Created by David Life and Sharon Gannon, Jivamukti yoga is a yoga style that combines physical, spiritual and philosophical aspects of traditional yoga. Jivamukti is recognized at the international level as one of the main yoga practices together with Bikram, Kundalini, Viniyoga, Iyengar, Ashtanga, Integral and Kripalu. In the western world the rather physical part of yoga is mainly emphasized. More and more people start taking yoga classes in the attempt to make their bodies firmer and fitter. Yet, lots of practitioners come to realize that what may seem a very strenuous physical workout is in fact a way to the inner self that opens one towards spirituality. David Life and Sharon Gannon took up teaching because they felt the need to communicate the fact that yoga represents more than just a system of exercises, but a path to enlightenment and a spiritual practice. Jivamukti yoga thus becomes a relevant translation of the Indian system of yoga for the approach of the westerner mind so that it can be easier to grasp. Among the elements emphasized by Jivamukti yoga there are meditation, devotional chanting or the study of the ancient texts.

There are two possible translations for the term Jivamukti with jiva standing out for the soul individuality and mukti meaning freedom. The word is derived from the Sanskrit jivanmuktih, which translates liberation in this life. The name Jivamukti yoga indicates the fact that it is possible to enjoy positive achievements and fulfillment while also progress spiritually, perhaps even attaining liberation while living.

There are five tenets of Jivamukti yoga which must be considered before taking into account the practice of it. The first one is the study of the ancient yoga teaching including Sanskirt chanting. The second one is the acknowledgment that universal consciousness is the goal of all yoga practices, known under the name of Bhakti. The third tenet is Ahimsa, that urges for a non-violent, compassionate life-style, which stresses the importance of ethical vegetarianism. Nada comes forth, as the creation of a sound mind in a sound both through deep listening. The last tenet of Jivamukti yoga, but not the least, is meditation, the connection with the unchanging reality within. Another fact to be considered before taking on Jivamukti yoga is the fact that the classes tend to be quite physically intense. Although it may seem difficult, its success in the United States cannot pass unnoticed; there is a Jivamukti yoga School in New York, and there are experienced instructors teaching it all over the country.