Jenny Cline

Anthony Mandela: Jenny, welcome! I’d love to start by learning more about your background. How did you get your start and what do you specialize in teaching? Please feel free to begin wherever it makes the most sense to give people an idea of what you love to do.

Jenny Cline: I got into yoga through one of my close friends. We went to Ecuador for a global health nursing course, and as part of it, she led yoga sessions for our group. When we returned, I started attending classes with her and immediately loved how I felt afterward. From there, I followed my intuition and curiosity, which led me down an unplanned but deeply fulfilling path. I’m very passionate about yoga, Ayurveda, and overall wellness.

(AM): How long after you started practicing did you decide to pursue teacher certification?

(JC): It took me over a decade.

(AM): And what led you to take that step? What motivated you to pursue certification?

(JC): I really just wanted to learn more—about yoga itself, its history, and its philosophy. I didn’t enter teacher training with the goal of becoming a teacher, but things naturally evolved in that direction. Now, I love it. I teach a class every Wednesday night and lead chair yoga sessions for my coworkers on Wednesday mornings. It’s been rewarding to integrate it into my nursing career as well.

(AM): Nursing and yoga. That sounds like a great balance. What classes did you start with, and how has your teaching morphed over time?

(JC): I primarily teach restorative yoga and guided meditation, which have been consistent throughout my teaching journey. Occasionally, I teach yoga nidra, and every couple of months, I lead a special restorative yoga and guided meditation session that incorporates Ayurvedic teachings. In these sessions, I prepare snacks and discuss the Ayurvedic properties of the ingredients, often aligning them with the current season.

(AM): For those who may not be familiar with Ayurveda, how would you describe it in simple terms?

(JC): Ayurveda is an ancient healing and medical tradition from India that’s been around for thousands of years. It focuses on balance—understanding an individual’s unique constitution and maintaining equilibrium through diet, lifestyle, and daily practices. Since balance can shift with seasons and personal circumstances, Ayurveda helps prevent disease by promoting strong digestion and overall well-being.

(AM): What Ayurvedic principles have been most impactful in your own life?

What I love about Ayurveda is that it empowers individuals to listen to their bodies and make small, meaningful adjustments to improve overall well-being.

(JC): In Ayurveda, everyone is born with a unique constitution, or dosha. I’m primarily vata-pitta, which means I have a tendency toward being airy, dry, and mobile. Understanding this has helped me recognize when I’m out of balance and apply Ayurvedic practices to restore equilibrium. What I love about Ayurveda is that it empowers individuals to listen to their bodies and make small, meaningful adjustments to improve overall well-being.

(AM): How does someone determine their dosha, and how can they recognize when they’re out of balance?

(JC): There are quizzes available to help determine your dosha, but working with a professional is the best approach. Once you understand your constitution, you learn to recognize signs of imbalance, which can sometimes be subtle. Ayurveda encourages practices like eating seasonally, consuming organic and unprocessed foods, and aligning your sleep schedule with the circadian rhythm. These small adjustments can make a significant difference over time.

(AM): Do you help individuals identify their dosha and address imbalances?

(JC): Yes, I do. I guide people in understanding their dosha and incorporating lifestyle and dietary changes to restore balance.

(AM): What do you think is most important for people to know about how you help others through your practice?

(JC): I bring a unique combination of perspectives, blending my background in nursing with my education in yoga and Ayurveda. This allows me to offer safe, holistic practices that enhance overall well-being. Many of the changes I recommend are simple—establishing a regular bedtime, practicing breathwork for a few minutes each morning, or using mindfulness techniques to reduce stress. These practices are accessible, free, and can have a profound impact over time.

(AM): If you were to lead a workshop, what topic would you choose and why?

(JC): I’m actually leading a workshop next month called Mandalas and Masalas, which I’m very excited about. It combines two meditative practices—creating mandalas and blending spices. I’ll teach participants about the Ayurvedic properties of spices and how they support digestion. They’ll also create their own spice blends. While some are blending spices, others will color mandalas, making it an interactive and creative experience.

(AM): That sounds amazing! I’ve never heard of anything like this before. What spices will you focus on?

(JC): I haven’t finalized everything yet, but cumin, coriander, fennel, and turmeric are key ones due to their healing properties. I also love a sweet masala blend with cinnamon, clove, vanilla, and rose petals, which enhances digestion and pairs beautifully with dishes like stewed apples.

