Awaken Managers & Front Desk Team
Joe & Jenna Hansen
OWNERS
Joe started his career in an industry far far from the fitness world. With 12 years of experience in the motorsports industry, he would rather ride a motorcycle than run a marathon...race a car over going hiking...rock crawl in Moab instead of working out. It's a good thing he married Jenna to keep him active or he may more resemble Jabba the Hutt than the Abominable Snowman.
Truth be told, he actually does enjoy a good sweat as long as it doesn't involve cardio. His professional career has mostly consisted of sales, marketing and management. His favorite thing in life is his family. His smokin' hot wife Jenna keeps him humble and his four kids Tori, Josie, Campbell & Aspen keep him busy with volleyball, skiing, softball, baseball, boating and all the crazy that comes with raising kids in today’s world.
Joe has competed for 17 years as a Highland Games Athlete. He has competed in the highest amateur class and competes locally, nationally and internationally. Come see what a Scotsman wears under his kilt sometime (compression shorts...really, it wouldn't be pretty otherwise).
Alongside of Awaken Studios, Joe also runs a successful real estate company with residential and commercial properties and is always looking for other fun ventures to dip his toes into.
Come visit him and his amazing Awaken Family at the studio sometime soon.
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Kevin Carrington
GENERAL MANAGER
Kevin Carrington is a Salt Lake City native & has spent these past 10 years cultivating a thriving wellness community at Awaken Studios as the General Manager. His journey in health and fitness is fueled by a passion for movement, connection, and continuous growth. Kevin is committed to "always being a student", establishing relationships, and evolving. He's always seeking new ways to elevate both his personal practice and the experience he shares with others. Kevin is a certified ERYT 500Hr. Yoga Instructor, Group Fitness & TRX Trainer, Stott Pilates Instructor, and Reiki Energy Facilitator. For Kevin, movement is more than exercise- it’s an opportunity to explore potential, embrace challenge, and create meaningful experiences both inside and outside the studio. He finds joy in showing up, creating, and engaging with those who seek to move, live, and grow with purpose.
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Melissa Atkinson
F.D. MANAGER
I'm a true Southern Cali beach bum, born and raised in San Diego. My husband Rob and I have lived all around SLC and San Diego, which is also where we had our two children —Penny and Dexter. Consistent exercise has always been a passion of mine because of a genetic bone disease I have called 'XLH'. It's the reason I'm so tall ;) I absolutely love working the Awaken front desk interacting with clients and teachers alike. Witnessing people work continuously on creating a healthier body and mind better inspires me every single day.
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Lindsey Bean
RETREATS | KIDS CARE MANAGER
Lindsey has been with Awaken from nearly the beginning as our Kidscare Manager, and also added the role of Retreat Manager 2 years ago. She is a wife, mother to 4 kids & 2 cats, and self proclaimed chaos coordinator. She loves listening to audio books, relaxing in her hammock, binging reality TV, traveling the world, and spending time with friends and family.
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Klistia Felis
FRONT DESK
Born and raised in Utah. I’ve been Married for 32 years and have 4 amazing athletic kids which has allowed me to travel all over watching them play the sports they love. I’m now a grandma and enjoying this new phase of life. I love to be outside in the sun and run as often as I can. My passion for fitness and spending time in the gym came later in life. Friendships led me to traveling on an Awaken retreat and from that moment on I was hooked! I am so grateful to have found Awaken Studios and this amazing community.
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Marie Lloyd
FRONT DESK | BARRE
I was raised primarily on the north shores of Oahu, Hawaii. I love the outdoors and traveling so I feel fortunate that as a young adult I have been able to relocate to several areas and travel frequently outside the country. In 2010, we made the move from Seattle to settle in Salt lake city to be closer to my husbands family, raise our 2 fun loving kids, and hit the mountains.
After finally stepping away from a corporate job, I jumped back into the fitness Industry, managing and Instructing a variety of classes, but nowadays I mostly just enjoy taking classes from others :-)
I love to learn and meet new people. Finding Awaken studios has given me a place to enjoy doing what I love to do among individuals who aspire to do the same. I’m thrilled to be a part of the Awaken family!
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Nicole Youngclaus
F.D. | SOCIAL MEDIA
Nicole, originally from California, embarked on her fitness journey in 2017 after welcoming her children. She became a certified high fitness instructor, igniting her passion for teaching and connecting with others. In 2022, she achieved certifications in Intensive and Advanced Mat Pilates, leading her to Utah, where she joined Awaken Studios and fell in love with her new community. In 2023, Nicole completed a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training program, further deepening her appreciation for movement, wellness and connection. Currently pursuing a degree in massage therapy, she is dedicated to helping others reconnect with their bodies and is enjoying every moment of her journey.
