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Protected: On Being Human Online Series: Don’t Be An Asshole. How To Forget Perfection & Be Human.

August 20, 2016

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155 Comments

  • Reply Melissa Stark August 20, 2016 at 4:25 pm

    I am really looking forward to this experience and being able to take some me time!

    • Reply Elizabeth Quant September 9, 2016 at 1:21 pm

      MELISSA!! My Melissa, right??? God I hope so. Or this message might be creepy to “another” Melissa.
      I’m doing this too! We can do this from our beds. When I’m feeling up to it, I’ll crawl to your house and we can do it together.❤️❤️❤️

  • Reply Jennifer Pastiloff August 20, 2016 at 4:30 pm

    Welcome!! Where are you in the world?

    • Reply Donna Haber August 23, 2016 at 11:35 am

      Right now I’m in Northern California where I spend most of my life these days. I will be back home in Hawaii when this group starts! Ahhhh, looking forward to it all. I’m bring an asshole to myself right this minute but trying to make needed space for myself.

      My son and his 3 1/2 year old daughter live with my hubby and I and our 4 dogs and 2 fish. I have no other pets except the dust bunnies collecting around the house. I feel like my life has been turned upside down and my house and my life aren’t my own anymore. I’m a full time caretaking grandma and I love it but I miss my quieter more peaceful life at the same time. We’re all adjusting to living under the same roof which brings chaotic JOY and MADNESS. So all of you new Mom’s out there I’m back in your tribe again with all the craziness and amazement little ones bring. I have been fortunate to attend a retreat with Jen. Being with her and the space she creates opened me up to what I needed right then and there. I will never be able to explain it well enough. This online group is a gift! Looking forward to being a part of it!

    • Reply Abby August 23, 2016 at 5:49 pm

      Live in Vancouver BC
      Want to participate as I am working teaching university courses and raising my beautiful son who will be two September 15- need to carve both me and creative writing time!

      • Reply Kristen October 8, 2016 at 6:29 pm

        Hi Abby! It’s me, Kristen, so good to see you in here 🙂 I miss Vancouver!

      • Reply Cori October 9, 2016 at 8:57 pm

        Hi Abby
        I’m in Vancouver too! Let’s connect offline? Hello@corihoward.com

    • Reply Hema Parekh September 7, 2016 at 8:39 pm

      Hello! I’m hollering from Toronto, ON in Canada!!! Why am I here? I have deeply connected to the messages Jen sends out to the world but I am in need of repeats and refreshers. I am excited to connect with her actively online through this community and proclaim to have done love – again!- one more time! “I have done love” over and over again redefining it for myself every time!
      Nice to meet you all! ? Hema

      • Reply Tina F September 13, 2016 at 6:44 pm

        Hi Hema – my Krip sister!! Psyched to see you on here too! ? Tina

    • Reply Diana September 13, 2016 at 8:20 am

      I am in Pasadena, Palm Springs, CA. Henderson, NV. And occasionally Pass Christian, MS. I am so excited that I was able to join the online series. I can’t wait to experience this. My life is super hectic and here I am singing in online classes but if I don’t do it I definetly will go crazy. I am waking up and trying everyday not to be an asshole, I fail most of the time, but I found out that if I keep myself busy with work until I can’t feel my body then I am ok, I know is not a way of living life. Eventually I will learn to have less pain and become the loving person I am supposed to be… Thank you for your teachings they are a light in the darkness for me.

    • Reply Nikki October 3, 2016 at 8:05 am

      I’m Nikki from Birmingham in England. My background is IT but I have now been teaching yoga for two years and I love it. I’m leaving my other part time job as I am tired of doing work that I am good at that I don’t love and being in toxic environments. I’ve made a decision to only pursue work and projects that I feel passionate about – such as my teaching – and have made a commitment to serve others. I’m expanding my yoga teaching into workshops and retreats and also am in the process of creating another project to coach, support and otherwise encourage other yoga teachers into developing their businesses, drawing on my business background and experience of self-employment for more than 20 years but also drawing on my deeply cherished spiritual beliefs.

      I met Jen this weekend in London and while I expected to enjoy the workshop before I went was totally inspired and encouraged, it really helped me to break through some of the barriers that I’m aware I’ve been carrying around. Their release is so critical to me moving forward so I’m eternally grateful.

      Looking forward to connecting to you all
      xxx

  • Reply Carla Nigro August 20, 2016 at 4:41 pm

    HI! I can’t wait for this workshop. I am so excited to connect and learn from you, Jen. I turned 40 this year and have vowed to focus more time on ME! It is easier said than done between family (hubby and 2 kids), work and everything else. I started yoga earlier this year and LOVE it. I also love your Girl Power Manifesto not only for me but for my 10 year old daughter.

    I am from just south of Boston, MA, love yoga, the beach and laughing. Looking forward to getting to know everyone and getting the most out of this!

  • Reply Cassie Taylor August 20, 2016 at 6:05 pm

    I am so excited for this! I’ve been to a couple of workshops in Dallas and they facilitated a lot of change in my life. I now live in a small beach town in NC (Wilmington) and am again at a crossroads of sorts. I travel constantly for work and need to find a way to make space for me, time for me and rediscover my passion outside of work. I’m excited about having a community to share things with and learn from!

  • Reply Sarah Ross August 20, 2016 at 6:58 pm

    I’m so excited for this opportunity. I’ve been following you for a long time but never been able to participate in any workshops or retreats, which I would love to do one day! I live in Southern California, I am 34, married, have a 4 year old son and I have no idea what I want to do with the rest of my life. I have felt “stuck” for a long time and after my son was born I realized I had some work to do with myself. I’m so glad that you said “I am not trying to change anyone. F that. The world wants to change us enough. I am simply striving to make us more FREE!!!” I found on my journey that I started to feel that I was trying to “fix” something that was wrong with me instead of learning to love myself as I am. So that is where I am now, learning to love and accept myself, not change myself. I’m looking forward to the workshop!! Thank you <3

    • Reply ashley August 23, 2016 at 1:40 pm

      Sarah, as i was skimming through the comments yours caught my eye and by the last sentence i was in tears. for so many years i’ve tried to “fix” myself and i’m tired. sinking into the idea of loving oneself seems so calm and peaceful instead of the harsh hammering of “fixing”. thank you for sharing. i can already tell this is going to be an amazing experience.

  • Reply Sarah August 20, 2016 at 7:00 pm

    Wow. So happy to be a part of this. I desire so much to be less of an asshole to myself. I’m currently a nomad, having sold my house in December. It makes life both more and less complicated all at once. Lots of love.

  • Reply Natalie Hirt August 20, 2016 at 7:28 pm

    Jen, thank you for offering this class. I’m Natalie Hirt. I’m born and raised Southern California, but moved to Portland, Oregon 4 months ago. I also signed up with the wrong email address. It’s not my Facebook address so I think I’m being invited to your secret group on another account I might have once when FB first began, but I can’t seem to get back into that account. The account I use on FB every day is Natalie Natalie with the email hirtn521 at gmail dot com.

    Also, thank you so much for the yoga offer. I’ve tried a couple of classes in the past, but felt completely inept and never went back. I absolutely plan to take advantage of all you have to teach me here. Thank you again.

  • Reply Dawn Smith August 20, 2016 at 7:56 pm

    I am beyond excited for this, thank you so much for creating this and I am sending love from Scottsdale Arizona.

  • Reply Roni August 20, 2016 at 9:43 pm

    Hi Jen! I was in your Portland “Writing and the Body Workshop” and am so excited for this online offering! Thank you!!! Hugs from Silverton, Oregon!

    • Reply Sue September 4, 2016 at 8:57 am

      Roni, I signed up for this, too! Woo hoo!~ Sue M

    • Reply Roni B October 3, 2016 at 5:02 am

      What are the odds of 2 Roni’s in 150 ladies? I’ve only ever met one other. Blessings on you and us on the journey together. From Galva, IL.

  • Reply Brandi Keller August 20, 2016 at 10:04 pm

    Hi, Jen and other ladies. I am currently in Houston, but I’m a new transplant from Ohio, so I think the heat is trying to kill me. It’s pretty much the main character in life these days.
    I’m here, not because I have no time for myself, but because 1) I was going to take advantage of this mysterious online course regardless of my reason and 2) leaving somewhere I love to somewhere I don’t love far from family and friends, with no job yet, has made me a bit of a shell of a person. I don’t know what the point of anything is. I don’t know why I can’t take steps to do something I love. I don’t know why I won’t make art. I don’t know why I won’t write. I don’t know why I’m in a pool of stagnated goals.
    P.S. One thing is for sure: I love nature and have to connect to it to stay sane.

    • Reply Laura August 21, 2016 at 6:01 am

      Brandi…. I love your heartfelt message and I can so relate.
      But… I read that as “I don’t know why I’m in a pool of stagnated GOATS”. I thought, “Yeahhhh, me neither, is that common in Texas?” HA! I’m sure this course will help will your goals, and goats. x

      • Reply Brandi Keller September 2, 2016 at 12:14 pm

        Laura, that is hilarious! I think we’ll get along fine. Now, I really wish I was in a pool of stagnated goats just to see what they all think of it, too!
        Sorry for the delay, I got to get a refresher in Ohio!

    • Reply Stephanie Holm September 12, 2016 at 9:17 pm

      Brandi –

      Your phrase “pool of stagnated goals” resonates SO deeply with me!! Can’t what for this journey to begin!!

      – Stephanie

  • Reply Malin Slocombe August 20, 2016 at 11:18 pm

    Hi everyone! I live in a small town called Öjersjö in Sweden and started following Jen after doing some of your fabulous classes on Oneoeight. You really enspire me and I get so much out of your online classes! I joined this course as I am curious to see what it is and as I really could do with being less of an asshole to myself. A trap I fall into way to often. I can’t wait for it to start!!
    xxx

  • Reply tetia stroud August 21, 2016 at 12:45 am

    Hi! I’m Tetia (Tee-sha) and I live in Los Angeles. I moved out here 5 years ago from Dallas, TX and I love it out here!! Sorry Brandi, that you’re having to live in that Houston heat and humidity – I grew up there and then moved to Dallas and raised my kids there. Speaking of my kids – I’ve got 4 grown children and my daughter is going to make me a Gigi any day now with the birth of her daughter!! Jen – I was drawn to your Girl Power: You Are Enough because I love anything that helps girls be kinder to themselves and each other. My daughter started Kind Campaign, which takes a serious look at the effects of female bullying or mean girls and I’ve seen and heard first hand how damaging it can be. I’ve followed you on Instagram for quite a while and always think your retreats and workshops look wonderful so when I saw the chance to get in on this one I signed up right away!! Blissfully – Tetia

    • Reply Brandi Keller September 2, 2016 at 12:18 pm

      Oh, Tetia… you know! I got back from Ohio and said, Home Sweat Home. Congrats on a new baby by your baby, if it has happened or about to happen. Xoxoxo

  • Reply Emma Turton August 21, 2016 at 1:15 am

    I am so excited by this workshop, thanks Jen! I live in Henley On Thames, United Kingdom.

