Jenayl Peters

RYT- 200, Yin Fusion, and more on the way!

WHERE WERE YOU BORN AND RAISED?
Newbury Park, California but spent my weekends here in Ventura at the beach with my family.  

TELL US A BRIEF HISTORY OF YOUR PERSONAL PRACTICE
Despite many invites to partake in yoga from friends and family, I paid little interest to this offer. I thought it was a slow and “boring” way to spend my time. I soon realized that my response to this invite was a direct reflection of the way I lived my life : rigid and closed off, not slowing down enough to leave room for growth. I was set in my ways not even realizing that those “ways” were keeping me from embarking on a better journey towards the better part of me.

Because I spent every last dollar on going on surf trips and paying rent, I learned quickly that Groupon.com was a good friend of mine. Soon, in my inbox, came a deal for a discounted hot yoga studio nearby. I had a friend that I surfed with a lot that also went to this studio and had amazing things to say. I thought maybe it was time to give it a go. I managed to make it to class on time despite feeling nervous and vulnerable. I moved my body in ways that required care and intention to release the unrealistic expectations in my mind. I sweat, I hummed to the music, I even cried. I began to feel some release overtake me. Little did I know, it was my ego, my rigidity, my self-loathing side of me that was crumbling down. I began to breathe again. 

 It's been a long and beautiful journey coming back to myself through this practice and pairing that with my faith in God. I learned how to love my body again and use it the way He designed it to be: a temple to be honored and appreciated, not hated. An example of caring for his stunning natural creation. 

Since then, no matter what city I moved to or traveled to, I began craving these four walls of being encouraged to honor my body through yoga- the journey back into my heart that I silenced for too long. It’s been my honor to share this journey through practicing and teaching.

TELL US A BRIEF HISTORY OF YOUR TEACHING EXPERIENCE
I had the privilege of taking Ana McCabe’s 200hr Teacher Training in the beginning of 2024 and it pushed me in ways I never knew I was capable of. It is such an honor learning from teachers and students that have gone before me and I truly appreciate the divine expansion. Since then, I have taken the opportunity to teach here at Grassroots, as well as teaching at private events such as bachelorette parties and wellness events!

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE YOGA POSE?
How can we pick just one?! While this is ever changing, my body most consistently responds well to Revolved Crescent Lunge. It is an active pose and active stretch that requires stamina and breathing intentionally through the twist and expansion. I like that this brings me to a present moment.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE YOGA/SPIRITUALITY/SELF HELP BOOK?

“Captivated” by John and Staci Eldridge. I cannot recommend this book enough. It is a book that evolves with you, for you. I have read it three times over the past 5 years and each time it gives me something more profound and more motivational. It is a faith based book for women reminding us that we were created purposefully out of love and perfect design. Each little “ping” and desire that we have is uniquely given to us to help map out the purpose we have in this life. If you are a man looking for something like this book, they have written one in the masculine perspective called “Wild at Heart”. I highly encourage your beautiful mind to find its way to the words in these books.

ANY ADVICE FOR BEGINNERS?
Don’t over think it! If I was able to get myself into a yoga class at a stubborn, self deprecating stage, then you can too! The community is here doing the same thing, you’re not alone.

WHAT DOES “COMMUNITY” MEAN TO YOU?
A place to come back to self. A place to allow your roots to grow deep into the soil that you are nurturing. A place that feels safe and kind. From a deeply personal experience, Grassroots is one of the most special communities and I feel so blessed to be apart of it.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT VENTURA?
My favorite thing about ventura is the heartfelt community, the accessibility to amazing waves and local hiking trails. And without a doubt- these beloved thrift stores! 

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION? (preferably something local)
More Than Conquerers (MTC)  Surf. MTC Surf serves foster and trafficked youth in Ventura County by providing them with the opportunity to heal from trauma by experiencing freedom, joy, and confidence through the gift of surfing.