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Jordan Bennion
MARKETING | AWAKEN TRANSFORMATION
Jordan has been Awaken’s in-house graphic designer since 2022 and started as Jenna’s Transformation Manager in 2023. She originally earned her bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and Physiology, but after starting a family, her creative side took over—and she never looked back. Now living in Bluffdale, UT, with her husband Ryan and their three little adventurers—Blaire, Brooks, and Blake—Jordan keeps busy designing, creating, and making magic happen behind the scenes. When she’s not bringing ideas to life at Awaken, you’ll probably find her exploring new places (Tahiti holds the crown as her favorite snorkeling spot!). She may thrive behind the scenes, but she’s loved meeting so many friendly faces here and can’t wait to meet more.
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Emily Graff
ACCOUNTING / ARIAL INSTRUCTOR
Emily has been working with Awaken for the past 6 years. Originally from Salt Lake City, she has lived in Seattle, Puerto Rico and Spain. She's happy to be back surrounded by mountains with her husband and 4 kids. Emily loves wake surfing and all things boat/lake related, playing tennis and pickleball, pilates, and lifting heavy weights. A graduate of the Marriott school of Management, she also loves a good spreadsheet. Emily is so thankful to be at Awaken where she can marry her love for both business and fitness.
Awaken Pilates Instructors
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Jenna Hansen
PILATES DIRECTOR | CO-OWNER
Jenna has a passion for life, the outdoors, education and people. She is co-founder with her husband, Joe, of Awaken Studios, Awaken Retreats & Awaken Transformation. She is a certified LifeCoach, a Stott Pilates Lead Instructor Trainer in Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair and Barrels; along with being an Instructor Trainer for Total Barre, Zenga Mindful Movement, and CORE Athletic Conditioning and Performance Training. Additional credentials include being 500 hour Yoga Teacher Trained, Awaken Aerial co-founder, Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance from the University of Utah, Masters in Education from the University of Utah. Along with teaching fitness, Jenna has also taught snowboarding, skiing, recreational therapy, and dance. She loves seeing how her clients’ lives improve as they work towards mindset shifts, personal and fitness goals, injury rehabilitation or an improved quality of life. Jenna’s life work however is her 4 children, whom help remind her through their examples how to live life in the present with an awe for the amazing world.
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Lisa Benson
Lisa got hooked on Pilates when she first tried it out her freshman year of college. It made her feel stong, long, flexible, and worked her body in a way that no other form of exercise could. She knew right away that this was something she needed to share with everyone she met! She kept practicing Pilates throughout her professional dance career and attributes Pilates to keeping her body healthy and injury free. After she retired from performing and gave birth to twins, she knew that life would never slow down and finally decided to get certified. She loves challenging her clients and helping them reap the benefits of Pilates!
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Desirae Jaynes
Desirae has a great passion for fitness and movement. She has trained in dance all her life and was introduced to Pilates by one of her instructors years ago and fell in love! She completed the Stott Pilates Reformer course and graduated with a BSA in Communications from Utah Valley University. She has 10+ years experience as a dance instructor and choreographer, she has also danced professionally for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, and multiple Utah based companies. She is a wife, and mom to an adorable baby boy and happy to say she loves what she does! Desirae trains in Pilates regularly and values that it generates core and muscle strength, length, and tone while creating stability to protect from injuries. She says from experience that Pilates has changed the way she feels and carries herself on a daily basis. She truly loves teaching and sharing the benefits of fitness and Pilates with others.
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Rachel Barker
Rachel Barker is a dance artist, choreographer, and educator from Salt Lake City, Utah who loves the mountains and her bike. Working as a river-guide, traversing the mountains on her skis and bike, or heading out on solo adventure trips, she prefers to spend most of her time outside! Her creative work—including contemporary dance choreography and dance film— has received multiple awards and been presented nationally and internationally in various festivals and venues. She has taught dance in a variety of settings for 23 years; as a dance professor in both Utah and North Carolina for the past seven, and in various dance studios, as head of a high school dance program, and community centers in years prior.
She has practiced pilates for many years as a way to strengthen and find stability to her mobility, certifying through Balanced Body in 2015 and completing her Stott Reformer training with Awaken Studios in 2022. Rachel thoroughly enjoys helping others find the joy of movement, whether that be through healing body and soul as we discover all that we are capable of, or addressing particular injuries in order to live life to the fullest and pursue our passions.
She holds an MFA in Dance from The Ohio State University, a Masters in Teaching from Westminster College, and a BFA in Dance from the University of Utah. She is so excited to be working with you all at Awaken Studios!
