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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