    • Reply Laura August 22, 2016 at 1:00 am

      Another English lady! Hi Emma *waves from Liverpool*

  • Reply Kate George August 21, 2016 at 2:29 am

    Hi my name is Kate and I’m in Perth Western Australia. I have two lovely kids under 6 and I work full time (sigh). I was working to a plan supporting my husband of 10 years to become an electrician and he walked out on the kids and I last week. So I’m trying to find some positives. Xxoo

    • Reply Kirsten August 22, 2016 at 10:34 am

      That’s a big life shake up. How are you feeling?

    • Reply Jennifer Pastiloff August 22, 2016 at 12:58 pm

      Oh, wow. That’s huge. I am so happy you are here.

    • Reply Barbara Potter August 23, 2016 at 12:03 pm

      Wow. That’s rough. Glad you are here.

    • Reply sabrina August 23, 2016 at 4:40 pm

      Kate, have you read Pema Chodron’s “When Things Fall Apart?” It’s an amazing book and starts in the place you are at now, with her husband walking out.

    • Reply Katherine Jakovich August 23, 2016 at 8:43 pm

      sending you much love and strength xoxo

    • Reply Donna Haber August 24, 2016 at 8:15 am

      Oh that’s so hard Kate! Welcome. This group will provide great support!

    • Reply Dawn Smith August 24, 2016 at 10:09 am

      Hi Katie, I am so sorry to hear that, I am sending love and positive thoughts to you from Arizona and I’m very happy you are here, I think Jen has created something amazing.

  • Reply Laura August 21, 2016 at 5:59 am

    Hello, ladies! I’m Laura, bride-to-be and lawyer from Liverpool, England. I have followed Jen’s work online for a little while, and am slowly coming around to the idea of self-care and doing things just for ME! I’m really excited for this online experience, and desperate to be part of a loving community (it can be a little lonely when you’re self-employed and your man works long shifts!) I have just started to do yoga and am exploring my spirituality, after years of being uptight, hypercritical and neurotic. My friends already tease me that I’m becoming a hippy so this course might well tip me over the edge… well, sue me! x

    • Reply Brandi Keller September 2, 2016 at 12:23 pm

      Love it and congrats on planning a wedding! I lived in Wales for two years, so despite it not being England, I am always drawn to anyone from the UK because I miss it so.

    • Reply Nikki October 3, 2016 at 8:00 am

      I’m looking for a lawyer that does yoga for a project of mine, would you be interested in chatting offline?

      Embrace your inner hippy 🙂

      x

      • Reply Laura October 8, 2016 at 9:12 am

        Hi Nikki, absolutely. I definitely “do” yoga, but I’m very much a beginner and won’t be doing handstands anytime soon! You can find me on Jen’s On Being Human Facebook group… my surname on Facebook is Wilder. I’ll be sure to check my private messages x

  • Reply Tina August 21, 2016 at 8:03 am

    Hi everyone! I am Tina from Concord NH. I have been following Jen for a few years and have been trying to get to a workshop but not a lot goes on up here in New England:) I am a mother of 5, grandmother of 4, yoga teacher, student and work in an Eating Disorders Treatment Center. My busy life can be somewhat “other” centered and this online retreat is just the thing I need.

    • Reply Ingrid October 8, 2016 at 5:47 pm

      Jen’s retreat at Kripalu just opened. It’s an amazing time!!!

  • Reply Rhonda Kuster August 21, 2016 at 8:23 am

    Hello all…I live in Ohio and I have been practicing yoga for 20 years and am currently studying Ayurveda.
    I have followed you, Jen, on Instagram for over a year and just decided to dive into this maiden voyage of your online ‘being human’ workshop. Sounds like a fun inquiry to explore with a group of people from all over the world 🙂 See you in October.

  • Reply Bianca Siwek August 21, 2016 at 9:45 am

    Hello ladies! My name is Bianca and I am in Texas 🙂 I have started following Jen’s work, mainly the writing. I have found it so inspiring. I just really relate to the message of self love and sisterhood. I certainly have yearned for both. I am really excited to dive a little deeper. Thanks for branching out into the online classes, but one day I would love to do a retreat! I am also a mom of three 🙂

  • Reply Jen in Minnesota August 21, 2016 at 10:02 am

    I have been following Jen online for awhile, but have never done anything like this. I crave connection to this community of women, to freely share thoughts and stories with you all, and to listen and feel heard. Through this workshop I hope to become less of an asshole to myself and others and find some clarity in what is best for me in my career and relationships. I am admittedly nervous about sharing online, but felt a bit better about it after reading Jen’s rule about this being confidential and in this being a safe, supportive, loving place. Looking forward to October, Jen

  • Reply Michelle Riddell August 21, 2016 at 11:14 am

    I am in the bathroom, my favorite place in the house, in a rural town in mid-Michigan. Where I live is a big factor in my life: It’s wild and open, while at the same time stifling and restrictive. I essentially live a double life, keeping my true self hidden away in order to “get along.” I signed up for this workshop to practice/learn/uncover skills to live in my own self, honestly, at all times. I’m tired of worrying about the repercussions of disclosing my soul. Conforming is kind of like being an asshole to yourself by saying, “you deserve to hide.” I am ready to work.

    I heard about this experience on your Facebook page, which I have followed for a long time. I recently had the honor of being published on your site. I think the world of your mission and I’m grateful to be here.
    XO

  • Reply Chrissy C August 21, 2016 at 11:40 am

    I’m very excited to be a part of this online session. I live in St. Louis and my life has had lots of ups and downs in the last few years and I’m hoping this will help me. I am a mother of a grown son and I have a 3 year old grandson and a granddaughter due in January. I’ve learned that life is messy and it’s important to remember the small things that make you happy. I’ve been through breast cancer, divorce, retirement, a new part time job and taking care of aging parents. It’s a lot to take on and I want to learn more about how to take better care of myself through all of this. Thanks so much for the opportunity to do this online! I learned about Jen through emilymcdowell.com when I saw her quotes on the cards. They are really real and very inspiring!

  • Reply ashley August 21, 2016 at 4:13 pm

    hi! i live in magical NYC & joined the online course bc it allows me to reside in my safe space of invisibility while I’m learning to take up more space & use my voice a little louder. this way i get to be a brave coward 😉

  • Reply Danielle Schafer August 21, 2016 at 6:00 pm

    Hi Jen and lovely ladies!

    I first discovered you Jen through Karaoke Yoga! As a yoga teacher and singing and dancing fool, this style resonated with my soul. Fun, laughter-filled classes that get the body moving and the soul expressing are my favorite! Who says yoga has to be so serious?! Since then, I’ve followed you on IG for quite awhile yet have not been able to make it to a workshop or retreat. This online workshop was the perfect opportunity!

    It also couldn’t have come at the most perfect time! I’m transitioning into being an entrepreneur in the yoga and health and wellness coaching field and am suffering from imposter syndrome aka “not enoughness”. The last few weeks have been filled with procrastination at its finest. A shit storm of assholery (that’s a word, right?) finally reached an all-time high the other day! Then, voila, this incredible online workshop offer appeared in my IG feed! Fear/perfection/doubt/inertia had me hesitating, but I put on my Big Girl Panties and said f*it! Sign me up!

    Since then, I’ve felt a shift in energy! I know this is what I need and I can’t wait to dig deep and see where this course takes us. I’m stoked to have this community of supportive sisterhood! Fall and pumpkin everything will be in full effect here Richmond, VA by the time our course starts and the perfect time to let go of so many things and make room for major possibilities!

    • Reply Patti August 23, 2016 at 7:54 am

      I’m transitioning into being an entrepreneur in the yoga and health and wellness coaching field and am suffering from imposter syndrome aka “not enoughness”

      Oh yes, Danielle, I know this feeling!

  • Reply Kirsten August 22, 2016 at 10:40 am

    I have already laughed so much and felt my heart squeezed tight just by reading these comments here. I’m a 31-year old mother of two (a four year old and a four month old) and am beyond thrilled to share this space with all of you. I’m a freelance writer, and my husband and I have spent the summer merging our career strengths to launch our own content marketing business. I’m simultaneously thrilled and exhausted by all of the big changes happening here (new house, new baby, new business!) and jumped at the opportunity for a workshop that would help me feel connected and grounded while the rest of my life is sometimes overwhelming. I’m in Southern Indiana, just outside of Louisville.

    Thanks for having me!

    KC

    • Reply Bianca Siwek August 24, 2016 at 10:55 am

      I feel your story! We also just moved homes, and my husband and I are merging our careers as well. Powerful transformations coming to form 🙂 It will be nice to put the energy on getting centered again. So nice to meet you!

  • Reply Jennifer Pastiloff August 22, 2016 at 12:59 pm

    I am so excited reading all of these comments!

  • Reply Patti August 23, 2016 at 7:52 am

    Hello all, I am Patti from North Carolina and stumbled across Jen’s page awhile back and thought…hey, writing and yoga, manifesting YOUR life, not giving into petty self-doubt, that is the deal. I decided in 2012 to pursue my yoga certification after years of complaining to a friend that I had moved to the boondocks and there was no studio here…she finally said, um, why don’t you start one? I did so in my garage apartment and now am opening the first ever yoga, Pilates, wellness center in our little town (Sept. 6). My oldest just went to college last week, I am 45 and feel the earth shaking me up to get going in this second half of life. I have two more children at home and a great husband who is simultaneously my biggest fan and sparring partner. Can’t wait to see where this all goes…and to know each of you. xo, P

  • Reply Sharon Henderson August 23, 2016 at 11:39 am

    Hi Jen,
    Thank you for offering this online class! I’m very excited to connect with you even more! Every woman needs you in their life! Xo
    Sharon, New Canaan, CT

  • Reply sabrina August 23, 2016 at 12:08 pm

    Hi all. I am a New Yorker that doesn’t live in NY anymore so life is always greener there. BUT, I live now in the Gulf Islands and that’s not so bad. Although it’s not NY. Nothing is NY, but NY. Ashley, I don’t know you but I think I love you because you are in NY.

    I fell down the rabbit hole of kids and am still deep in it but peaking up now and then so here I am to take some steps up. And not be an asshole, of course.

    xx

  • Reply Barbara Potter August 23, 2016 at 12:14 pm

    Hi Everyone, glad you are here. I am Barbara – Jen’s mom – also known as Mom-Barb….whatever you like. I am the business side of Jen’s work so feel free to contact me if needed with any questions or if you are not receiving your emails, etc. @barbara@jenniferpastiloff.com Please add that to your contacts to be sure you get any responses from me.

    I am so happy to meet all of you and also happy to re-connect with those I know already.