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Chantell Johnston
Chantell graduated college with her B.S. in Paralegal Studies in 2005. Shortly after graduating, she started her own company and embarked on an entirely new education as a small business owner. To keep up with her demanding work load, she quickly realized that maintaining a balanced life through exercise and nutrition was crucial for herself and business. Growing up with a passion and affinity for physical movement through competitive gymnastics, skiing and softball, staying active has always been second nature! In 2005 she discovered Pilates while rehabbing a running injury and instantly fell in love with its practice. Pilates enabled her to heal and stay injury free while training and competing in individual races, team relay races and a half-ironman triathlon. Her passion for Pilates later became her profession when she sold her company and certified through Stott Pilates to begin teaching others. Chantell is a 200 Hour Registered Yoga Teacher is very passionate about Yoga and it’s place in her life both on and off the mat. She enjoys the freedom of expression, peace, balance and fun that comes from practicing and teaching yoga. She is also a certified CORE Athletic & Conditioning Trainer. Helping people discover and reach their full potential through mindful movement is fulfilling and she feels honored to be included in others’ journeys. Currently, she teaches at Xcel Fitness in Salt Lake City, Utah. She is a wife and a mother to two wonderful, active boys. She and her family share a passion for the ‘Great Outdoors’ and enjoy camping, hiking, motorcycling, skiing and playing in the dirt together!
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Kevin Carrington
Kevin Carrington is a Salt Lake City native & has spent these past 10 years cultivating a thriving wellness community at Awaken Studios as the General Manager. His journey in health and fitness is fueled by a passion for movement, connection, and continuous growth. Kevin is committed to "always being a student", establishing relationships, and evolving. He's always seeking new ways to elevate both his personal practice and the experience he shares with others. Kevin is a certified ERYT 500Hr. Yoga Instructor, Group Fitness & TRX Trainer, Stott Pilates Instructor, and Reiki Energy Facilitator. For Kevin, movement is more than exercise—it’s an opportunity to explore potential, embrace challenge, and create meaningful experiences both inside and outside the studio. He finds joy in showing up, creating, and engaging with those who seek to move, live, and grow with purpose.
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Hillary Ann
Hillary relocated back to Salt Lake City after living in Honolulu, Hawaii for 16 Years where she owns and directs Manoa Dance Studio (MDS). When she started MDS, many thought she was simply teaching kids the basics, when she was, in fact, learning to dance again herself. In 2008, Hillary suffered a major stroke that left her unable to speak and rendered her right side paralyzed. After a risky brain surgery, she nurtured her recovery over several years with Pilates, which enabled her to make leaps and bounds in her recovery and allowed her to return to her first passion, dancing. Hillary now specializes in Neuroscience recovery with movement, body mechanics for dancers, injury recovery and prevention for youth through seniors and holds over 2,000 hours in certifications in movement science, Pilates and Yoga. Hillary has one constant thread throughout her life- her passion for empowering people through movement.
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Katy Alder
I discovered Pilates during one of my pregnancies when my pelvis slipped out and was very disorganized....and physical plain painful! Pilates helped me stabilize and was one thing to bring me the slightest relief from pain. From there I was hooked, and began progressing into advanced levels and was astounded at what the human body could do when uniformly developed! I certified in 2017, spending 850 hours in my program... I learned and grew immensely during that time.I love teaching Pilates, but also love my four kiddos, playing tennis and doing anything in those majestic mountains of ours!I am honored to join the awaken team and can’t wait to get to know all of you better!!
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Rachel Butler
Rachel was born and raised in Utah. She has always enjoyed being active and living a healthy lifestyle. She was lucky enough to find and marry her husband that has the same passions. Rachel is a mother to three kids and a dog. They enjoy spending time together as a family in the outdoors; camping, hiking, biking, and fishing. Rachel received her degree in Nursing and worked as an RN at the University of Utah Hospital, in the Newborn ICU for several years. Being torn between her profession and staying home to be a mom, she decided to be with her kids. During her time as a stay-at-home mom, she started taking Pilates classes. This is where she fell in love with Pilates and how good it made her body feel. She decided to become an instructor and certified through Stott in Mat and Reformer. Rachel loves the body and is fascinated with how it works and moves. She has been teaching Pilates since 2014, and is currently working towards her full Pilates Certification and hopes to one day become an Instructor Trainer.
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Cyndi Anderson
Cyndi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Fitness and a background that includes a successful career in banking. Her Pilates instruction journey started with her wanting to take her personal Pilates practice to the next level. She was quick to discover her desire to help others achieve their health and fitness goals.
Cyndi is dedicated to providing clients with Pilates sessions that enhance strength, flexibility, and overall health. She/is committed to fostering a supportive environment where clients can reach their full potential.
Outside of the Pilates studio, Cyndi enjoys biking, skiing, gardening, baking, and spending time with family.
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Laura Marriott
Laura’s first exposure to Pilates was through her ballet teacher (who studied Pilates in 1970’s New York when she was a soloist with American Ballet Theatre). She had a Mat Pilates class every Saturday in what she now knows as a classical method for dancers. Some years have passed…and after being on bedrest for several of her 7 pregnancies, resulting in 7 amazing children, she has used Pilates to rehabilitate from an extremely non-athletic place, and certified in Stott Reformer and Mat repertoire in 2022. She just marvels at this conditioning method that can strengthen and improve a body’s function at any starting point, from bed rest survivors to elite athletes. Laura taught ballet classes for many years, homeschooled her children for some years, and now teaches Pilates whenever she can —when she isn’t teaching her kids to put their plates in the dishwasher, cooking, driving, gardening, cleaning, reading a book, traveling, or having a dance party in the kitchen.
