Jivamukti Yoga: Living Liberation
This morning I practiced in class with David Life and Sharon Gannon. As founders of Jivamukti Yoga they are well-known for their unique medthod of practice which focuses on teaching and practicing yoga as a means to enlightenment.
They are very earth-centered and speak of getting and giving energy to the earth through the practice of asana, and they are very outspoken on the importance of vegetarian diets and the need to respect all creatures.
The class opened and ended with chanting which brought us into a place of community and concious intention.
Here are the chants...
The chants:
Lokah Samasta Sukhino BhavantuMay all beings everywhere be happy and free and may the thoughts and actions of my own life contribute in some way to that happiness and to that freedom for all.
Sat-Sangatve Nissangatvam, Nissangatve Nirmohatvam,
Nirmohatve Nishcala-Tattvam, Nishcala-Tattve Jivanmukthih,
Bhaja Govindam Bhaja Govindam, Bhaja Govindam Mudha-MateGood and virtuous company gives rise to non-attachment. From non-attachment comes freedom from delusion. With freedom from delusion, one feels the changeless reality. Experiencing that changeless reality, one attains liberation in this life. I-AM is the ocean of awareness. Realizing this, one feels, "I am not the body and mind, although I have a body and mind." Realize Govinda, realize govinda, realize govinda in your heart O wise one! (fr. Shankaracharya, Carpatapanjarika) - Translation by Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati
