Yoga Practice, Not Yoga Perfect - A Chat with Jennie Shumway
There's something magnetic about a yoga instructor who can challenge your abilities and make you love every second of it. Meet Jennie Shumway: a certified hot yoga and vinyasa teacher, studio owner, and one of Bad Girls Yoga's standout instructors based in Sarasota, FL. We sat down with Jennie to talk about her journey, her teaching philosophy, and how Bad Girls Yoga is making group celebrations both rewarding and fun.
From the Mat to the Mission
How did you first connect with Bad Girls Yoga?
Jennie's path to BGY came through word of mouth: a friend recommended her directly to the Bad Girls Yoga founder, Gillian. It was a natural fit for someone who had already built a career around sharing her love of yoga with others.
What role has yoga played in your personal journey?
For Jennie, yoga is far more than exercise. "Yoga is my safe place. It’s my time to be me without judgment from others or myself," she shared. It's where she connects with what she wants from her practice and feels free to explore new postures, styles, and variety. What started as a personal practice has blossomed into a career that strengthens her both mentally and physically, on and off the mat; first as a student, and now as a teacher and studio owner.
What keeps you inspired to teach?
Without hesitation, Jennie says it's the students. Seeing their smiles after class and hearing their feedback about how they feel is what drives everything she does. "To know that we are helping others to feel grounded and connected and loved is the BEST!" she said.
What makes you proud to be part of the BGY team?
Jennie sees Bad Girls Yoga as a truly unique concept. Having a tailor-made yoga experience available for group celebrations takes a huge weight off whoever is doing the planning. She loves knowing that a group can simply book, show up, and walk away with an amazing shared experience that makes the celebration that much more special, memorable, and enjoyable for everyone involved.
On the Mat: Jennie's Teaching Style and Favorite Pose
What does a class with you look like?
Jennie's approach depends on the format (she's certified in both 26+2 hot yoga and vinyasa), but her underlying philosophy stays consistent. “I lead students to challenge themselves the same way I want to be challenged when I’m taking a class.” That said, she's quick to emphasize: “It's always your practice. If you want to take it easy, find modifications, or simply do what feels good for your body, that's more than welcome.”
Whether it's one of our signature Namaste then Rosé™ sessions or a sweat-dripping hot yoga flow, Jennie brings energy and intention to every class.
Do you have a go-to yoga pose?
Jennie lights up when talking about Ardha Kurmasana, a.k.a. Half Tortoise. As a traditional hot yoga practitioner, this pose holds a special place in her heart. "It comes toward the end of the series when you're pretty much totally spent," she explained. The pose involves lengthening the spine with the forehead to the ground, creating a traction that feels incredible from fingertips to tailbone. She describes it as relaxing and challenging all at the same time: it’s a satisfying spine stretch that rewards you right when you need it most.
Advice for Yoga Newcomers
Is there a common misconception about yoga you'd like to address?
Most people assume they can't do yoga because they aren't flexible, and Jennie’s answer is always the same: “That's exactly why you need it.” She points out that very few people walk into their first class and touch their toes. Yoga is a journey, and the more you practice, the better you feel. As Jennie likes to say, "It's Yoga Practice — Not Yoga Perfect!"
What would you tell someone who's nervous about trying yoga for the first time?
“It's like anything in life: you don't know what you don't know until you try. Not everyone ends up loving yoga, and that's okay. But for those who discover a true connection to the practice,” she says, “it becomes part of your soul.”
Any tips for preparing for that first class?
Beyond the basics (bring a towel, a mat, water, and comfortable clothes), Jennie stresses the importance of showing up mentally available. "Be open-minded. Allow yourself to be led on the journey," she advised.
Come Join the Fun
Ready to bring Bad Girls Yoga to your next celebration? Whether it's a bachelorette party, birthday bash, or girls' night out, Bad Girls Yoga makes it easy and unforgettable. Fill out our form to get more information and start planning your session with Bad Girls Yoga today!