  • Reply Barbara Potter August 23, 2016 at 12:15 pm

    Barbara@jenniferpastiloff.com

  • Reply Tessa Benz August 23, 2016 at 12:17 pm

    Hello all!!! I am soooo excited to take part in this! I started following all of your sites, Jen, after learning of you from my dear friend, Sarah McKenna. I was supposed to do your workshop in Tampa with her last year but it just didn’t work out. (We moved to Charlotte, NC last year). I am 46 year, married, & mother of 3 daughters. I love being creative, adventures, & being outdoors. Why am I doing this??? Because I so desperately need to fall in love with me again (and maybe for the first time???) I can so relate to what you said, Michelle! I feel like there was/is the “outside me” that is conservative & conforming but inside I feel there is this other crazy, fun, creative, wild person that is just begging to be seen! Looking forward to interacting with you all.

  • Reply Christina August 23, 2016 at 3:13 pm

    Hi all! I’m Christina and I live in the middle of nowhere Montana, aka Glendive. I first stumbled across Jenn’s work because of an essay that Rachel had written, which really resonated with me. The dream is to someday make it to one of the retreats in Italy! Lol. I bought this workshop and the cleanse as I birthday present to myself. (I’ll be 35 next month.)

    I had a huge moment of darkness about a year ago. I have a 14 year old daughter who was diagnosed with scoliosis during that year before my private meltdown. She had a really rough year. She had to wear a brace all the time, even to school and the kids were really mean. (Aspen still does not have a single friend where we live and so I’m hoping to learn some ways that I will be able to help her be ok!). I had planned a trip and saved forever to be able to afford it. It was to Canada to see Niagara Falls and attend a one direction concert VIP. Anyway, her father, who is not involved in her life, wouldn’t sign her passport RENEWAL. That’s right, she had always had a passport. He didn’t do it because of her or because he was afraid I would kidnap her. He did it because he wanted to get back at me for some imaginary transgression. He’s a drug addict and an alcoholic btw. So I lost all faith in humanity last August and September. Then I pulled myself together. I still struggle sometimes, but it is what it is. Aspen is starting high school tomorrow and she is terrified to start without any friends, as I can well imagine. Alzheimer’s has ran in our family and my 69 year old mother is in the beginning stages I’m sure. I haven’t shared that with anyone, but I constantly struggle with leaving this place and getting aspen away or staying to help her. We don’t have a good relationship but she has changed in her old age. It’s hard to explain.

    I work in a casino and I stood here last night while a guy was literally screaming at me and I just stopped. I thought to myself, what am I doing? Indeed to leave and I need to give aspen a fighting chance to escape this place. The drugs are out of control for such a small town and the majority of the people aren’t very nice. My best friend moved away last week and I don’t know how I will stay sane at all now!

    We also have 2 naughty kittens we got just after Christmas, Denver & Jasper. They help keep aspen occupied at home a bit and definitely keep me busy. 😉

    • Reply tetia stroud August 30, 2016 at 3:24 am

      your words break my heart. to hear that your daughter is having such a tough time at school makes me so sad. my daughter started a non-profit that takes a serious look at female bullying (mean girls) and their website has lots of features that will at least let your daughter know that she is not alone. so check out kindcampaign.com and know that i will keep you and aspen in my prayers!! <3

      • Reply Christina September 8, 2016 at 3:25 am

        That is amazing! Thank you so much and I will definitely pass it on to her. 🙂

  • Reply Kylie Richards August 23, 2016 at 3:25 pm

    Hello Jen – I am Kylie Richards – coming to you from Sydney, Australia. I am not sure when or how I started following you – but life is like that – angels show up just when you need them. Joining up to this course – is to make time for me – to stop being too hard and an asshole to myself. I am worthy of great and beautiful things – bring them on world – I am ready. I have recently sold my rental property and my dream is to big a new place by the sea and start a foster care journey with a 5 year old little girl that is looking for me as I look for her. At age 43 and single – I didn’t think this would be how my family / kid dream would work out – but I also believe in destiny and fate – so maybe this is where my road has been taking me all along. Xx. I look forward to this course – the connection – and the magic it will bring. Jen – you rock xx

  • Reply Lisa Beach August 23, 2016 at 3:34 pm

    I am currently in Japan for three years after living in Santa Monica for a few years. My husband is out at sea till sometime in November, so my toddler and I are on our own for now. I need some adult interaction with people whose language I can understand, and with people I relate to (on things like doing love and not being an asshole). I run a business online that I love, but I need a break from running all the shows–I want to be a connector and a doer and part of a tribe… Not be in charge of absolutely everything in my life (and my husband’s via POA… and my son’s) for a while.

    • Reply Brandi Keller September 2, 2016 at 12:36 pm

      I take it your husband is in the Navy? I was and have many friends that were stationed in Japan. It’s got to he hard living somewhere because of your spouse, yet you don’t see much of him. So glad you are reaching out to connect!

  • Reply Rachel Pastiloff August 23, 2016 at 5:08 pm

    HELLO EVERYONE’!!!
    Rachel here, Jen’s sister. I live in Georgia, about an hour south of Atlanta I am the mother of two young sons, and I live on a mini farm. I’m so excited to be a part of this very special experience with all of you. I’m also so excited to be leading this very special and personal cleanse just with this group. This is going to be a very magical trip for all of us. I am counting down the days!

    Rachel

  • Reply Katherine Murray August 23, 2016 at 8:54 pm

    Hello Everyone..

    I live in Southern California and I’m writing this in the bath tub…my ‘me’ time…

    I loved reading everyone’s posts. All these different voices from all over the world. I find a piece of myself in all of your stories.

    Not only am I here because I love Jennifer and all the work that she does, I’m also here because I am a total asshole to myself. My asshole has been running the show for too long.

    I’m tired of all my excuses. I’m tired of pretending. I’m tired of hiding. I’m tired of letting the past ruin my beautiful present. I’m so ready to shed these stories that are no longer valid, if ever they were.

    I hope to unravel a little more by taking this course. I hope to discover ways on how to not let my asshole run my life. There’s got to be a badass beneath all these excuses, right?

    All these things but above all else, I hope to find a tribe.

    I am so looking forward to October…much love to you all!

  • Reply Nicole Dunn August 24, 2016 at 8:23 pm

    Hi Jen! Hi Everyone! I loved reading all the comments. I’m Nicole and I live in Sacramento, CA. I’m so excited about this series and one of these days will make it to a retreat. I am a mommy of a 5-year old amazing boy (also born May 19th!). I’ve been married to my husband for almost 8 years. I have a career in Sales leadership and have a team of 13 who report directly to me (scares me everyday I walk in the office…lol)

    I think what most excites me about this session is how terrified I am of it. No seriously – I’m freaking out about it. I don’t make time for personal growth and the first place for my growth and journey starts with vulnerability. This is making me be vulnerable. I NEED THIS – for my son, for my husband, for my team, but most importantly for ME! So in between work meetings, soccer mom, making dinner, blah blah blah I’m committing to myself. Thank you Jen!

    Oh and by the way – bought the Fuck Fear and Fly bracelet. Can’t wait to get it. I’m an f-bomb kind of girl!

  • Reply Cori August 25, 2016 at 11:14 am

    Hi everyone
    I’m a writer and mom of 2 teens in Vancouver, BC and I’m here because I’m in the midst of a major transformation. After 20 years, I just separated from my partner and it’s been quite the journey. The hardest part came before the decision to separate so now, I’m feeling the need to recreate and reimagine my life, partly so I’m not so dependent on my kids and partly because as they get older and I reclaim my own personal time, I can see a future where they aren’t here keeping me busy and insane. And I need to fill myself up again.
    I found Jen because my amazing sister told me we were doing similar things and that Jen’s work might inspire my own. Well, I was more than inspired. I was blown away! And I’m so excited to be part of this group. I wrote a book when my daughter was born about motherhood – it’s an anthology of different voices all about the experience of becoming a mother and the transformations that we experience as a result. And that book led me to teach writing classes to moms – online, at universities, at workshops. It was an amazing, soulful incredible experience – and all the comments here remind me of how we would share – but I had to stop and figure out how to make some real money to support my growing, expensive teenagers. So I’ve been sidetracked for a few years now and just figuring out how to reclaim that part of myself… I reconnected with all my writing students, moms from around the world…and invited them to my first writing /yoga retreat on an island close to where I live in British Columbia. I am so excited to have found a way back to that – to writing, and sharing stories and leading circles of women – and I’m so excited to have found that focus again and so excited to be here, to connect with some (all) of you here. I don’t know how we will keep it all straight – there are so many of us – and my memory isn’t what it used to be. Staying up until 2 am to drive teenagers home from parties is killing me! Anyway, I look forward to sharing stories and to helping each other kill the inner asshole that tries to control us all! Can’t wait until October!

  • Reply Jayne Schroeder August 25, 2016 at 12:34 pm

    Hello from Milwaukee, Wisconsin!
    I’m Jayne – Mother, Writer, Advocate, So Single It’s Humorous, and Recovered Asshole.
    I’ve been following Jen for about a year now, but only in the last six months have I been paying closer attention. So happy for this opportunity to connect and grow, Jen’s mission in life resonates deeply with me as I have spent the last 5 1/2 years undoing the tangled web that is assholery. I divorced in 2011, leaving behind twenty plus years of abuse from my controlling, gaslighting, narcissistic personality disorder totin’ ex-husband. He flew planes in the USAF and thought he was a pretty big shit. In his world, rules don’t apply to him. He did fourteen military deployments in our twenty year marriage while moving us all over this US of A every one to two years. Over the course of all that I gave birth to three kids in three different states. When my daughter was in middle school I looked at her and finally convinced myself that I’d rather live under a bridge with trolls than continue to set the example I was setting for her about love and relationships. I walked out of my marriage with $50 and just a few things, but with a shit-ton of faith that the Universe would clear a path for me and I’d come out okay in the end. Holy crap has it been transformative. I found yoga, I went back to writing, I stood up for myself, and I healed. If I’d stayed in my marriage, I’d surely be dead now. I firmly believe that. I’d have died from all the stuffing of emotions I was doing. Pure assholery. My body started shutting down on me in 2009, telling me basically, “Look I’ve been trying to get your attention for a long, long time, but you’re so busy being such an asshole, you didn’t pay attention. Now I’m going to show you!” And it did. I was diagnosed with some food allergies, Lupus, a blood disorder, and asthma. From there I added in Celiac Disease and a gaggle of more food allergies over the years. BUT – one year after leaving my husband, my Lupus labs were clear and I no longer have that diagnosis. Take your biggest stressor out of your life and start paying attention to you and you’ll be amazed of the good that can come! My story post-divorce is a like a bad after school special starring my family, but in the end, three of the five of our original family dynamic are okay. That’s better than 50% so I call that better than average odds despite the nightmare. My oldest son is estranged from me as his father did the polar opposite of everything you’re supposed to do with your kids during a divorce. I hope that one day he’ll gain the much-needed perspective he’ll need to fully succeed in life. Maybe he’ll come around, maybe he won’t. He knows my door is always open. My daughter is the example of what happens when you support girls in a healthy, nurturing, feminist, open-communicative household. She’s the bomb! A film major, a badass, and the most wonderful big sister to my third born, her brother. At the age of 30 I gave birth to my last baby, a toe-headed sweet cherub with an extra twenty-first chromosome. He has Down syndrome and at the age of five, he was diagnosed with autism. He’s 17 now and about to enter his Junior year of high school. He and I moved 1300 miles west to my hometown of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in December, from Maine. My family is here, my daughter goes to school here, and the opportunities for my son and I are so much greater here. It’s been a tough eight months filled with both beautiful and terrifying moments. You’ll be able to read a little more about my beautiful, messy life soon as Jen has recently picked up an essay of mine for publication on her site. I’m tickled pink with gratitude for the opportunity. So yes, I’m a wordy girl and if you’ve read this much, yay! So looking forward to “meeting” you all!
    xo- Jayne
    (pronounced like Jane)

