Jenny Guzon-Bae, R.Y.T.

Hometown: Melrose Park, Illinois

I am grateful for: The experiences in my life, the good and the bad, which have led me to discover my dharma….being a yoga instructor.

3 words that describe you: Creative, loving, and sometimes a little nutty.

Favorite yoga pose and why: Vasisthasana B (side plank with hand to big toe)—I always feel empowered and strong, yet soft and graceful. It is the best pose where I find sthira & sukha.

Things I can’t live without: My family, water, and laughter.

Words to describe your teaching style: Creative, challenging, inspiring, uplifting, and fun!

When and where was your first yoga class?: Over 10 years ago, I took my first class (at the constant urging of my husband who was already practicing yoga) with Fiona McCarthy at Lake Forest Health & Fitness. Having been a ballerina and gymnast when I was younger, I adapted pretty fast and loved the beautiful flowing movements of asana.

What inspires you: My students—especially when they leave the mat spiritually uplifted more than physically strong.

What do you do for fun: Yoga (duh!), travel, and shop!

Favorite place: The beach, the mountains, or any place where I can reconnect with the beauty of the earth.

Jenny Guzon-Bae, RYT, has been practicing yoga for over 10 years, but truly discovered her deep connection with yoga when she was a contestant on CBS-TV’s Survivor: Cook Islands in 2006. She received her 200-hour yoga certification in 2009 through the direct guidance of Master Teacher Daren Friesen of Moksha Yoga Center of Chicago, and has plans to further her yoga education with 500-hour yoga training in the next year.