Transforming Adversity: A Powerful Journey Through Injury and Recovery
Russell and I are having an eye-opening chat today on the Finding Harmony Podcast, with Jen René.
Jen's story is something else – she talked us through her journey of healing from a knee injury, and how it reshaped her yoga practice. We got into the nitty-gritty of balancing strength and flexibility, especially important for us women in yoga.
Russell, as always, was on point with his humor and insightful questions, making the conversation even more engaging. If you're into yoga, overcoming challenges, or just love a good comeback story, this episode with Jen is definitely for you!
We discuss:
- Jen René's extensive background in yoga and Pilates.
- The challenge of overcoming a severe knee injury and the recovery journey.
- Making Ashtanga Yoga accessible and inclusive for everyone.
- The integration of traditional and contemporary approaches in yoga practice.
- Jen’s dynamic and empathetic teaching style.
- Balancing the demands of yoga practice with everyday life responsibilities.
- The impact of physical injuries on mental and emotional well-being.
- Strategies for adapting yoga practice to different life stages and physical conditions.
Chapters: 00:01 Introduction and Welcome 00:21 Guest Introduction: Jen Renee 01:14 Special Upcoming Program Announcement 03:00 Contact Information and Program Details 03:56 Podcasting Mishaps and Apologies 04:36 Introduction to Guest Jen Renee 04:43 Jen Renee's Journey from East to West Coast 06:06 Jen's Early Yoga Experiences 06:46 Transition to Ashtanga Yoga 07:17 Starting a Mysore Program 07:38 Jen's First (and only) Trip to Mysore 21:52 Jen's Transition from Catholicism to Yoga 28:29 Jen's Injury and Recovery Journey 33:36 Dealing with Depression and Physical Limitations 34:13 Challenges and Progress in Post-Surgery Recovery 35:12 Impact of Injury on Yoga Practice 36:32 Reflecting on Personal Strengths in Asana 38:50 Balancing Yoga Practice with Other Activities 39:51 The Influence of Yoga on Personality and Lifestyle 40:47 Re-evaluating Yoga Practice After Injury 42:03 Rebuilding Strength and Balance Post-Injury 46:20 Revisiting Past Yoga Practices and Looking Forward 48:31 Exploring New Exercise Routines and Goals 50:59 Reflecting on the Role of Yoga in Life Balance 53:27 Embracing Change and Moving Forward 56:17 Upcoming Ashtanga Retreat and Future Plans 01:00:05 Final Reflections on Yoga Practice and Personal Growth
Guest Bio:
Jen René has dedicated her career to making Ashtanga Yoga accessible to everyone. With over 20 years of experience in yoga and Pilates, Jen's teaching is deeply rooted in the Ashtanga tradition, yet tailored to resonate with contemporary practitioners. Her teaching style is dynamic, inclusive, and imbued with practical wisdom and heartfelt humor. Jen has positively impacted thousands of students worldwide through her in-person events and online programs, including comprehensive courses on the Primary and Second Series of Ashtanga Yoga, a yoga teacher mentorship, and Pilates for Yogis programs.
Links to connect with Jen René:
- Website: www.jenrene.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JenReneyoga
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