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Jamie Cavazos
Jamie is a passionate learner about the body. She loves sharing the way movement, is capable of improving, and supporting our individual journeys to move forward with strength, ease and grace. Being a people person and a good listener, allows Jamie to assist students in modifying, or adjusting their bodies to what’s best for them. Jamie knows, “Movement IS Medicine.” Jamie is currently certified as Pilates reformer and mat instructor... As well as a Yoga teacher. Most recently, she has completed her certification as a Myofascial release specialist. When not teaching, you can find her in nature, walking, hiking and cooking for her family, when she is not being their personal Uber drive.
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Tilly Southwick
Hi, I’m Tilly Southwick, a certified Pilates instructor and former collegiate soccer player with over a decade of teaching experience. I’m passionate about intentional movement, strength, and mobility, creating workouts that are both effective and empowering. My goal is always for clients to leave feeling challenged, supported, and energized.
My journey to Pilates certification was deeply personal. After years of competitive soccer, I found myself wanting to understand movement on a deeper level not just how to perform athletically, but how to move functionally in everyday life. Pilates gave me that foundation, and getting certified felt like a natural next step so I could share those tools with others. I truly believe that when people learn to move well, everything changes — how they feel, how they carry themselves, and how they show up in their daily lives.
My background spans fashion, branding, and executive operations, but the common thread has always been helping people feel capable and inspired. That same drive fuels everything I do in the studio. I love working with clients who want to feel strong and confident in their bodies and beyond.
Outside of teaching I’m a mom of three who genuinely loves Pilates for herself too. Movement has always been a huge part of my life and I’m so grateful to share that with others. scription goes here
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Emily Jacobs
AERIAL | KIDS AERIAL
Emily Jacobs has a passion for teaching that extends back as far as she can recall. She earned her bachelors degree in education and music from Westminster College in 2004 and has been teaching professionally ever since. Emily is currently a level 2 certified AntiGravity Fitness instructor with certifications in AntiGravity Fundamentals, AntiGravity Aerial Yoga, AntiGravity Suspension Fitness, AntiGravity Pilates, and AntiGravity Just Kids. Her clientele range in age from young infants to individuals in their golden years. In fact, the adaptability of AntiGravity Fitness is one of the many reasons why Emily loves practicing and teaching. Emily has taught music and movement to young children for 15 years and currently owns her own thriving music studio. Emily and her husband Nick are the proud parents of four amazing boys and together they love to bike, camp, hike, travel, play in any capacity and most importantly, jam out together.
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Hailey Huffman
Hailey Huffman is a comprehensively certified Pilates teacher and 200-hour registered yoga teacher with a background in nutrition and exercise physiology. Originally from Missouri, she made her way from Colorado to Utah, drawn by her love of the outdoors, fresh air, and movement that feels both grounding and empowering. With a love for slow, intentional movement and creative, low-impact ways to explore the body’s strength, Hailey’s teaching blends flow, challenge, and a deep mind-body connection. Whether you're on the mat, reformer, or somewhere in between, her classes are designed to help you move with purpose, curiosity, and presence. Outside the studio, Hailey recharges by snowboarding, hiking, biking, or hitting a group fitness class — and she’s a proud dog mom to Thor, a very spirited yorkiepoo. Her teaching is rooted in the belief that it’s all mind over matter — and that movement should leave you feeling more at home in your body.
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Heather Ellefsen
Coming Soon…
Awaken Yoga Instructors
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Liilu Hansen
Y.T.T. DIRECTOR
Liilu Hansen, 500E-RYT, invites you to come back to yourself—back to your own body and back to your personal intuition. Her energetic and approachable teaching style allows you to move through your physical and spiritual yoga journey in a deep and meaningful way, and all at your own pace. Liilu’s studies in a wide range of yoga styles combined with 15 years full of yoga teaching experience offer you something new and exciting to learn in each class. She teaches Power Vinyasa Flow and Restorative Yoga in Millcreek and also travels to teach in international yoga festivals, such as the Copenhagen Yoga Festival in Denmark. In addition to yoga, Liilu has four children and enjoys skiing, hiking and camping with her family. Yoga keeps her grounded and centered throughout her busy, full, challenging and joyful life.
