Meet Jenn Baugus | Yoga Instructor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jenn Baugus and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jenn, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I have always had an extremely creative mind. From a young age, I had an entrepreneurial spirit, pair that with my dreamer mentality and one may say I was in much need of disciplined grounding. An aspect that was not as much fun as the creativity that seemed to endlessly flow. This led initially to a network marketing opportunity, where I began building my first brand which involved leading other female entrepreneurs in their success. I proceeded to open an event planning business where I assisted in catering and designing event table scapes and other aspects to bring custom, sometimes elaborate visions to life. We specialized in everything from birthday parties to weddings, and all in between. Finally, I found myself in yoga teacher training after caring for my grandmother. Caregiving is a gift, yet depleting and I needed something for me. I had no idea what a self discovery journey it would be, and was able to quickly grasp concepts I had been searching for as long as I can remember – true fulfillment, mindfulness, presence, and most importantly… my calm. I was “hooked” and felt as though this is what I was meant to do; what I needed to share with the world. I could feel it deep in my soul and although I will forever cherish and never discredit my previous endeavors, I believe they led to this… my true passion. Every chance I have to spread the light in which yoga has given me I cherish as a true gift.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I believe I lived most of my life in a people pleasing loop; driven by the acceptance and opinions of others. Always very aware of those around me, an empath for sure; this grew to be a huge deterrent in my day to day and my began life revolve around my anxiety. Avoidance and panic attacks left me feeling as though I was caged in a box. This came in waves, sometimes it was worse than others, yet always somehow present. Entering 2020, as all was about to change, I was also taking on the role of caregiver to my grandmother; She and I had always been close, and she was in need of assistance. She suffered from ALZ and dementia; and it was getting to a point where safety was a concern. After a brief stay in my home, it was apparent this plan was not the answer and I regretfully had to place her in memory care, where she later passed and I was heartbroken to say the least. I felt like I had failed the one person that had always been there for me and I was at a low point. Aware of needing something for “ME”, I turned to yoga. A friend had introduced me to the practice about a decade prior, and it had made a significant impact on my hope and inspiration for more. I signed up for yoga teacher training and never looked back.

Being a long time sufferer of anxiety, this was NOT an easy task. Being in front of people was scary enough, but speaking? No…. Teaching? No…Cueing movement in others bodies?? Absolutely not…. (LOL)
I remember teaching my graduation sequence and having a complete melt down/panic attack directly after; shaking, crying, the whole nine…. and guess what? I graduated. I didn’t teach the perfect sequence as it had been in my mind, but I did it! I completed my 200hr. and was a yoga teacher. About six months later, I began teaching and spread my outreach to events, new locations, and different studios. I believe I have gathered life altering lessons that will carry me well beyond any business venture I choose. Creating meaningful relationships and connections while staying authentic with oneself is the ultimate goal and, in my opinion, the true meaning of success; the foundation to any business model I want to follow.
I hope to spread awareness of this ancient practice and bring light to all of the simplicity that mindful movement can bring. I would like others that experience anxiety to know that with gathering different tools in your tool belt, as well as deep self inquiry, there is another side and chapter to your journey… You just have to search for the one that begins to assist and community may make all the difference.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Depending on the season, we have some great sports. I would probably suggest to catch a Braves game, maybe go for a quick bite or drink around the Battery… my favorite is a caipirinha and cuban from El Super Pan.
Also love Atlanta United and UGA- Go Dawgs!
There are so many cute spots and rooftop bars; anything scenic with a view. I guess I can never pass up pasta from Forza Storico, or drinks and dancing at T&G.
Some other great spots are Piedmont Park, midtown, Little 5, I mean, I’m a mom and I’m 40….so someone could prob guide me here. But a few fave spots that never fail – Smiths Olde Bar, Max’s Pizzeria.
Favorite dinner – Canoe – the kangaroo and rabbit are absolute Must Haves !

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My few close friends that have stuck by me through it all, you know who you are 😉

Be Yoga Atlanta – where I completed my teacher training, and the place I have felt like home in since the moment I walked in!
(The owner, Julie; manager, Paige; my mentors and training group – Ches; and the community there for believing in me when I had nothing but doubt. Forever grateful)
LA Fitness & Christina for allowing me to gain experience while advancing my craft and widening my reach.
Best audition I ever wore a headset backwards to 😉
CK Danceworks for being so welcoming, my newest “home”.

Website: https://yinwithjenn.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenn370

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn370/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jenn370/