  • Reply Tanya August 26, 2016 at 7:04 pm

    Hi Everyone,
    I’m already thrilled that I took the leap and signed up for this. I’m in Brooklyn. My family (me, my partner and 7 year old daughter) moved here 2 years ago after 20+ years in SF and the transition has been way harder and lonelier (and rougher on our relationship) than I anticipated. I grew up in NYC and my family’s here (that’s been great) as are 2 of my closest friends so it should be easy, right? I spend a lot of time trying not to be an asshole to myself because the move was rougher than I think it should have been….
    I’m an elementary teacher (though now I work mostly with other teachers and principals) and I just (last night) started a doctoral program in instructional leadership which I’m excited and anxious about. I went to Jen’s workshop in NYC last spring and tears pretty much poured down my face for 3 solid hours: such a release and so much compassion and strength in the room. I want more! So looking forward to connecting with all of you on this journey!

  • Reply Mikki August 28, 2016 at 2:14 pm

    Wow, what a group! Can’t wait to get into this further. I am in a small city in Kansas which I would desperately like to leave. I have three kids, 20, 18 and 16 so lots of transition there with kids moving away. I have been desperately stuck for many years now, where I feel I have lost myself. I don’t even recognize what I have become. I am the queen of big ideas for change and then being an asshole and not following through. I would love for this group to help me see myself with love and to kick me in the ass to make some changes. Can’t wait to see what happens in this space!

  • Reply Kim Foster August 29, 2016 at 11:23 pm

    Hi everyone! I’m very excited to be a part of this. I have spent the last 5 years kicking cancers ass. It was a tough battle with HER2 positive breast cancer, 20 rounds of Chemo, 14 surgeries more doctor appointments than I could count – but I beat that bitch! Anyhow I care across Jen during my fight and found her to be a breath of fresh air. Therefore when I heard about this workshop I couldn’t pass it up.
    I’m currently in the process of rebuilding ME, physically and emotionally. I’ve been the patient for a very long time and I’m not too sure who I am now. I look forward to this path of discovery.
    So thanks for this opportunity
    Kim from Tacoma, Washington

    • Reply Angela September 2, 2016 at 3:03 am

      Congratulations, Kim! That’s great news!
      (I’m also a former WA resident, attended UW and my family lives near Vancouver, Wa. but I’m now in Germany, missing the PNW!)

    • Reply Jen Anderson October 8, 2016 at 7:19 pm

      Kim, you are a TOTAL BADASS!!!! Way to slay that bitch called cancer. Fuck Cancer.
      Thank you for sharing your path with us.
      Shanti,
      Jen

  • Reply Amber Belsito August 31, 2016 at 10:25 am

    hello! I’m Amber and I’m in Connecticut. I was drawn to this because of the recent #nobullshitmotherhood threads from Jen. This resonates so hard core with me. (Just yesterday I got locked into the bathroom b/c my 4 year old was hanging on the door handle for so long that it broke. Might have been the most peaceful half hour of my day and my bathroom is sparkling now.) Anyway, I’m really looking forward to this journey and can’t wait to ‘meet’ you all.

    I work full time and I have two daughters – 6 and 4. They’re the lights of my life. I think that finding my inner voice and not being an asshole are so important for me as a mom who has 2 tiny girls watching her at all times (see above note about trying to go to the bathroom). Can’t wait! xoxo

    (My name is Amber Leblanc on FB)

  • Reply Jen Waldref August 31, 2016 at 4:35 pm

    Greetings from soggy Olympia, Washington, in the beautiful, lush (and did I mention soggy?) #upperleftUSA! I’m super excited to have signed up for both On Being Human and the 12 Day Cleanse with Rachel. I was drawn to this for a couple of reasons. First, because over the past two years I have given myself the ongoing gift of workshops and retreats (online and in person) that nurture my soul and provide a creative outlet and sense of community with others. I am a better wife, mother, colleague and professional because of these investments. Second, I met Jen at her Manifestation workshop in Seattle this past May (which was amazing), and I knew right away that I loved her way of helping people be their authentic selves. It just really resonated with me and made me feel safe and willing to push myself. I’m someone who just a couple of years ago had a very difficult time doing anything that requires the tiniest speck of vulnerability or opening up. Writing and yoga retreats have been wonderful in helping me overcome a lot of my self-consciousness and self-doubt. As for the cleanse…I turned 44 this year. I had my last (of 3) kiddos at the age of 36. That last pregnancy was hard on my body. It was high-risk (I suffered a subchorionic hemorrhage and was on bed rest for a while), and unlike my previous 2 pregnancies, I returned to work fairly quickly afterwards. I just haven’t bounced back to my 36-year-old pre-pregnancy shape, and that’s been hard on me psychologically. I don’t even think it’s unrealistic for me to get back to that point, because I was already over 35 with stretch marks. I looked great, though, and felt great. I want to feel that way again. I need to lose 25 pounds, which isn’t a lot in the grand scheme of things, but it’s been really incredibly difficult (obviously, since it’s 8 years later and I’m still trying!). I get about 5-7 pounds down, it lasts for a few months and then slowly creeps back. I need to try something new, and this is the first time I’m actually putting that out there in public. I’m pretty private about my feelings of body shame. Anyway, I am looking forward to both writing and healthy eating within this supportive community. xo

    • Reply Sarah Hitman September 9, 2016 at 2:05 pm

      hi jen! i was in the EXACT same place with my body after baby #3 which I had at 37ish… I jumped off a cliff and did this AHAMZING thing called the Whole Life Food Challenge. It lasted 8 weeks and four years later is still totally impacting my life. It not only changed the way I ate but it changed how I thought about food. I modeled in my teens and twenties and have always had a super bad relationship with food. (I never tell anyone I modeled because I hate all the BS that comes with people’s preconceived notions) But the truth is that modeling really messed up my perception of food and of course the way I view my physical self. I have some pretty serious body shaming issues too. I guess that’s what inspired me to reply to you, my eyes got HUGE when I read that line in your post. I’ve never really owned it like you did. SO, thanks for being open. big hug to you, sarah (denver, co)

    • Reply Jen Anderson October 8, 2016 at 9:59 am

      Hey Jen, I’m another Jen from #UpperLeftUSA too. Seattle. The change of the seasons is a perfect time for a little self examination. The return of the rain, for catharsis. And the darkness, a time to turn inward.

      Peace,
      Jen

  • Reply Angela September 2, 2016 at 3:13 am

    Hello all,
    my name is Angela and I live in Germany with my German husband and our 10 month old son (in Berlin). I am a stay at home mom at the moment, after working in a preschool for several years, and am doing some soul searching about what to do career wise once little one goes to daycare. Writing has always been something I want to do, but apart from some poetry and family things I haven’t done much to that end. I love Jen’s raw honesty, realness and positivity, and of course #nobullshitmotherhood. <3 Someday I hope to make it to a retreat in person, but am excited about this opportunity as well! I look forward to connecting with you all and hope we can inspire, encourage, empower one another to take the next steps toward our life goals that drew us to the workshop in the first place. That's why I'm here 🙂
    (Anja Evangeline on facebook)

  • Reply Sue September 4, 2016 at 9:09 am

    Hi, I’m Sue from Portland, Oregon. What drew me to this workshop was the amazing Jen because I had the great fortune to be in the workshop she did here last March with Lidia Yuknavitch. I just manifested myself a new job, so I’m looking forward to this workshop even more than when I signed up because it would be way too easy for me not to take time for myself as I learn and do all kinds of new stuff. I love that the intent is time set aside for us. Of course, I’m also thrilled about the workshop because JEN.

  • Reply Tabitha September 5, 2016 at 10:23 pm

    Hello! I’m Tabitha and I live just south of Portland, Oregon. I was drawn to this workshop experience because of the way Jen described yearning for community, which is something I’ve been dealing with and trying to navigate recently. Portland is changing so drastically, and it’s difficult to participate in literary events like readings and events like I used to. Traffic and congestion is becoming a huge issue and living/commuting from the suburbs has left me feeling marooned off in the distance. I graduated from my MFA program four years ago, and there has been much growing apart in that community I once thought was “forever,” in that same naive way that you made promises in your high school yearbook to keep in touch. I’d like to feel that connection with other writers that I used to have, that pushed and propelled me forward. It seems like I’m perpetually in search of a place and belonging, so I guess this is the next step.

  • Reply Stephanie Holm September 7, 2016 at 11:54 pm

    Hi all!! I am beyond excited to be a part of this tribe!! I’m over here in middle America, the Paris of the Midwest – Omaha, NE. ? I’m a former police officer (disabled – long story…which I hope I can release in this process). I’ve been following you, Jen, for over a year now, but do not have the means to come to one of your retreats – hence my pure ENCHANTMENT with being able to attend this online group!

    I love to write and feel my writing has been stifled for the last eight years since my permanent disability shattered my world. I’m so looking forward to opening my heart and releasing the pain my soul has been holding onto. “I’m on the second leg of a return trip home to being me.”

  • Reply Wendy September 8, 2016 at 5:05 am

    Hello there! I am Wendy and I live just outside of Athens GA. We relocated here 2+ years ago after living in SC for 15. I joined this group because I feel like I am missing connections, or just not making them. I don’t know. I have met many, many people, and made plenty of friends-women I love and enjoy, but I am missing the deeper part of those friendships, and I am sure it is me that is holding back. I attended Jens retreat in VT just over 2 years ago and came home feeling the same way, that I missed something. That I held back, and missed some valuable lessons and deeper connections with the women that I shared space with and thought so much of. I wanted to go back and have a do over. I attended the workshop in ATL, and I distinctly remember my post it note-I was afraid that I would not be able to make the kind of friends that I had in SC here in GA ,that I would not have my ‘tribe’ and would not form those bonds. And here I am. What am I really afraid of? Why do I hold back? I often write more honestly, more from my bones, than I speak. The veil my laptop provides allows me to be more open, and I am hoping this online version will be the key I need to open up whatever I have locked away.

