Jivamukti Yoga: The 5 Tenets

Posted by Carolina on June 17, 2015

Jivamukti yoga is a method of practicing created by partners David Life and Sharon Gannon in 1984. It combines a vigorous style of practice with a focus on five main tenets, and includes a strong focus on compassion for all living beings, the environment, and animal rights.

 

IMG_1559

 

Interested in delving a little deeper to learn more about the 5 main tenets of Jivamukti? So were we! Take a look below to learn more about these fascinating principles:

The 5 Tenets

Shastra – The importance of learning and studying the ancient texts of yoga teachings, particularly in their original Sanskrit text. Four main texts focused on in Jivamukti yoga include the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Upanishads. These are considered to be some of the most influential and ancient yogic texts.

IMG_1556

David Life and Sharon Gannon

 

Bhakti – While Bhakti translates literally to “devotion to God”, in Jivamukti yoga this can take on a meaning that resonates with the yogi’s personal beliefs – whether it is devotion to a religion, one’s self-realization, your yoga practice, or simply love. The focus of Bhakti is a realization and devotion towards an intention or being higher than one’s own self – whatever that may mean to you.

 

gwyneth-paltrow-yoga

Actress Gwyneth Paltrow is one of many celebrity Jivamukti practitioners

 

Ahimsa – Compassion for all other living beings. This extends to animals, bugs, plantlife, and fellow humans. Non violence and kindness towards others is an extremely important part of the Jivamukti method, and Ahimsa represents that ideology.

 

Nada – The practice of focusing on sound. In Jivamukti yoga, Nada can be practiced through chanting, however it is also practiced by focusing on the sound of your instructor’s voice, music, or even focusing on the sound made by complete silence.

The theory of Nada says that everything in existence, including human beings, is composed of sound vibrations. Therefore, by listening and acknowledging these vibrations – referred to as Nada – one can gain the ability to hear Om, considered the soundless sound.

 

IMG_1557

 

Dhyana – Meditation. An integral part of Jivamukti yoga, meditation is included within each class as an opportunity to focus on breath, one’s inner self, and to be still.

 

IMG_1558

 

Just starting out on the journey of your yoga practice – Jivamukti or otherwise? We have a wide variety of props, mats, clothing, and more ideal for every practice. Come visit us today at barefootyoga.com

 

Posted under Health and Fitness, Meditation, Styles of Yoga, Yoga News

Leave a Comment

Name (required)

Email (required)

Website

Comments

More Blog Posts