Class Review: Jivamukti Spiritual Warrior

Class: Jivamukti Spiritual Warrior
Class Location: Jivamukti Union Square
Instructor: Gina
Class Description: “This is a brisk, guided, led vinyasa class in which the teacher calls out the asanas and provides the breath count, but gives minimal instruction as to how to do the various asanas. The class offers a well-rounded practice as a set sequence that includes a warm-up, the setting of an elevated intention, chanting, surya namaskar, standing asanas, twists, balances, forward bending, backward bending and inversions, as well as relaxation and meditation, and is designed to be completed in one hour. Thus, it is suitable for those who have limited time to devote to a yoga practice, for those who are looking for a workout to “shape up” physically, and for those who are looking to include a robust asana practice in a manageable daily routine. Because it is a fixed sequence that is always the same, a student has the opportunity to progress to the level of mastery by committing to a consistent, steady, regular sadhana. The first few classes may seem overwhelming, but with time and steady practice, progress will inevitably come.

The Jivamukti Spiritual Warrior 1-hour sequence is a comprehensive yoga class that transforms, invigorates and energizes, while at the same time grounding and leading the student inward on an exploration of the deeper spiritual aspects of the self.” (from the Jivamukti website).

Reviewer: Stacey

Favorite things about the class:

1. I love that, whereas many yoga classes flow quickly through a series of poses, the spiritual warrior class holds less poses for counts of five or 10.
2. I love that each class is the same, and after just three I was able to practically flow through the sequence on my own, using the instructor’s verbal cues as a guide. By the tenth time, I felt like a pro.
3. I love that I feel as if my entire body has been stretched out by the end of class. It’s the PERFECT early morning class for beginning my day. It’s also perfect to take the day after a long run or a challenging workout.

Least favorite things about the class:

1. The meditation at the end is long. I know I’m supposed to focus and breathe, but sometimes I’m antsy and just want to leave.
2. There are 3 inversions, which I find particularly difficult to achieve. (Practice, practice practice, I suppose.)
3. That’s all, folks.

Overall class rating: 5 0ut of 5 stars

Additional Comments: Jivamukti melds the vigor of yoga poses with the deep relaxation that comes from holding a position for an extended period of time. The spiritual warrior class in particular is just an hour long, as opposed to the studio’s typical 90 minute classes. I find that it’s manageable and a great way to start the day. Because there are typically poses where you’re asked to lay on your abdomen, I’m inclined to use a blanket to support my core and hips. Others in the class opt for blocks, which seem to be helpful to some.

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