  • Reply Mary Jo September 8, 2016 at 8:22 am

    Hello everyone. I’m Mary Jo and I live just north of Atlanta, GA. I’ve been following Jen’s posts on and off for a few years. I think what calls me into this is the opportunity to be authentic. I am really good at fitting in to other people’s expectations of who I should be. I’ve done this since I was 10 years old and moved to a new town, school, community. I learned how to figure out what I needed to do to “look the part”. But I always felt/feel a lacking of not being good enough. It occurred to me recently that I am living my “good life” based on what I think will be acceptable to others. I hate to be criticized or judged. I’m the consummate good girl and people pleaser. What scares me about a group like this is my tendency to “craft the right answers so that I will be accepted” instead of being myself. My goal is to stay with myself and be comfortable and compassionate with ME. And not to turn to food or solitaire or online surfing when I feel less than. To learn to stay with ME and be good to me.

  • Reply Nancy September 8, 2016 at 8:57 am

    Connection! I need connection, inspiration a kick in the ass. I quit my job 3 years ago to take care of my mother (Alzheimer’s/cancer) who passed in June. The best thing I ever did, but it had a cost; Isolation and separation from community and friends. Some people I was close to did not make it to the place I am today. I raised 3 kids mostly alone, I have experienced loss and hardship before but I always had work/purpose. Kids are grown, grands are in middle school…the loss of my mom, my purpose, has seriously thrown me. I need to rediscover what I WANT, what I NEED? I haven’t a clue…I am…lost.

  • Reply Crystal-lee Quibell September 8, 2016 at 10:13 am

    My name is Crystal-lee, I live in Ontario, Canada. I’m a writer, a mother of three, wife to Dan for 11 years. I always struggle to hear people (I have a slight hearing impairment), and also to feel heard. I signed up to try and be more vulnerable without expectations. Expectation is the thief of my joy most often. So I wanted to do something where I had no idea what to expect. Looking forward to everything. <3

  • Reply Tanya Ward Goodman September 8, 2016 at 11:01 am

    Howdy friends!
    I’m Tanya. I live in Los Angeles. I’m a writer (my memoir “Leaving Tinkertown” is about my dad and Alzheimer’s). I continue to write a lot about parenting and caregiving, but often don’t take very good care of myself. My goal for my New Year (which always begins in September when the kids go back to school) is to find more ways to be gentle with myself and go deeper on the things that really matter to me. Looking forward to being with you all. xx

  • Reply Rachel Burke September 8, 2016 at 4:42 pm

    Hello all!

    My name is Rachel and I live in Chicago, where I am attending nursing school. This past year has been a crazy, terrible, wonderful adventure and I am looking to find some calm and balance in my life now that the storm has passed. I have found myself feeling this pull toward deeper and more meaningful connection and community, as well as the need to move past some situational uncertainty and emotional stagnancy. When Jen announced her online workshop, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to set aside time for self-expression and self-love, and to explore a new type of connection and community. As I read through everyone’s comments, I am already so excited to start growing and sharing and doing love together! My hopes for this course are to find the courage to be open and vulnerable with myself and others, to allow the words onto the paper (keyboard?) without self-judgement or fear, to learn something new, and (of course!) to not be an asshole.

    Much love,

    Rachel
    nursing student, dog mom, coffee enthusiast (addict), aspiring yogi, lover of all things science-y & nature-y

  • Reply Gemma Leghorn September 9, 2016 at 2:24 pm

    Hi everyone, so thrilled to be here with all of you. I discovered Jen’s work online a few years ago, and realized that whenever I read her words, I feel more compassionate and accepting of myself. I want to keep moving forward with this, and I know I have a lot of work to do! I’m a writer spending most of my time in the Adirondacks with my partner and dog, but traveling quite a bit to Massachusetts, where I’m originally rom, and where my work is based. Before this, I lived and worked on Cape Cod and then in Provincetown specifically, on what felt like the tip of the world. In my free time, I’m working on a collection of stories with female protagonists that explore themes along gender/humanity/animal lines. I am so eager to finish this collection, but something is holding me back, and I feel that I’m censoring myself. Anyway, that’s one of many places I can grow and learn! Thank you all so much for your honesty and love, and Jen for making this space possible–I look forward to getting to know all of you.
    Gemma

  • Reply Michelle Riddell September 9, 2016 at 2:41 pm

    Hey, Jen and the rest! I already left a comment, but I wanted to ask how I get to the secret FB page? My email is michellelriddelll@gmail.com , but I don’t think my FB account is linked to that. ??? My FB is Michelle Riddell. I’m kind of tech-klutzy.

    Big love, anyway.

  • Reply Tracy McQuay September 9, 2016 at 3:28 pm

    Hi. My name is Tracy and I live in Carson City, Nevada (30 miles from Tahoe, 30 miles from Reno). I was drawn to this workshop by a FB share from the lovely Gayle Brandeis, a woman and writer I respect. If she recommends working with Jen then that is all I needed to sign up.

    I have two children (ages 19 and 23). One in college and one on his own path. I am re-married. I taught elementary school for 20 years. And I am afraid.

    The other day I saw a FB quote, maybe it’s considered a meme. It had a nondescript, pleasantly green, suggestively botanic background with an Elizabeth Gilbert quote that read, “Do you have the courage to find the hidden treasures within you?” And I said to myself, yes. Yes, I have the courage. I had the courage to survive the death of my mother as a young child, the courage to survive a childhood that included every abuse a child can endure, the courage to divorce a man who didn’t love me, the courage to admit teaching public school was not satisfying my authentic self anymore and the courage to seek treatment at the age of 42 for a wicked eating disorder I kept secret since high school.

    The courage is there, but I fear the treasure is not.

    I don’t care about being a badass. I just want to know that I can make a difference. That I matter. That all that fighting and surviving meant more than dusting my front room and putting away the dishes and reading yet another self-help book. This is my fourth year of not being in the classroom. It took a leap of faith to leave that career. I was going to write once I wasn’t teaching. September comes and I panic. No manuscript written, no closer to ‘my dream’ than before. No net has appeared and I guess I’m afraid that I don’t have what it takes to be a real somebody after all.

    So, that’s why I’m here.

  • Reply Maria September 9, 2016 at 8:26 pm

    Hi all! My name is Maria & I am currently in Chicago…..soon to be in Italy with Ms Jen, mom Barb, & delicious baby CharlieMel! SOOOOOOOOOOO stoked!!!
    I took Jen’s workshop in Chicago last year and was forever changed. I swear, I levitated out the door of the studio that day! As life happened, I found more subtle links to Jen & the amazing work that she does until, upon returning from a yoga retreat at the SAME place she was scheduled to stay, I got the notification about the retreat in Italy.
    SO…I knew it was MEANT for me to be there when, I learned that it started mere days after my 50th b-day & her mom & my (deceased) mom share the same name. Last month, my younger brother was murdered and his death has opened a Pandora’s box of emotions that I thought had been “handled”….wrong. AGAIN, the timing could not be more perfect.
    I don’t believe in coincidence, but I do believe in a divine plan & free will. (both/and rather than either/or, as my therapist often reminds me…)
    I KNOW that this trip will be life changing and I KNOW that being part of this group is a part of that journey to find my purpose and what I was brought here to do…

    I am SO very grateful for Jen & the work that she does….for her raw, honest, & authentic self and the way that she shares it all so generously. I am so grateful to be a part of this group and look forward to sharing and supporting each other through the process. I am hopeful that I will finally make some real progress in my struggle for self acceptance and can finally end decades of treating myself like a piece of crap, telling myself that I’m not good enough….for WHAT?!
    I know I’m not alone in feeling this way and I also know that the crazy b/witch in my head who tells me otherwise only does so for her own ulterior motives.
    I am ready to shed all that CRAP!
    I want to be able to say, unequivocally, that I AM DOING love!

    Thanks everyone….love to you all! xo

  • Reply Beth Eyler September 10, 2016 at 12:36 pm

    Hi all, I am Beth and I live in Portland, Oregon. I have a 5 year old daughter who just finished her first week of kindergarten. I am feeling pretty lost in my life and many obligations right now. Most days I just want to hide under the blankets and wish the world out of exsistance for a little while. I joined this on a whim. I have a bad habit of starting and not finishing things like this so here’s hoping I follow thru.

  • Reply Sunny B. September 10, 2016 at 1:54 pm

    I am here because I believe in Jen, I believe in her work, I always want to be a part of important, life changing energy and I am a constant student. I’ve been to about 6 of her Ojai retreats. It’s my thing. I’m almost 49 (fuck!), I live in Orange County (CA), pretty privileged life, an 18 y.o. son that just started (jr) college and a 14 year old daughter that just started high school. I have a husband that loves and supports me (literally and figuratively) and the “house with a white picket fence” on a cul-de-sac. I do the bookkeeping for his/our business (is the airconditioning business “my” business too? or his?) and set my own hours. And I volunteer at the kids schools – alot. I should feel grateful every day. I should feel empowered and confident (what do YOU have to complain about?). Not being an asshole to myself, finding my voice and having the courage to speak it out loud has been a life long journey for me. I am a woman who feels loved but not satisfied, feels grateful but wants more/different, has every material possession she desires, but doesn’t own herself completely. So being human, ya…. I’ve been “just a girl” my whole life, and I am ready to redefine what that means. And Jen has been a big part of me finding, first the heart, than the anger, than the desire to rise/wake up (from years of being asleep at the wheel of my own life). Grateful to be here. To be of service. And to continue my journey.

    • Reply Gerri Ravyn Stanfield September 10, 2016 at 11:18 pm

      Whoa, I have to think about not being an asshole to MYSELF? Wow, Sunny, that’s a whole new level. You are awesome!

    • Reply Molly Donofrio September 11, 2016 at 6:31 pm

      (what do YOU have to complain about?). Not being an asshole to myself, finding my voice and having the courage to speak it out loud has been a life long journey for me. I am a woman who feels loved but not satisfied, feels grateful but wants more/different, has every material possession she desires, but doesn’t own herself completely.

      ^^^^This!!!! Are you in my head???

    • Reply Ingrid October 8, 2016 at 5:50 pm

      Love you, Sunny!

  • Reply Kaitlin Kovacs September 10, 2016 at 2:07 pm

    Hello from Gainesville, Florida! I discovered Jen via Rachel Brathen (oneOeight) and her (your – I guess you’re reading this, Jen) words resonated with me (I have watched the “You Are Enough” mediation countless times). A few years back I graduated with my masters (and an obscene amount of student loan debt) – and was then unemployed for almost two years. This was an incredibly jarring experience as I applied to over 200 jobs and I sunk into a pretty deep depression, which made job hunting even more unbearable. I moved back home at the age of 28 to help my family take care of my grandmother, who was diagnosed with severe dementia. After four years of care-giving, I was officially diagnosed with depression (largely due to the isolation from friends and human connection). My family recently moved my grandmother into a care-ward and I’m slowly starting to adjust to a life that is all my own, and not dictated by anyone else. But I have found that I don’t know what I want. I have perfected the art of taking care of others, but myself? That’s a whole different ball game. I feel stuck – and I want reason to focus on me, me, me! I saw this workshop advertised and just knew, this would be a great next step in the journey that is my often complicated, usually messy, but awfully amazing life 🙂 Looking forward to the adventure!

