukti yoga, the teacher plays an important role in guiding the student on their path of self-discovery and liberation. The teacher provides instruction and support, but ultimately it is up to the student to do the work of self-transformation and to cultivate the qualities of devotion, humility, and self-awareness that are necessary for liberation.
Jivanmukti yoga draws on the teachings of the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and other spiritual texts of the Indian tradition. It has been popularized by teachers such as Sharon Gannon and David Life, who founded the Jivamukti Yoga method, which incorporates elements of jivanmukti yoga along with physical asana practice, chanting, and spiritual teachings.