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#ODDlight Feature: Laura Jenkins
Name: LAURA JENKINS
Nick Name: Shorty (Friends... due to my IG handle @shortywannathug)
Hometown: Poughkeepsie, NY | Philadelphia, PA
Favorite Place: the beach (any)
Favorite color: blue | green
What’s your sign? Gemini
Most embarrassing moment? I was about 11 years old, in dance class. We were all sitting after attendance listening to announcements, so super quiet. And I was playing around with holding a leg up in the air, and I farted. I was mortified but everyone pretended they didn't hear it, but I know they did. Still makes me feel embarrassed talking about it!
Most empowering moment? Opening Massage Studio of Philadelphia (my own massage practice) in Philadelphia in 2012 and a second location in 2014.
Fun Fact most wouldn’t know about you? I was homeschooled 2nd-11th Grade
Fun Fact most wouldn’t know about you? I have 6 siblings
Fun Fact most wouldn’t know about you? I was an NFL Cheerleader for 4 years
Share a story or anecdote with us – something magical, changing, funny, or adventurous. Something that you love to tell.
When my boyfriend and I moved to Los Angeles, we drove across the country from Philadelphia. We drove my little 2001 VW Jetta; me, a 6'7" tall boyfriend, and a Great Dane in the backseat. We stopped at the Grand Canyon for the expected sight seeing and it seriously felt like Mila (the dog) got more photos by strangers then the Grand Canyon. It was such a funny experience to see this massive, beautiful landmark and have people constantly asking us about the dog and taking photos. Definitely a highlight on our cross country journey.
When you aren’t at the studio where can you be found (favorite past time)?
Choreographing/dancing somewhere, anywhere.
How do you define yoga?
I consider yoga a way of life. There is more to it then just the asana part of it, and incorporating yoga and all the things (breath, meditation, etc) into your everyday makes it a lifestyle.
Why do you teach/massage?
I practice Massage Therapy because I like to make people feel better.
I am excited to begin teaching to help people familiarize themselves with their physical body and to help them feel better over all.
What brought you to become an instructor/massage therapist?
I've always been interested in Physical/Sports Therapy (the medical side of things), and after doing PT and other modalities for a dance injury I found Massage Therapy and it actually helped my issue. So I began looking into Massage Therapy as a career alongside of dance.
I decided to go for my Yoga Teacher Certification because I saw the therapeutic aspect of yoga and wanted to incorporate that knowledge in with my massage therapy practice and vice versa.
What is your favorite song to play in class/massage session?
Almost all my play lists have "Coffee" by Sylvan Esso on it -- so for now that one!
What is your favorite pose or flow? Why?
Hands down, my favorite pose is Savasana. I like it because my body is fatigued at that point and I get to just lie there and chill out for at least 5 minutes and not do anything!
Memorable yoga moment?
Learning in Surya A that when you "hop forward" to flat back it's on an INHALE -- not an exhale. #gamechanger
How did you first hear about One Down Dog?
Ducky! My boyfriend knew Ducky before I did, and when I moved here to join him in LA he said, "...you gotta go to where Ducky teaches and take yoga."
What is your favorite yogi prop or piece to wear or use?
Love my blocks.
What special causes or non-profits do you hold dear to your heart?
I am about to volunteer at Create Now (a non profit) so I'll let you know if I love it,
Are there any links, @names, and #hashtags you would you like us to use in promoting you and your happenings?
CHECK HER OUT -
- Upcoming workshop for teachers - Hands On Savasana - Yoga teacher and massage therapist Laura is going to give you some tips and tricks! June 25th!
- Don't forget that ODD Unlimited Monthly Members get 10% off their massage sessions ($99!)
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