The Jivamukti (pronounced jee-va-mook-tee) Yoga Detroit Center in Lake Orion desires to give back more than it receives. One example of their generosity is the free community class held on Saturdays.
Remember the steer that escaped the slaughterhouse last winter and ran the streets of Detroit? He, Jefferson, now resides at Sasha Farm in retirement with others like him. Sasha Farm is a sanctuary that allows unwanted animals to live out their lives in a safe haven.
The Jivamukti Center, with the aid of the students and teachers, continues to donate to Sasha Farm, as well as K-9 Stray Rescue and other humane causes.
The next project on their list is Love’s Harvest, a healthy choice food pantry, for those in need.
You might ask what does all of this have to do with Yoga? Jivamukti Yoga Director Phyllis Swalwell says “Jivamukti Yoga is a style of yoga that embraces the philosophy of yoga, and keeps it pure.
“Yoga is not a new fad, it is over 5,000 years old, and it is much more than just looking good or being calm,” Swalwell says. “Yoga is a practice that can bring harmony, not only in your life, but to the way you interact with everyone, all beings.”
The name Jivamukti means liberation while living, and that is its aim. To find true joy, you must first find it within yourself, as it is, and has and will always be there. You just have to learn how to reach it, Swalwell says.
The Open level Jivamukti class challenges you and teaches you how to use the breath to keep equanimity. When your life gets turned upside down, outside of the classroom, you can use this practice to remain calm and joyful.
A Jivamukti Yoga class involves an ever-changing flow of postures (vinyasa) that is intended to challenge you on many levels. Each class revolves around a theme, based on ancient wisdom, and emphasizes the importance of practicing with an elevated intention.
Chanting, meditation and inspiring music are a part of every class.
Jivamukti Yoga Detroit is Swalwell’s first yoga center, and she chose Lake Orion because of the sense of community, and its warmth.
The center opened on November 15th, and offers classes to all levels, beginner through advanced practitioners.
“Our oldest student is in her 70’s,” Swalwell says.
When you enter the center you are warmly greeted at the reception area by a smile behind the desk. As you pass the fountain, walking through the lounge, the vibrant yet soothing colors set the yogic atmosphere.
The rich-colored practice room is large, but embracing and able to fit 5 to 70 students with comfort.
Jivamukti Yoga Detroit has walk-in classes and also has class packs. Your first class is free, regardless of what time or day you take your first class.
Starting soon, Jivamukti Yoga Detroit will offer prenatal, as well as a class for moms and their babies, and children’s classes.
Jivamukti Yoga Detroit’s class schedule runs seven days a week, with classes offered morning, afternoon and evening.
Among Jivamukti classes there are Ashtanga and Kripalu classes offered. Jivamukti Yoga Detroit has eight certified yoga teachers, and Swalwell wants there to be a class or teacher for every person.
“It is important to be versatile, people have different reasons for coming, and we want to be here for them,” she says.
Jivamukti Yoga is located at 203 N. Park Boulevard (Lapeer Road), near All-Star Video, in Lake Orion. The phone number is (248) 814-8522. Their website is www.jivamukti-detroit.com.