    • Reply Christin Lilly September 11, 2016 at 10:00 pm

      Kaitlin –
      I did an internship with the Alzheimer’s Association this past spring and met so many amazing families and caregivers of those with dementia. Working there and interacting with those people seriously changed my life. You are so brave and awesome for taking on that journey!

  • Reply Gerri Ravyn Stanfield September 10, 2016 at 11:03 pm

    These comments! Wow! I feel honored to be among you brave and beautiful people. I am so freaking excited about Jen’s first online class!!!! I am confronting fear face to face, just released my first book into the world on the one year anniversary of my husband suddenly walking out on me after 17 years. And that awakened both my own healing journey and my inner healer! I need this class and community to remind me to be gentle with my imperfections and to live myself deeper and harder everyday!

    • Reply Gerri Ravyn Stanfield September 10, 2016 at 11:04 pm

      Whoops! Forgot to say Portland, Oregon! Love to you all,
      Ravyn

    • Reply Elena W October 3, 2016 at 8:16 pm

      Hi Ravyn. I’m here too.

      • Reply Elena W October 3, 2016 at 8:16 pm

        Hi Ravyn. I’m here too. Nice to see you here. 🙂

  • Reply Sarah Gail Hitman September 11, 2016 at 1:38 pm

    Hello from beautiful Denver, CO… I’ve been stalking Jen on Instagram for several months now and when I saw the chance for more of her brutal honesty, I jumped! I’m a 41 year old mom of four kids and am addicted to tennis at the moment. I’ve been so blessed in my life to experience such a wide range of perspectives but I don’t know why. I have walked runways in NYC, I have worked night shift driving tractors, I have been at 9 births, 1 death, met my spirit guide, remade vintage costume jewelry for 15 years, attended week long silent meditation retreats, raised(ing) four beautiful humans, built a house from the foundation up… like really, the list could go on and on but it’s SO annoying!!
    The question for me is…. WHY???!! Why I am here? Why have I led such a great life? What is the point of all these experiences??
    I do know a few things. I KNOW I was put here to help people… I KNOW that I have this crazy knack for getting complete strangers to spill their guts. I KNOW I can connect with ANY human if I want to. I also know that my youngest child will be in school full time in a couple years and in the meantime I need to figure out WHY I am here.
    No big deal. Just signed up for this online course to figure out my purpose in life.
    And as sarcastic as that was, it makes my stomach hurt to type it.
    loved & cried reading everyone’s post & am excited for this adventure, Sarah (usually sg)

  • Reply Molly Donofrio September 11, 2016 at 6:28 pm

    Hi! I’m Molly and I’m from Indianapolis. (well, just outside of it, in Zionsville) I “found” you from my friend Sarah Stukas, who attended a workshop and raved about it. I immediately understood why as soon as I heard you speak! No bullshit is my language.
    I have been searching/studying/chasing/praying for/meditating on/crying about/freaking out about my life and it’s meaning for as long as I can remember. In the past few years a lot has changed, and yet, I still feel like something big is around the corner. I continue to wait for it to be revealed to me, but I think it’s time to take the bull by the horns and create it for myself! (Problem is, I don’t know what “it” is!)
    In my day to day life, I’m a stay at home mom of 4 young kiddos, just having my most recent baby on July 22. Being so fresh from having a baby makes me question life even more, as I look at him and think “who will you become?”
    I can’t wait to connect with everyone and get to know you all and see where this course takes us!

  • Reply Tina Moore September 11, 2016 at 8:17 pm

    Hi Jennifer,
    I saw someone write about how amazing you were and then saw it for myself. I’m thrilled to be a part of this course and learning so much. I need to stop being an asshole to myself and loving everyone else even when they are an asshole to me. I live in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Glad to be here.

  • Reply Christin Lilly September 11, 2016 at 9:53 pm

    Hi, I’m Christin!
    I’m from Johnson City, TN, but I currently live in Grafenwoehr, Germany where my husband is stationed with the Army. I’m 23 years old and we have two cats (one old fart who sleeps all the time and one 3 month old kitten), but no kids. The area we live in is absolutely beautiful, so I love getting outdoors and we’re trying to travel as often as we can while we’re here.
    I’ve been following Rachel Brathen for years and joined oneOeight, where I found Jennifer’s classes to be a godsend. The themes to the classes really changed yoga for me, and I haven’t been able to look back since!
    After graduating with my bachelor’s degree in May and moving to Germany, where jobs are scarce for military spouses and my husband is gone quite frequently, I’ve really been struggling to find my purpose. Most days for me consist of waking up, going to the grocery store and gym, watching Netflix, waiting on my husband to come home when he’s here, and making dinner. After being in school and working as long as I can remember, it’s a complete 180 from what I’m used to. This workshop has come at the perfect time with this huge transition in my life and I’m so excited to learn how to not be an asshole to myself anymore.

  • Reply Linda H September 12, 2016 at 6:34 am

    Hi everyone (kisses to you Jen, Mom-Barb and Charlie Mel)! I live in the suburbs of NYC (NJ) having moved out of the Big Apple last summer. I still commute into Manhattan 4 days a week to get to my job where I help save the world (at least statistically). After many huge transitions in the past 5 years (international and local moves, separation, divorce, parenting alone, etc), I am ready for some tranquility. I was on the hedge about registering for this course — another online course… But, this is a Jen-course which means it is not just another online thing. Jen’s retreats have been life changing for me. Yet, I seem to have gotten lost in the past year. can’t seem to make connections or I judge them/me/anything that looks at me. I guess I’m stuck in Brandi’s pool of stagnated goals 😉

    my personal expectations of my life and myself are nuts and perhaps are preventing me for achieving that tranquility i seek. looking forward to whatever shows up through this experience. xx

  • Reply Lorraine September 12, 2016 at 1:59 pm

    Hello!

    From Santa Clarita Valley, CA – I am so excited to be here, Jen I have quietly followed you for some time – you are an inspiration!

    I currently quit my job (need to find a new one) and I guess you could say I am going through a bit of a transition in life, wanting to start up my Life Coaching and Reiki Healing business up and eventually work for myself. I came across the posting on FB for this course and just on a whim decided to sign up, or maybe it was divine intervention guiding me to do so, whatever it was I am here and looking forward to it.

    Best,
    Lorraine

  • Reply Adrian Wilson September 12, 2016 at 8:42 pm

    I currently live in Urbandale, Iowa. I have a “spirited” 3 year old daughter and just gave birth to our son. I am really looking forward to finding myself again. I love being a mommy but am constantly trying to spend time on myself. So excited to be a part of this journey!

  • Reply Kerima Rahim-Gill September 13, 2016 at 7:16 am

    I’m joining you guys from Trinidad in the Caribbean. My best friend Lorraine turned me on to your page. I’ve been an asshole to myself pretty much all my life and it needs to stop once and for all. I have 3 beautiful children and I want to make sure I teach them how not to be an asshole to others and especially themselves.

  • Reply Minna Melanie Mustapaa September 13, 2016 at 9:03 am

    Hi everyone! So excited to be part of this awesome group and experience. I’m Minna, originally from Finland, lived in a few places and now back in London after having spent the past year in Switzerland and the Bay Area. For the past couple of years I have really checked in with my trusted source and really following my gut. This has lead to awesome unexpected manifestations and Jen your yoga practices on oneoeight really helped me release into this trust and flow. I love Jen’s sharing on instagram and find you such an inspiration, I love your energy and that is what really drew me to this journey. Sending you all lots of light, healing and love!

    • Reply Tanja N October 8, 2016 at 3:21 pm

      Hi Minna! Lovely to meet another Finn here. Looking forward to this experience!

  • Reply Sara September 13, 2016 at 10:36 am

    Hi! I’m Sara, joining you from western Massachusetts. Over the past 5 years I’ve gone through a process of redefining myself after a pretty traumatic divorce and while co-parenting my now 7 year old. I’ve done a lot of great work in that time- getting trained as a yoga teacher, building a class schedule and starting a small garden/herbal business. But – there’s always a but- I feel like I’m still working through a couple of things (probably more than a couple, lol)- namely the sadness at not finding a life partner (yet). And this feeling that I’m holding back my work a bit, through fear. I want to bust through that shit.:-) That’s all!

  • Reply Tina F September 13, 2016 at 6:56 pm

    Hi all – I’m Tina and am joining you from Watertown MA; just outside Boston. Reading all of the posts makes me excited to share this experience with you all. I’ll write more of an intro when it’s not so late to give more of the details of what brings me here (other than Jen, with whom I’ve taken 2 workshops at Kripalu in western MA).

    The short “must knows”: 45 years old, never married, no kids (still dealing with that…), chronic helper, unsuccessful at self-care, very successful professionally, love wine, vegetarian, mostly dairy and gluten free, hard of hearing, hard on myself, afraid of parts of my voice (meaning, in some ways, I am very comfortable with speaking my truth but not in all ways), miss my Dad who I lost 10 months ago this Friday, beauty seeker trying to see and own my own beauty, work in progress.

    Can’t wait to do this! ?

    • Reply Ingrid October 8, 2016 at 5:51 pm

      Love you Tina!

  • Reply Jen September 14, 2016 at 1:11 pm

    Hi there, I’m Jen from Cambridge, MA. I found Jen through the GirlPowerYouAreEnough instagram and became really inspired by her posts. Her recent post, “What if you stopped being an asshole to yourself?” really spoke to me, so I followed the link and signed up. I have a tendency towards negative self-talk, and impose a ridiculous amount of pressure on myself daily (as if life doesn’t already put enough pressure on me!). It’s become a real issue that I want to focus on so I can become a calmer and happier person. Stats: 36, divorced, currently in a wonderful live-in relationship, intense and demanding advertising career, auntie to 2 lovely little girls, planning on having a child of my own hopefully in the next year. Happy to be joining this inspiring group 🙂

  • Reply Shannon September 21, 2016 at 6:39 pm

    Hello all. I’m Shannon and I’m currently in Indianapolis, Indiana. I excel at being an asshole to myself. I truthfully consider myself to be a single mom of 2, but mine are my parents at 67 & 70 years old. I’m a part time carer for them. Dad is a stroke patient and my mom has cancer. I am deciding to take some time for myself first and uncover my own stuff. I saw this opportunity and signed up. I’m open to whatever happens. I have no expectations, and I am very excited to be joining the group for this journey.