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Kevin Carrington
Y.T.T. EDUCATOR
Kevin Carrington is a Salt Lake City native & has spent these past 10 years cultivating a thriving wellness community at Awaken Studios as the General Manager. His journey in health and fitness is fueled by a passion for movement, connection, and continuous growth. Kevin is committed to "always being a student", establishing relationships, and evolving. He's always seeking new ways to elevate both his personal practice and the experience he shares with others. Kevin is a certified ERYT 500Hr. Yoga Instructor, Group Fitness & TRX Trainer, Stott Pilates Instructor, and Reiki Energy Facilitator. For Kevin, movement is more than exercise- it’s an opportunity to explore potential, embrace challenge, and create meaningful experiences both inside and outside the studio. He finds joy in showing up, creating, and engaging with those who seek to move, live, and grow with purpose.
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Cynthia Wand
Y.T.T. EDUCATOR
Cynthia is passionate about matters of the heart, connection, and soaking up the juiciness of life, optimizing health, and deepening her relationship to the Divine. This is what led her to yoga over 24 years ago. Cynthia has been teaching, mentoring and leading yoga retreats and events for over 14 years. She is an RYT 500/ E-RYT, and YACEP provider, as she is now leading yoga teacher trainings, teaching her personal development, HeartLife modules for various Yoga Teacher Training schools in Salt Lake/and Utah Valley “I AM honored to share my passions and grateful for the opportunity to assist others in both growing their physical practice, as well as supporting them in exploring, integrating and strengthening their spiritual journey, off of the mat and into their world! “I AM a stand for changing this world…one open heart at a time!”
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Karalee Snow
Y.T.T. EDUCATOR
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Lebo Goad
Y.T.T. EDUCATOR
I regard myself an advocate for advancing equity, representation, and belonging through yoga.
In my offering of trauma-sensitive and inclusive practices, I carry an intention to honor the diverse lived experiences of those I serve.
My background in Law influences a lifelong commitment to advocating for access, equity, and inclusion, as well as the empowerment of marginalized and underserved communities.
My personal journey has taught me that yoga is exceptionally powerful when it embraces everyone. This began with me offering programs to veterans the Salt Lake VA, refugees at the Utah Refugee Center, domestic violence survivors at the YWCA Utah, school children and teachers in Title One schools and later extending to inmates at the Utah Department of Corrections among others. My greatest joy in all my yoga service has been the privilege of visiting my home country in South Africa, and sharing this practice with underprivileged youth in my community. -
Brittany Lindsey
Brittany recently graduated from our 200 YTT program here at Awaken and her first yoga class was with us in our earlier years. She is a native to Salt Lake City and has been teaching majority of her adult life. She believes that she was born to lead and guide others through movement, yoga being one of them. Her yoga style is empowering, connected, and grounding. Her mission is to share her life experiences authentically with others, so that they can feel a connection to themselves and with her. "I believe when we show up authentically as ourselves, it gives us an opportunity to be seen for our being. Our experiences shape us into who we are and when we own all of the parts of ourselves we can feel grounded knowing we are living for ourselves. It's not always easy, but just like yoga, life is a practice. A practice of coming home to ourselves, our truth and being grounded within that space." Brittany is a being of light and her genuine energy shines bright. She wears her heart on her sleeve and is always open to a vulnerable conversation. Through conversations comes connection and when we can become vulnerable and be seen, we can show up as our true selves on and off the mat. Brittany is ready to connect, elevate, grow and help guide you back home to yourself.
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Cassie Ortega
Cassie has been teaching yoga for the past 7 years and is a 500 HR RYT. She She has a background in Ashtanga, Vinyasa, and Yin Infused practices but her deep love is for Restorative Yoga. Cassie is passionate about awakening others to the quiet calm waters of their most deepest sacred hearts. “I am here to inspire and empower others to take the beautiful leap into a deeper relationship with themselves. My intention in each of my classes is to have you leaving feeling that no matter what life has thrown your way, you can always start anew. I am here as a messenger to remind you of your divine goodness, your divine power and beauty. Just by YOU merely existing dear one YOU are already enough. I want to create a safe sacred space for all to come into. No matter where you are on your awakening healing journey there is room for you to come and be just as you are, in all your many shades, colors, shapes and sizes. YOU always have a place here to find your grounded center on your own terms”.
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Kayla Knudson
Kayla has always understood that health is wealth and movement is medicine.
At the young age of thirteen, Kayla underwent a spinal fusion with two titanium rods and sixteen screws extending down the vertebrae from T3-L2 due to severe scoliosis.
Through yoga, she gained back her mobility, flexibility, and strength all with a positive mindset. Bent but never broken, she continues to prevail through medical challenges and show how endlessly capable our bodies are. She seeks to share this incredible gift of mindful movement and meditation back to the world.A 200 HR Yoga Alliance Certified Awaken YTT graduate, trained in Ashtanga and Vinyasa practices.
