In celebration of International Women’s Day,
we asked some of Luna Yoga’s inspiring and
amazing women to share with our community their story and what it means to be a woman, starting with our beloved founder, teacher, environmentalist and entrepreneur, Jenn Maagendans.
What do you think has been your most important strength that has led you to today?
Willpower — Once I start something I usually stick with it. I become quite determined. I think that's pretty common in Capricorns. I also think I was very lucky to have parents who raised me with the idea that I could do anything I wanted to do. Being a girl wasn't something that would prevent me from doing anything. My Dad often had me help him in the workshop, he taught me how to change a tire and use power tools, ride motorcycles, and do target practice with a bb gun. I also loved playing with Barbies, baking and playing dress up with my Moms old clothes. So in terms of activities that were thought to be more for boys or girls at that time, I was exposed to both, and never even considered that one was not really for "girls". I only realized later when some of my girlfriends were not allowed on our motorcycles, or people were surprised that I helped my Dad build a deck, that it wasn't the norm. His favourite quote was "If it's to be, it's up to me". It drove my sister and I crazy when he said this quote, but it probably did play a big part in who I am today.
“Forget about yourself, just do what you need to do, and everything will be ok.”
What is your mantra when you feel self-doubt?
My mantra is be present, be grateful" I feel very lucky to be living this life and try to look at the big picture. I try not to go down the rabbit hole of rethinking the same thoughts over and over again. I'm not sure I have a specific mantra, but I do things to get past it; I get on my yoga mat, I hang out with my kids, and I go over the issue with my partner, friends or coworkers. Having a support network is really important to me. I often just need to talk it out, and then do something physical to get my mind focused.
Banff Yoga Festival
Women who have inspired you?
My grandmother; she was a no nonsense woman, who once told me the key to happiness was "forget about yourself, just do what you need to do, and everything will be ok".
My Mom; one of the most optimistic people I know. Incredibly supportive, kind and loving.
Friends; I am lucky to have friends who are all so different (authors, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, animal lovers, farmers, photographers, lawyers) they all inspire and support me in different ways.
Coworkers; there are so many amazing women working at the studio. It’s like a big family. We all support each other, give each other ideas, look after one another, and feed each other.
Clients; I’m always so inspired by all the women who make time to come practice. Many of them work full time jobs, have kids, and full schedules, yet they make time for yoga. Self care is often at the bottom of the list for many women, so I know it’s an effort for them to make it to class.
Words of wisdom for women?
You’re stronger than you think. Most of us don’t see ourselves the way others see us. I look around and see beautiful, strong, amazing women all around me, we just need to start seeing ourselves that way.
My Mom; one of the most optimistic people I know. Incredibly supportive, kind and loving.
Jennifer Maagendans is a yoga teacher, entrepreneur, and environmentalist. She is the director and founder of Luna Yoga in Old Montreal. Practicing yoga since 1996, Jennifer has a background in gymnastics, is a certified Jivamukti Yoga Teacher, and holds a degree in Environmental Studies from Concordia University. Her teaching emphasizes inner peace and happiness, as well as a strong connection to the earth. In addition to her teaching, she has led yoga retreats in Canada, Mexico and Costa Rica. In 2008, Jennifer released her first instructional DVD, YogaFlo for Peace and followed it up in 2010 with YogaFlo for the Earth.