  • Reply Carling Harps October 3, 2016 at 9:56 am

    Hi all. I’m Carling and I’m currently living in Seattle, Washington. I’m pretty great at taking care of others and also telling people how very important it is to take care of themselves but then somehow still feeling anxious, shitty and thoroughly un-taken-care of (pretty sure that’s totally a word) much of the time. My partner and I travel all over the place and teach yoga a large percentage of the time but as wonderful as that is, and as wonderful as he is… as I get older and further away from the settled down lifestyles of my longtime/childhood friends, I’m realizing how desperately I miss having strong group of women in my life. I’ve followed Jennifer in the yoga-sphere for a while now and always resonated with her writing and no-bullshit approach, really looking forward to connecting with you all and sharing this time together!

  • Reply Kate October 3, 2016 at 11:05 am

    Hello! I’m Kate from Boca Raton, FL. Recently went through a lot of transitioning with a group of toxic people who were in my life and, ultimately, bit the bullet a few months ago and separated myself.
    Although, in the long run, I know it was the decision I was meant to make, it left me very alone and feeling disconnected. In this period of transition, I want to take advantage of my alone time and figure out how to improve myself and how I connect to others.

  • Reply Sarah Osmer DiMattina October 3, 2016 at 11:08 am

    Hello all! I am SO excited to be a part of this experience — don’t let my delay to post fool you. I’m Sarah and I live in Southwest Florida (Fort myers, FL to be exact) with my husband and three-year-old daughter. I am here because grief and loss broke open my heart. I lost my mom and a pregnancy and had a seriously craptastic couple of years. However I discovered in the process –with the help of my good friends writing, art, yoga–that my grief also held gifts. I learned that I couldn’t do it alone, that we can only heal in community, and that I had a choice to meet my heartbreak and pain with love. It’s been a wild and wonderful journey and I am not quite sure where it is leading me, but I hope this course will help me to discover the next steps. I heard about Jen through fellow writers/parents-who-write, and they raved about her retreats. I’ve been scoping out her retreat schedule and most are not within my reach at the moment, so hearing about this online class felt like serendipity! Looking forward to connecting and hearing your stories too, and sharing in this experience with you all. <3

  • Reply Elena W October 3, 2016 at 8:25 pm

    Hi all. I’m so inspired to be among strong and brave women. I’m Elena from Portland, OR. I am 40 years old. I have a feisty four year old daughter and a great husband. I just finished my first manuscript (a middle grade novel about grief). I have Stage 4 breast cancer — it has been almost 10 years since my first (of three) diagnoses. My treatment is currently working and my current quality of life is great. I try to be grateful for each day that I wake up functional and without pain. I am thankful for all of the many positives in my life. I was attracted to this course because I would love to give up perfection. And I would love to set that example for my daughter. I grew up in a situation — my mother died when I was 5, my father was emotionally absent, and I had a controlling step-mother — where perfection was the only option. I work hard to shed it like an ill-fitting, dried up old snake skin. So this course was an immediate draw. Thank you.

  • Reply Camille Sheppard October 3, 2016 at 9:45 pm

    Hi Everyone. I’m Cami. I live in Seattle – where I’ve lived for my whole life. Recently ended a 30 year marriage and am moving to the Olympic peninsula as soon as I finish building a house. 3 kids – 20, 23 and 25 – all out of the house and on their way. Youngest one is in college and the other two are finished. Time for me to live my own life now. I never knew that I even had permission to have my own life before I got married. Now I get to learn what that means. Its been a rough ride for the last several years and I’m pretty worn out. I’m a stumbling along writer and photographer but mostly lately I’ve just been trying to get my life onto a track that will hold it so I can figure out what I will do next and how I’ll support myself in the future.

  • Reply Sian October 4, 2016 at 12:17 am

    Hi Everyone ❤️✨?
    My name is Sian (Sharn) – I’m from Perth, Western Australia, currently living in Sydney. I’ve been following Jen on social media for a while now after falling completely in love with The Manifest-Station website!!
    Lately I have fallen back into old patterns. Constant anxiety attacks, not letting up on absolutely every imperfect thing I do, giving up on dreams that feel too overwhelming and out of reach – plastering on the happy smile & pushing through most days just hoping to get to bed in the evenings.
    Reading all of these comments has left me feeling so connected to so many souls living all over the world right now, living lives & doing their best to love their fleshy-human selves xxxxx what an incredible treat xxx so looking forward to this journey

  • Reply Julia Standing October 4, 2016 at 2:00 am

    Hello from Brighton in the UK.
    Really excited about doing this course, as I could have made your London workshop. X

  • Reply Nicola Roberts October 4, 2016 at 7:31 am

    Hello, I’m Nic, and I live in Orlando, FL. I’m originally from North Wales in the UK though. I attended Jen’s ‘On Being Human’ workshop in Tampa in Janaury, and I loved it! I’m looking forward to sharing time with like minded women, and to spend some valuable me time, looking after myself.

  • Reply Pam Ledwith October 4, 2016 at 12:04 pm

    Hello from beautiful Michigan in all its autumn glory! I’m Pam and I will be celebrating my 66th birthday on October 9th as we begin this course together! My dearest friend Donna Haber introduced me to Jen. It will be exciting to share this journey with her and all of you! My life is truly my own now. I am living alone (with three kitties), retired, divorced, have two grown kids and two grandkids, and I can choose each day. It’s time to move from wondering and fear to knowing and courage. I choose this!

  • Reply Magi Gorgieva October 5, 2016 at 7:17 am

    Hi beautyfull tribe, I am joining you from Berlin, Germany. Couldn’t do the workshops live so far. But I’m very happy to do it online now. I hope to finally find a way to get myself out of my way. Thanks for this awsome opprtunity. Love from Berlin to the world!!

  • Reply Lina Iorgovan October 5, 2016 at 7:55 am

    Paris, France, Worldwide girl.

    Hi Jen and her tribe ! I am so honored to be at least here ! ❤️❤️❤️

    I hesitate so much on writing this comment and express myself about my life. My heart is aching deeply right now, since I am passing through a high roll-coster of awesome and not awesome things. Suchs as my grandpa has 99% chanc to have cancer, and in the meanwhile me and my best friend, we dont talk anymore but we live in the same house. Heartbroken. I am trying to find a way in my life right now. I feel like a huge asshole to myself in this moment since I am thinking I am not good enough to go forward and help people with my “business”, meaning Reiki, massage , grief counseling.
    Let me explain. I just did 26 this September 23th, my grandma died in October 8th 2010, and since then I had never felt the same again, and I miss her deeply. My birthday is not anymore celebrated as before. Since her death, my family split for good. Mom and dad were divorced long before her death without her knowing. I always felt anger toward themselves, but just at this point in my life , came to a point of forgiveness to them. I felt like nothing could compare the love my grandma had for me, but now I understand that love is the same, but different expressed. I always was told that I should think before speak and that sometimes my dreams are too big for my budget or reality. Now I want to prove myself everything is possible. I left Romania ( I am originary from there ) and come in Paris when I was 22, living since then, with this friend that I feel she doesnt care anymore about our friendship. I found a healing discovering Hay House and Wayne Dyer, and I intend to be the best selling author at this self-publisher.
    I am working now, as a full-time waitress, to raise money and sustain my ideals, to help people and do the badass Reikie and grief counseling.

    From this course I hope I can gain that confidence in myself, even if I know is somewhere, there for me. I love Jen very much, and I am so lucky I met her last year. Was such a blessing for me.

    Love you all ,

    Lina IORGOVAN

  • Reply Dany October 5, 2016 at 1:28 pm

    Hello!
    Recently met Jen in Italy – a miracle encounter and fabulous retreat – and continuing the journey; equinox and openings, and connection and love, and inspiration, and gorgeous people, and oh so much more.
    Greetings from Eastern Canada, in the midst of our glorious Indian summer. May splashes of colour and bursts of intensity colour your days! And it’s Thanksgiving here this weekend, in the full of harvest season. What a way to start the course. Best to all.

  • Reply Sara Crane October 5, 2016 at 10:13 pm

    Hi, my name is Sara and I live in Central/Northern California (1 hour or so South of San Francisco). I am childless and in my mid-30’s. I have dedicated my entire life to mothering every child in need and caring for everyone. I completely forgot myself until rather recently. I actually stumbled upon one of Jen’s FB posts a year or two ago and I felt an instant connection to how accepting she is. I began to binge watch all of her videos (sometimes laughing, sometimes crying). It was like a switch flipped on in my soul because after I would watch a video I always felt like my love and personal acceptance of myself had grown. Jen is the real deal! Just opening my mind to what she says has completely changed my life. I have never participated in any of her workshops and when I saw that she had an online workshop I immediately signed up both my mother and myself. My mother is brand spanking new to Jen’s tribe and I really hope she gains some peace within her heart from joining us. I look forward to interacting with you all during the workshop. Talk to you soon.

    • Reply Lina M Iorgovan October 8, 2016 at 3:51 pm

      Sara, I really wish for you to go and meet Jen. I had the blessing to meet her last year in Paris. And have diner with her , her mom and 2 awesome friends. I was in owe knowing we connect and most incredible she was so open that we could even sit at the same table together. I love her so much. Just can’t wait tomorrow.
      Be safe and love yourself,
      Lina

  • Reply Jenny October 6, 2016 at 12:33 pm

    Hi- I am Jenny and I live in Orange County in California. I am excited to participate in the workshop! I am working hard to embrace me for who I am and not who I think I should be or who others think I should be. Jen’s attitude and all her posts and videos speak to me so I am excited to explore with you all through participation in this workshop. For a very long time I have been closed off and not open to receiving or giving love and I am ready to be the me I really am!

  • Reply Mallory October 6, 2016 at 7:09 pm

    Hello everyone! I’m Mallory and I live in the South Puget Sound area of Washington state. My best friend Zoe signed me up for this course as a surprise and I’m pretty delighted, though I’ll admit that this is a really busy time in my life and I’m worried about fitting it all in and giving it the attention it deserves. All I can say is that I’ll do my best! Zoe has been blessed to be able to attend two of Jen’s in-person retreats in Ojai and she always brings back such great stories and insight and words–I’m excited to have my own chance to learn with Jen and grow into myself. Right now I’m a student in a paralegal certification program at a local community college, I teach academic and technical writing at another local community college, and I’m doing some interning with local legal offices. I’ve been pretty stuck in terms of my personal writing and development for at least the past six months, so I’m really hoping that I am able to be open and present enough to receive during this course. Thank you all for welcoming me here; see you on Facebook!

  • Reply Charlotte October 7, 2016 at 1:00 am

    Hi! I’m Charlotte and I’m based in London U.K. I’m 41 and a single mother of two little boys. I used to teach yoga and now I work from home as a lawyer. I’m so excited to join this course…. I want to learn and practice truly listening to others and to myself and living from a place of truth. Oh and not being an asshole…!.One day I’d like to be able to offer yoga / listening / truth-telling to people who live with invisible chronic illness xx

  • Reply katrina October 8, 2016 at 2:09 pm

    Hi all — I’m Katrina, here in the Pacific NW, USA. I’d not realized how large a group we’d be (!); hoping to find some island of support & community while navigating some of the big stuff, as well as the day-to–day.

