I caught up with Jen between classes. Here’s what our running, always giving, social media queen had to say….

You’re on the work study team at TruHarmony, what is that like?

It’s a great experience and a great opportunity.  I get to interact with so many people.  I really enjoy being involved in the yoga community and learning so much. 

What made you fall in love with Tru?

Well, I used to practice yoga a few years before Tru and then took a break.  Then I had knee surgery and decided I needed to do other cross training besides just running.  So 3 months after my 4^th surgery I went to Tru and loved it.  I really feel that it’s helped me become more of a well-rounded athlete and getting more flexible makes it even better!  I love the classes, instructors and the atmosphere…..that was the biggest thing. Plus I started noticing a difference in my running…I was getting faster!

You’ve had a big change in your life recently, want to fill us in?

Yes, I actually made a career change recently.  I was in a position for quite awhile and was miserable.  I finally decided to listen to what people were actually saying I would be good at and decided to take a risk.  I refused to listen to what people were telling me for the past 3 years and finally opened myself up to what they said and took the risk.

You recently helped connect TruHarmony with the Chicago Area Runner’s Association. How long have you been passionate about running?

I’ve been passionate about running for the past 5 years.  I’ve been a CARA member for a little longer than that.  I decided to get more involved with the running community and fell in love with it.  I have developed some pretty great relationships and love how everyone supports each other.

What’s the craziest race you’ve done?

I’d have to say……running 18 miles the day before a half marathon.  Not to smart….HA.  Another (sorry had to throw this in) was a few years back when we had a surprise snow storm the morning of the Shamrock Shuffle, I ran in the ice and was like my feet are cold, I’m going to turn around…but then ended up finishing it.  That’s when I discovered when you put your mind to something no one can stop you, but you.

What’s the craziest pose you want to do in yoga?

Pigeon….every form of pigeon.  I just want a 60 minute pigeon class.

You’re really active between yoga, running, and softball. How do you make time for those things you love?

It’s hard, but I have a pretty strict schedule during the week and weekends.  The tough part is always getting enough rest.  I know these are the things I love to do so I make sure that I fit in as much as possible.

What’s one thing you’re working on right now?

I am currently working on putting together a softball tournament in April where half of the proceeds will go towards charity.  I am also constantly reminding myself to stay in the present moment and not to get too caught up in the ‘what if’s’ of life. 

When can we see you at Tru?

I am a work study on Thursday nights….but I’m usually there Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays and sometimes Sundays if I don’t have any running events that may come up.

What was the last yoga class you took? Thoughts?

Last class I took was Jordan’s sculpt.  I liked this specific class because it focused more on lower body instead of upper body; it was a feel good soreness the next day.

If you could tell every new student that walked in one thing about the studio, what would it be?

You are going to love the atmosphere and the instructors.  The instructors are open to anyone asking more questions and to you getting better at any pose you want to improve at. Just have fun.

Yogi + Yogi = amazing power couple! Meet Jason and Karin two of our most lovable yogis. 

TRU: What brought you to TruHarmony Yoga?

Karin: Jason actually found Tru as we were walking our dogs around the neighborhood. He knew I was looking for a yoga studio after moving to Chicago from Houston and suggested we check it out.

TRU: What made you stay at Tru?

Jason: The instructors and the welcoming vibe of the studio.

Karin: We got the first week free and went (I think) almost every day to check out all the classes. I was blown away by the friendliness and openness of everyone – from the instructors to the students. There was a sense of community here that I have not found in many other studios since first starting my yoga practice 8-9 years ago.
TRU: Who practiced yoga first, Jason or Karin?

Jason: We both practiced a bit before we met, but Karin is the one who suggested we practice together.

TRU: What’s it like being married to a hot yoga chick?

Jason: Exciting…our life is an adventure. We enjoy a lot of the same things while at the same time exploring new opportunities.

TRU: Karin, you recently completed the TruYou weekend workshop. Tell us a little about it and what you biggest takeaways are.

Karin: I signed up for the TruYou weekend because I wanted to challenge myself with a weekend of yoga as well as dig a little deeper into finding out more about my ‘TruMe’. I thought it may help bring some clarity to some work related decisions I was struggling with. It did just that plus so much more. It was such a safe and supportive environment to just be vulnerable and open in with the group. No judgement. I really feel like I got to know me better. I left with clear and attainable goals that I am working on now and a certain peace that the decisions I am making are the right ones for me.

TRU: What’s it like having a husband who also practices yoga?

Karin: Cool, fun, competitive! It’s fun to have someone to go to yoga with and share in the experience. And it keeps me accountable knowing there is someone to motivate me to leave the house on those days I just don’t feel like it.

TRU: What have you two learned together?

Karin: That we are both weaker and stronger than we thought.

TRU: What silly thing(s) do you guys do together, besides yoga?

Karin: We play games, card games are our favorite, especially Gin. We even have an imaginary belt/title that the winner claims the rights to.

TRU: What was the last date you went on together?

Jason: Dinner and a movie – The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (a book we had both read).

TRU: How has yoga changed your relationship?

Jason: We both look forward to going to, and it’s something we enjoy doing together.

Karin: It has improved our relationship and brought us closer together. It keeps us accountable for our attitudes. You will sometimes hear “That’s not very yogi” coming from one of us to the other.

TRU: What are you doing for Valentine’s Day?

Jason: Not sure… I should probably start looking into that.

TRU: What advice do you have for couples out there?

Karin: Stay connected and involved I each others lives. Invest and support one another.

TRU: What do you love most about each other?

Jason: Karin is a great person who makes me laugh and, of course, her Warrior II pose.

Karin: That I can be my complete, nerdy self around Jason and I know he loves me regardless.