Kayla seeks to offer a safe place to feel, heal, and understand one's body wherever you are on your journey. -
McAlister Stack
McAllister's journey into the world of yoga began at just 16 years old, when she took part in her first teacher training and discovered a passion that would shape the course of her life. Over the past eight years, she has dedicated herself to deepening her practice, earning her 500-hour Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) certification and becoming certified in children's yoga — bringing mindfulness and movement to students of all ages. Her love for health and wellness extends beyond the mat as well; McAllister is also a certified health coach and soon-to-be personal trainer who believes in a holistic approach to well-being. Whether she's leading a class or finding any excuse to get outside and move, her passion for helping others thrive is at the heart of everything she does. -
Amy Rosevear
Born and raised in Utah, Amy Rosevear, is a University of Utah graduate with over 18 years of experience as a fitness instructor. With a background in real estate spanning two decades and life experience as a mother of five, she brings a dynamic, practical, and motivating approach to movement. She is passionate about helping others build strength, confidence, and joy through an active lifestyle. -
Emily & Danae
KIDS YOGA
Danae is a Michigan native currently living, practicing and teaching yoga in Salt Lake City, Utah. Danae currently works in the education setting and has experience as a classroom teacher and a teacher coach. Her love of teaching and learning led her to Yoga Teacher Training in 2015. She is also a Kids Yoga Teacher, certified through Next Generation Yoga and loves sharing yoga with kids of all ages. Danae loves to spend time outdoors and connecting the body and mind through movement.
Awaken Group Fitness Instructors
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Emily Nelson
CO-CREATOR
Emily is the co-owner and creator of the new hardcore fun fitness class HIGH FITNESS.
Emily was born and raised in Bountiful UT in a very active lifestyle home. She spent the first 18 years of her life keeping active through dance, dance, and more dance. Emily’s passion for fitness came about when she headed off to college and joined her first gym. She immediately fell in love with group fitness and knew she needed to be a part of it. Working full time as a Fitness Director Emily received several fitness certifications such as BOSU, TRX, Bootcamp, Step, Bender Ball, Zumba 1 & 2 and Zumbatomic, LesMills BodyAttack and BodyJam fitness programs. Emily’s passion for dance and fitness came together through her diverse fitness classes and has expanded from there. Emily believes that exercise and getting fit should not only make you physically stronger but mentally and emotionally stronger as well. Because of this belief and passion Emily teamed up with her Canadian friend, Amber Zenith, to bring to life a new Fitness class that they felt was missing in the industry. They created HIGH Fitness and gained an instant following and decided to share it with the masses.
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Jane Johnson
CO CREATOR: UPBEAT BARRE / LIFT
Jane Johnson was an avid runner until the Arizona heat required she complete her marathon training on a treadmill next to the group fitness room at the gym. She accidentally ran right off that treadmill and into the Hip Hop Zumba class, cancelled her marathon race, and has never looked back.
As the co-founder of UpBeat Barre, Jane has a passion for muscular endurance training and dives deep into the science of the workout, always creating a balance of fun and education throughout her classes.
When she's not teaching UpBeat Barre, Jane also teaches HIGH Fitness, HIGH Yo, and hustles with her husband, Seth, to get their four children to their various activities and sports. She loves singing, volleyball, and Crio Bru with Nutpods, and watches Gilmore Girls, Friends, and The Americans on repeat.
UpBeat Barre is muscular-endurance HIIT fusion of cardio, strength, Pilates, and yoga. UPB uses popular music to create an accessible, sweaty, and balanced workout with varying levels of intensity.
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Amy Crockett
HIGH | BARRE | SURGE
Born and raised in Laie, Hawaii. I grew up loving farm fresh foods, lots of big family gatherings and of course the beach. I was active in sports throughout my life and went to a small town college in Wyoming to play volleyball and later transferred to the University of Utah. Married my kind hearted husband and together have 3 energetic children (which includes a set of twins!). My love for fitness and wellness actually grew more when I stopped playing collegiate volleyball. I started to focus on my fitness and wellness goals as an individual and fell in love with the process of understanding my mind, and body collectively. Found myself attending many group fitness classes and WYLD fed my mind, body and soul in more ways than I could’ve ever imagined. It was a no brainer that I certified to share the gift of WYLD and spread love, light and aloha to those around me and of course myself. I am so excited to share this space with the awaken Ohana and of course you!
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Staci Short
H.I.I.T
I have been teaching and training for just over 20 years, and have enjoyed every minute of it. I graduated from the University of Utah with my bachelor's degree in Health Science — with an emphasis in Nutrition. I have been NASM, ACE, AFAA, and Les Mills trained, and love working with all ages of people, especially young athletes.
I have been married for 10 years, have three fun and crazy girls, and don’t own any animals. I am passionate about cooking, traveling, and learning anything new — and my favorite quote is:
"What others think of you is none of your business." -
Shawna Wilson
HIGH FITNESS
Shawna Wilson has been teaching High Fitness since January of 2016. She is an avid lover of group fitness, birthday celebrations, Disneyland, summer pool days, Christmas magic, and of course, her family ranks at the tippy-top.
