What Is Jivamukti Yoga? Origins, Philosophy & Practice

If you have been searching for a yoga style that goes beyond the physical and taps into something deeper, Jivamukti Yoga might be what you are looking for. Known for its strong physical practice, spiritual teachings, and ethical focus, Jivamukti offers a well-rounded experience for the body, mind, and heart.

A Brief History of Jivamukti Yoga

Jivamukti Yoga was founded in 1984 by Sharon Gannon and David Life in New York City. The name Jivamukti comes from the Sanskrit term Jivanmuktih, which means “liberation while living.” The method combines an intense, vinyasa-style asana practice with music, chanting, meditation, and scriptural study.

Influenced by their studies with teachers like Swami Nirmalananda and Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, Gannon and Life created a system that encourages practitioners not only to teach and embody the postures but also to live consciously, ethically, and compassionately.

Jivamukti classes reflect this through their integrated approach to movement, sound, and philosophy.

If you are looking for a broader overview of this style’s structure, check out the official website of Jivamukti Yoga.

Key Principles of the Practice

Jivamukti Yoga is structured around five core tenets that guide both the teaching and the lifestyle of the practice, namely, Ahimsa (Non-violence), Bhakti (Devotion), Dhyana (Meditation), Nada (Sound), and Shastra (Scripture).

The special blend of physical and philosophical elements makes Jivamukti unique among modern yoga styles. For yoga teachers seeking more insights into multi-dimensional practice styles, our guide on how to become a yoga teacher offers additional context.

What to Expect in a Class

A typical Jivamukti Yoga class includes a vigorous asana sequence, often choreographed to music, alongside chanting, hands-on adjustments, and spiritual teachings. Teachers create an immersive experience designed to challenge the body while nurturing self-awareness.

New instructors or those exploring Jivamukti may find elements like Sanskrit chanting or scripture readings unfamiliar. However, these aspects are essential for cultivating a deeper connection to the style’s philosophy and enriching your teaching approach.

If you are already teaching or looking to expand your offerings, you can view our complete list of covered modalities to see how Jivamukti fits into your insured scope of practice.

Protecting Your Practice With NACAMS

Jivamukti Yoga instructors often teach physically demanding sequences and may offer hands-on assistance or lead emotionally charged discussions. That means protection is essential, not just for your peace of mind but also to maintain a secure and professional environment.

At NACAMS, the yoga instructor insurance that we provide covers the realities of teaching styles like Jivamukti. Our all-inclusive policy includes everything from professional and general liability to identity theft protection, personal injury, and advertising injury, occurrence-form coverage valid in all 50 states, and instant proof of insurance upon joining.

Whether you are teaching in a studio, traveling to clients, or leading virtual sessions, our coverage follows your career.

To better understand how our policies support real-life yoga scenarios, visit our article on how to pick the right yoga teacher insurance.

Start Strong, Stay Supported

Jivamukti Yoga invites practitioners to explore both physical strength and spiritual depth. It challenges students to live with compassion, clarity, and integrity on and off the mat.

As you deepen your own practice or begin teaching others, NACAMS is here to offer support every step of the way.

Contact us today to help protect your teaching journey with insurance built for yoga professionals.

More Articles