  • Reply Sophie Kvam October 8, 2016 at 5:03 pm

    Hi! I’m Sophie, a 30 year old woman living in Norway with my beloved 7 year old daughter. I’m at this wierd place in life now where I struggle a bit with letting things fall into place after many challenging years… And letting myself fall into me, perhaps. I recently finished my bachelor degree in social work, but the job market is tough and so far I only have a 15 % part-time job. Have applied for jobs all over the place for months and months. My real passion, though, is making songs and singing. I did release some music last year before I found the whole thing very scary and climbed back into my anonymous cave. I also recently tried and failed at having a relationship again, live far away from my family and feel a bit alone these days although I’m blessed with many great, close friends. Right now I feel stuck, but also very ready for change – I am stronger than my circumstances. Knowing I have a hard time getting there on my own, I jumped right on when I saw there were 5 more spots open for this online workshop ?

    I’ve followed Jennifer for a while now and love all she shares. This is a brilliant opportunity for someone far away to be able to join in after all, regardless of distance and money. Looking so much forwards to this!

  • Reply Molly Lukes October 8, 2016 at 5:03 pm

    Hi! I am Molly and I live in Wake Forest NC. I am super excited about this group! I have wanted to attend one of Jen’s retreats and have not had the opportunity to attend. My twin sister has attend 2 of Jen’s seminar and raves about the experience. I am so interested growing and learning and think this experience is going to be amazing!

  • Reply Ingrid Cohen October 8, 2016 at 5:56 pm

    Hi All,

    My name is Ingrid. I am here because I love Jen. I love the work she does, the light she spreads, and the women she attracts. I’ve been to a few of her retreats and needed to experience the online gathering.

    I live way outside of Boston. Have finally transitioned into a caretaker of my dad and that transition isnt going the way I want. This experience couldn’t have come at a more perfect time.

    Can’t wait to begin!!

  • Reply Kristen October 8, 2016 at 6:43 pm

    Howdy,
    I’m Kristen and I’m writing from a burb of Philadelphia, PA. I joined this group on a whim today while I was riding in the car with my partner and mother who is visiting us from rural MO.
    I’m in my second year as a tenure-track professor and I am really struggling to find a balance within this new role, the imposter-syndrome is reallllllll. I need help not being an asshole and the self-care stuff. I’m hopeful that this will get me back into a daily writing practice because that will make me so not an asshole.

  • Reply Ashley October 8, 2016 at 6:44 pm

    Hi everyone! I’m Ashley and I live in Austin, TX. I follow Jen on IG thanks to Yogagirl and I value her constant self esteem and self worth boosts. I liked the idea of this workshop using writing as well as other mediums to connect more with myself and other women. I have Hashimotos and I’ve found it interesting that the throat chakra is related to speech, telling the truth, being honest with oneself, etc. I would love to get more in touch with areas where I might be failing myself and also reveal more about my life’s purpose. Very excited about this adventure!

  • Reply Amy Gillis October 9, 2016 at 12:19 am

    Hello lovely people! I’ve just spent the past couple hours reading everyone’s comments and now I am even more stoked to begin this journey! Already so much love in this space!
    I am a 28 year old music loving, yoga practicing, book reading, concert going, mama of 1 canine fur baby. I am originally from Grand Rapids, MI, but I have been living in Nashville, TN (& loving it – minus the brutal heat) for the past 3 years. Last year my husband and I divorced after only 2 years of marriage (we had been together for a total of 7 years). This birthed so many feelings of shame, guilt, and failure; and highlighted my biggest fear – the fear of disappointing others. While I feel like I’ve done a pretty good job at fighting through my fears and reminding myself that I deserve to be happy, I still feel like I’ve been in hiding. In fact, when I originally saw Jen post about this workshop on Instagram, I didn’t join because I had deactivated my Facebook account over a year ago and had no intention of reactivating. Only about 2 weeks ago I realized the next step in my healing process is for me to come out of hiding, be more open with my feelings, connect. So, I am back on FB, I was able to join this workshop (Thank you SO much for opening up a few more spots!), and now I am looking forward to sharing and listening and connecting with each and every one of you! I am so grateful to be here.
    Not sure if people are still reading these, but it felt good to type it all out anyway 🙂 Lets do this!!

  • Reply Jen Anderson October 9, 2016 at 8:12 am

    Hi all, I am humbled by this powerful tribe! So many crooked paths converging together in this moment – powerful! I hear Jen has that kind of power! This is my first course/retreat with Jen so I am very much looking forward to what is in store.

    I am here because lately I feel like an asshole. When I heard the same negative self talk I give myself come through the voice of my nine year old daughter I felt like a total fucking asshole and decided I have GOT to stop. I cannot perpetuate this. She is way too brave, beautiful, smart and strong to have to endure this bullshit. (As am I!!!!) It is not fair to leave my shit on her plate. I take full accountability for providing her a world as a blank slate that she can conquer with no limitations. And I want to stay true to that promise.

    I am 44 and live in Seattle with my daughter and lovingly supportive stay-at-home husband/dad while I work in a fast and furious digital marketing world. My husband is the anti-thesis of asshole. He is like a living Buddha – giving compassionately and kindly to those he loves, always. He also is a mean chef and that rocks (straight to my belly and ass of course!) My mother and twin sister, who are amazingly supportive, are nearby. My brother, who is ill and facing homelessness is also in town and that has a host of stress bombs dropped on the daily. If my brother were born in the 90s instead of the 60s he would likely have been diagnosed with Aspergers — This condition untreated has made him a total asshole. Its fucking hard. My oldest sister and main support is in Northern Cali and I miss her daily, but talk often. Overall we are tight, strong and grateful family and we really try hard to not be assholes to each other. My husband’s family are judgmental and critical assholes, but luckily they live in Chicago. I bring up our families because they are part of our value system and definitely play a big part when we act like assholes and don’t want to — am I right?

    I am an avid yogi and love sharing my practice with others. I hope to find the same joy in sharing this journey with you all. So far I have enjoyed reading your stories – all so honest and real. That is why i am here. I ain’t got time left for anything else.

    Namaste,
    Jen

  • Reply Melissa McAllister October 9, 2016 at 3:11 pm

    Hi! I’m Melissa…I live and love in Virginia…I’m one giant work in progress. Constantly thinking, imagining, wondering, dreaming …which is nice and the way I like it to be …but I also balance all that good stuff out with some rather inconvenient self doubt, self consciousness, judgement, procrastination, avoidance, not-good-enoughness, who-am-I? bullshit. I worry about running out of time ALL THE TIME. I’m a terrible housekeeper and although I’m married I feel like I never got the hang of “wifey work.” I thrive best and shine brightest when I’m allowed to be creative and untethered. Depression and Anxiety are close friends of mine and I struggle to keep space and balance between us but I manage – mostly. I first found Jen when I was diagnosed with cancer. I was desperately searching online for hope, honesty, humanness, and there she was… in a meme, of all things, by Simple Reminders. Reminding me to “Turn Pain Into Art.” It spoke to me. And so I listened. I made art. I made jewelry. And I kept listening. The world is really tiny right? So I signed up (2 yrs later) to attend her NYC Workshop. I took my best friend and IT WAS EVERYTHING. I’ve been back again for another workshop in NYC. That same best friend and I (and my other bff) just launched a big project and I’m terrified and super excited all at the same time…and that feels right. For me – this online experience is a change to work on me a little more. I learn more about myself every time …and so I hope to share and learn and grow a little more, here online, in this little corner of the universe…with each and every one of you. So Hello! and Big Love!

  • Reply Jessica October 9, 2016 at 4:06 pm

    I am Jessie from Denver Colorado. I joined because as a yoga teacher, and writer, I have been enjoying Jennifer on social media for years, but have not been able to do a real life retreat or class. Reading about all the beautiful connection, and love, her events seem to be full of, inspires me as a teacher and a student. I am excited for the journey!

  • Reply Crystal Timms October 9, 2016 at 6:23 pm

    Four years ago we adopted a toddler with issues we were unprepared to handle. She is an amazing child and I love her with all my heart, which is why my world has become consumed by her. I’ve poured my entire being into helping her, growing her, loving her. I gave up my career. My house is in a constant state of disarray, my health is poor, I’ve been injured in three car accidents in the last two years. My husband has grown angry and distant while I try desperately to keep our family afloat. I am my daughter’s mother and nothing more. It has become my entire identity. But I want to be more. I want to be happy and fun and healthy. I want to be a good mom and a good human being. I’ve slowly begun to take control of my life. I’ve been seeing a therapist, and eating better. I bought a yoga groupon, but I haven’t gone yet. I’ve started reaching out to friends and making plans for my future career, but I’m scared, and fear has me stuck. I’m afraid that if I take care of myself and pursue my own goals that this house of cards I’ve built will fall completely apart. I always tell myself that things will be different if only. If only I had time, if only I weren’t so tired, if only I was motivated, could focus, could catch a break, I didn’t hurt so bad, if only someone would give me a hand. So I’m grabbing hold of the collective hand, and I’m here, and I’m ready to learn to be nicer to me.

  • Reply Dawn Michelle Dillon October 10, 2016 at 5:46 am

    I am Michelle and I am a Behavioral Health Tech in Phoenix, Arizona. I have spent the last couple of years drowning in pain and unrealized dreams and in unfathomable fear and I want to reconnect to my creativity, my serenity and my self. I have been reading posts from the manifestation for some time now, but didn’t think I’d ever have a chance to go on a retreat. Then, dice more spots opened up…. It’s the start of a new chapter! I have been through two home invasions, my barely 18 year old nephew first jumping in front of a city bus (going 37 mph, no less!) and then being stabbed in the throat three times six months after he survived the bus, and my seventeen year old son has ptsd and is agoraphobic… It is time for some change!

  • Reply Alexis October 10, 2016 at 9:39 pm

    I’m just starting this – currently residing a few blocks from lovely Jen in Santa Monica. It’s crazy how time and place lead you to different things – LOVE LOVE Jen and her amazing work, had no clue about this workshop and completely missed it until very recently I was on the site just looking for answers.. obviously always so many good reads and came across this workshop, and was so pleasantly happy to have been given the opportunity to take a seat from Jen. SO excited to be here and have this time for me. Which is what all of us need a little more of.

  • Reply Christa Allan October 12, 2016 at 6:54 am

    Just starting today, and I’m teary-eyed thrilled be here. Been following Jen on Insta for a while now and as a woman with three daughters, I am so awed by her no-bullshit, this is my life and you need to love yours too approach. I want that bravery and courage for myself and my daughters.

    I live in NOLA, but we’re in the process of moving to Houston, and for the past 6 weeks, boomeranging from one to another. It’s a pain in the ass. But there’s an end in sight…

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