You'll rarely find her without a Diet Coke in hand. She loves to be the hype girl of every class and can be found grinning ear to ear while sweating head to toe.
Shawna's motto is to "Live it!" Life was meant to be enjoyed, not just endured, so why not make it the most fun you can!
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Marie Lloyd
BARRE | WYLD
I was raised primarily on the north shores of Oahu, Hawaii. I love the outdoors and traveling so I feel fortunate that as a young adult I have been able to relocate to several areas and travel frequently outside the country. In 2010, we made the move from Seattle to settle in Salt lake city to be closer to my husbands family, raise our 2 fun loving kids, and hit the mountains.
After finally stepping away from a corporate job, I jumped back into the fitness Industry, managing and Instructing a variety of classes, but nowadays I mostly just enjoy taking classes from others :-)
I love to learn and meet new people. Finding Awaken studios has given me a place to enjoy doing what I love to do among individuals who aspire to do the same. I’m thrilled to be a part of the Awaken family!
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Tara Hawke
HIGH FITNESS
Born and raised in UT, Tara is a wife, mom of 4 incredible girls, and someone who has been moving her whole life—whether through ballet/dancing, playing soccer, or running miles just for fun.She didn’t originally set out to become a fitness instructor, but when life took her to Lubbock, TX—where HIGH Fitness was hard to find—she decided to change that. She got certified in HIGH Fitness and now 7 years later, she’s still completely hooked. For Tara, it’s never been just about the workout—it’s about the energy, the connection, and the community that comes with it.
Outside of fitness, you’ll find Tara working from home and carpooling her girls all over the valley to dance, sports, piano and everything in between. In the rare moments of free time, she loves anything outdoors—trail running, hiking, snow skiing, sunshine; traveling and spending time with family and friends. She’s known for keeping life light, laughing often, singing at the top of her lungs (usually with confidently incorrect lyrics) and never taking herself too seriously.
And if you ever see her with that HIGH hat on backwards…just know her alter ego has officially entered the room!
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Alli Mangrum
TOTAL BODY CONDITIONING & YOGA FACIAL RELEASE
Alli Mangrum is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who has taught group fitness and yoga for 24 years. Alli is passionate about educating her clients on movement and injury prevention. She loves helping people feel the connection between their physical, emotional, and energetic body, and believes that through movement and awareness, we can heal all things as we expand into our best selves.
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Annie & Heather
B.F.F. HIGH
Annie VanLeeuwen & Heather O’Fee, or together known as BFFHighFit, have a deep rooted passion for health & fitness. After becoming best friends in college, and both getting degrees in health related fields, they realized they share a passion for getting others excited about fitness. Both avid fitness lovers, they were hooked on HIGH FITNESS after their first class, and couldn’t wait to get certified and share their love with the world! Annie comes from a background in Dance, Cheer & also holds Les Mills BodyPump, Bodycombat & CX works certifications. When she isn’t busy raising her 3 beautiful kids, Annie loves relaxing with an ice cold DDP and a fresh swig cookie. Heather is a self-proclaimed foodie and is always on the lookout for the best new place to grub in SLC. She spends her free time outside of work traveling, and dreaming of summer. BFFHighfit believes every class should leave you feeling motivated and empowered.
Awaken Wyld Instructors
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Lindsi Stevens
WYLD CREATOR & BUNS/GUNS
Lindsi's superpower is her ability to connect. She helps others connect with the light inside of them and with others around them. It doesn't matter if it's a Wyld dance class or TRX strength training, connection is what motivates her and brings her joy.
Lindsi enjoys exploring all avenues of fitness and wellness. Being the mother of their brilliant girls and the wife of the world's best treat maker fills her heart and keeps her on the go.
Lindsi's primary goal at Awaken is simple: to share light and help others find and share theirs. Individually sharing light pushes personal growth and development, but collectively sharing light makes this sometimes-challenging world a beautiful place.
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Jessie Peck
Jessie Peck is a new mama to her son, Fred, and a former first grade teacher. She loves family, friends, and giving hugs. Jessie and her husband love to spend time outdoors hiking, fishing, and people watching. Jessie loves making new friends as an adult, and group fitness has been her biggest way to do just that. She feels Wyld is a way to fuel her soul, not just exercise her body. She can't wait to share it with you.
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Candace Teisina
Born and raised in Laie, Hawaii. I grew up loving farm fresh foods, lots of big family gatherings and of course the beach. I was active in sports throughout my life and went to a small town college in Wyoming to play volleyball and later transferred to the University of Utah. Married my kind hearted husband and together have 3 energetic children (which includes a set of twins!). My love for fitness and wellness actually grew more when I stopped playing collegiate volleyball. I started to focus on my fitness and wellness goals as an individual and fell in love with the process of understanding my mind, and body collectively. Found myself attending many group fitness classes and WYLD fed my mind, body and soul in more ways than I could’ve ever imagined. It was a no brainer that I certified to share the gift of WYLD and spread love, light and aloha to those around me and of course myself. I am so excited to share this space with the awaken Ohana and of course you!
