About me

My husband and I have lived in Castle Rock for the last 15 years. Originally from Wichita, Kansas, my family moved throughout the Midwest, settling on Omaha, Nebraska, where I finished high school and college. I met my husband while working at Starbucks, as I was trying to decide what to do with my elementary education degree, which I had recently realized was not at all what I wanted to do for a career (second-graders are NO joke!). I ended up in corporate America in an HR and training position and we moved to Colorado to take a role here. We've never looked back! I own a small HR consulting business and just recently reopened a yoga studio (previously Ashva Yoga) in downtown Castle Rock.

About my studio

Buka Yoga is a small, locally owned yoga studio just off of Wilcox in old downtown Castle Rock. "Buka" means laughter and hummingbirds in Sanskrit. I chose this name because I have believed in the power of laughter my whole life and I want to live my life finding moments where I can truly laugh and enjoy life. I also love hummingbirds. They symbolize freedom, joy and compassion. They show us that life is beautiful and every encounter is special and should be cherished.

We've got an amazing group of teachers. Most importantly, we are a community. While we have a beautiful space to practice with others, we are also looking at ways to bring this out into the community. You can follow us on Facebook or Instagram @bukayoga.

Getting into yoga

I found yoga about five years ago. I had a big job, an interesting boss and lot of responsibility. And I was miserable. I began to realize there was more to life than just working and climbing the corporate ladder. I went on a yoga retreat with a friend (where I actually practiced yoga for the first time in my life) and my life was changed. I had never felt such a connection to my body through breath and mindfulness meditation.

Globetrotter

I love to travel and cook. I've been to 42 countries (some multiple times) and six continents. I try and find off-the-beaten-path places to eat wherever I go, and if I can, find a cooking class or local to teach me something about the food in their country. I love to go on yoga retreats so I can be a better host for the women's retreats I hold three times a year.

My mantra

When we follow our hearts and find passion in something, we should find a way to make it what we do. Whether it's full time or something we weave into our lives, if we find beauty in it we will project light and love to others we share it with.

If you have suggestions for My Name Is…, contact Jessica Gibbs at jgibbs@coloradocommunitymedia.com.