Jivamukti Yoga is a modern and creative yoga style developed in 1984 by New York City-based dancer-musician-artists Sharon Gannon & David Life, drawing on their interpretations of traditional yogic techniques and philosophies which they studied with 3 great masters (Shri K. Pattabhi Jois, Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati, & Shri Swami Nirmalananda).

There are 5 main components that supplement each physically challenging asana class: Scripture (study of ancient Sanskrit texts), Bhakti (devotion & dedication to a higher, selfless purpose), Ahimsa (encouragement to live conscious lives of social, political, & environmental activism), Nada Yoga (inspiring music & chanting), and Meditation. Although yoga produces innumerable benefits, the highest goal and only true reason to practice is Enlightenment: liberation from the illusion of separation… Unconditional love & boundless joy! A ‘jivanmukta’ is a free soul, and we can inspire one another to realize this potential that lies in each of us right now.

In this 4-day intensive workshop intended for practitioners of all levels, (some previous experience with dynamic hatha yoga forms and/or a sense of adventure will be very helpful), we will explore this potential by practicing flowing and vigorous asana complemented by the elements mentioned above. In addition, we will do some kriyas (purification practices that get rid of the dirt that often obscures our divine nature) and pranayama (control and liberation of the life force, the breath). Each module will be a balanced class focusing on a different theme.

Module 1: Standing Poses & Balancing

April 11th 08:00-10:30

Connecting to the earth, discovering inner steadiness & joy despite external obstacles

Module 2: Forward Bends & Hip Openers

April 12th 08:00-10:30

Opening up to creativity, letting go of the past, healing intensive relationships

Module 3: Twisting & Backbends

April 18th 08:00-10:30

Accepting ourselves & forgiving others, moving into the future with grace, optimism & unconditional love

Module 4: Inversions

April 19th 08:00-10:30

Appreciating the universe from different points of view, equanimity even when the world turns upside down