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Julie Nelson
Julie, a native of Sandy, Utah, has always been immersed in the world of dance and music, fostering her love for movement and expression from an early age. With a deep-rooted passion for overall well-being, Julie believes in nurturing the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health. As a certified Wyld dancer and for 8 years, and now instructor, Julie's vibrant energy and expertise shine through in her classes. Julie is a mom to two daughters who have caught the Wyld bug. Witnessing the transformative power of this practice on her girls' confidence and happiness, Julie is on a mission to bring the magic of movement to all teens.
Awaken Aerial Instructors
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Jenny Palmer
AERIAL DIRECTOR
Jenny is a Certified Aerial Fitness instructor. & 500 Hour Yoga Teacher graduate. She was born and raised in Utah and never wants to leave the amazing Wasatch Front mountains!! She loves adventuring in the outdoors and always brings a hammock along with her so she can hang out wherever she goes. When she was first introduced to Aerial fitness she fell in love immediately.
A fitness routine in a hammock?!?! Is there anything else more perfect than that?!?! Well, yes, she also discovered all the benefits of Aerial Fitness and now wants to share her knowledge with everyone else.
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Steph Payne
YOGA | KIDS AERIAL & YOGA
I’m a firm believer in the transformative power of movement. It energizes your body, clears your mind, and restores balance. It helps us feel capable, connected, and alive.
Movement has always been part of who I am. I trained at Ballet West Conservatory when I was young and still cherish the emotional release that comes from dancing. A few years ago, I co-founded Wolfpack Running Club, a nonprofit youth program that helps kids work hard, build strength, and find belonging through running. These days, I coach at Momentum Climbing Gym—guiding climbers of all ages as they push past limits and discover confidence on the wall—and teach yoga and aerial essentials at Awaken Studios. When I’m not teaching, I’m probably off on a new adventure with my husband and our three boys—usually outdoors and laughing hard.
If we’re not careful, the world can wear us down. I decided long ago that I want to be a builder—someone who helps others grow stronger from the inside out. Through aerial yoga and QiYo (a fusion of yoga, Tai Chi, and Qigong), I hope to create a space where we move, breathe, and heal together—cultivating strength, peace, and connection.
Certifications: 200-Hour Yoga | 120-Hour Sound Healing | 60-Hour Aerial Essentials | 40-Hour National Stretch | 12-Hour Aeriatsu (Aerial Massage with Watsu and Ashiatsu) | Advanced Tuning Fork | Reiki Levels 1 & 2 | Chakra Healing | QiYo | Qigong -
Nicole Reyes
AERIAL | KIDS AERIAL
Nicole is trained in Aerial Yoga. Born and raised in a small mountain town in Utah, she continues to love adventuring in the mountains. When not at the studio she is taking care of her 4 kids & husband or working as a nurse. She loves traveling, crafting, making art, reading & taking naps in her spare time. She has always loved fitness & it has always been a big part of her life. Back in 2015 Nicole was invited to come try a fitness class in a hammock. Intrigued, she went and fell in love with aerial fitness and how great she felt after class. Nicole feels strongly that exercise should be fun, and is so important for your body and mind. Aerial yoga is all that and more! Come and hang with Nicole!
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Heather Walker
Heather is an enthusiastic aerial instructor at Awaken Studios. As a full-time professional in the tech industry, she understands the need for a balancing escape from the digital world. Heather's journey with aerial yoga began nearly two years ago at Awaken, and she completed her aerial essentials training here in 2023. Having lived with type 1 diabetes for over 20 years, Heather found in aerial yoga a feeling of safety with exercise. For her, it is a liberating experience that transcends the physical demands of chronic illness; a space where she can 'fly’. You may even see her adjusting medical devices on her arms and stomach throughout class! Leaning on her doctorate in Disability Studies, Heather encourages her students to embrace the trust-exercise that comes with fitness in a moving apparatus, guiding them through each movement with care and focus on accessibility. Join Heather in aerial classes at Awaken' to experience the exhilarating blend of fitness, fun, and flying!
Kidscare Staff
Our KidsCare team is managed by Lindsey Bean, with assistant Nicole Cordell. All staff are fingerprinted and have passed background checks, in addition to being CPR certified.
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Lindsey Bean
KidsCare Manager
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Nicole Cordell
Kidscare Assistant Manager
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Aubrey Oyzerskiy
KidsCare Staff
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Shelby Judkins
KidsCare Staff
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Daphne Lundberg
Kidscare Staff
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Abigail Karr
Kidscare Staff
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Jalyn Bender
Kidscare Staff
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Quinn Trail
Kidscare Staff
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Cassidy Harrington
Kidscare Staff