(AM): That stewed apple recipe sounds delicious! Would you be willing to share a favorite recipe for the interview transcript?

(JC): It is. I’ll share the apple recipe at the end!

(AM): Just out of curiosity, how are you marketing your workshop?

(JC): Mostly through social media, and the yoga studio is also promoting it with flyers and announcements.

(AM): Great! If you have a link or promotional material, I’d love to include it in the transcript. Your creativity in integrating Ayurveda with hands-on experiences is inspiring.

(JC): Thank you!

(AM): How did you come up with this workshop concept?

(JC): It honestly just came to me—the words mandalas and masalas sounded similar, and I thought they would make a fun, meaningful combination. The owners of my yoga studio, who are both artists, loved the idea and have been incredibly supportive.

(AM): Lucky Cat Yoga in Tampa, right?

(JC): Yes, that’s where I also teach on Wednesdays.

(AM): What do you enjoy most about teaching?

My goal is to help others experience that transformation as well.

(JC): I love sharing the wisdom and knowledge that has been passed down to me. Yoga and Ayurveda have profoundly impacted my life, both mentally and physically, and my goal is to help others experience that transformation as well.

(AM): If you had to summarize what your yoga journey has meant to you, what would you say?

(JC): Yoga has helped me stay grounded and find peace in any moment. It has also led me down unexpected paths—like becoming a chef—that have deepened my understanding of health and wellness. I love the yoga community, and I truly believe everyone can benefit from it.

(AM): Speaking of your culinary background, how did that integrate into your journey?

(JC): I trained with Divya Alter’s Ayurvedic Nutrition and Culinary Program, a two-year course. The first year focused on foundational knowledge, and the second year was a professional training. We had virtual lessons and occasional in-person training in New York, where we learned from Ayurvedic doctors and chefs, including Dr. Robert Graham and Dr. Baswati. One of my favorite workshops was with an Italian chef who taught Ayurvedic-inspired pasta making!

(AM): Very cool. You've shared a little bit about how much you enjoy teaching. I’m wondering, over the years, has there been anything surprising you've learned from your students? Something they've taught you?

(JC): Absolutely. Students are so adaptable and resilient. As a teacher, I find that I learn just as much from them as they do from me. When they bring me a question I haven’t thought about or don’t immediately have an answer to, I get the opportunity to research and deepen my own understanding. I also learn how to explain concepts in a way that makes them more practical and accessible for different individuals.

(AM): Is there something in the fitness or wellness industry—I hesitate to use the word "trend"— that you feel is underappreciated or overlooked? Something that deserves more attention?

(JC): Yes, a couple of things. One is the idea of food as medicine. Many people are searching for a quick fix, whether through diet trends or medication, and while certain medical interventions can be helpful, the foundation should be whole, nourishing foods. Consistency and a balanced diet, like the soul food diet I mentioned earlier, can have profound benefits for the body.

Another overlooked area is restorative yoga and breathwork. Our culture prioritizes high-intensity, fast-paced movement, which can create imbalances, particularly from an Ayurvedic perspective. Taking time to ground and center ourselves through slower practices helps regulate the nervous system and restore balance.

(AM): If you were speaking with someone who’s skeptical about restorative yoga or breathwork, how would you introduce them to it? How might you help them see its value?

(JC): I’d encourage them to try it. If committing to an hour-long class feels overwhelming, even a five- to ten-minute session of pranayama can make a difference. There are many different types, and finding the right fit is key.

Also, there’s a growing body of scientific evidence supporting breathwork's benefits, such as regulating the nervous system, reducing stress, and improving mental health. It’s not just an abstract concept—it’s backed by research.

(AM): That makes a lot of sense. Are there any tools or resources you like to recommend for people interested in restorative yoga or breathwork?

(JC): YouTube is a great place to start—there are many teachers with different styles. "Yoga with Kassandra" is a solid resource; she has a variety of classes and is very accessible for beginners. Social media also has great content, but it’s important to find credible sources.

(AM): Thanks. How about a common myth in the wellness space that you’d like to correct?

Our bodies need a variety of nutrients to function optimally. Balance is key.

(JC): There are a few, especially around diet. One major myth is the idea that you should eliminate entire food groups. Our bodies need a variety of nutrients to function optimally, and removing something like carbs entirely can have negative effects. Balance is key.

(AM): Since you emphasize food as medicine, what principles guide your own meal planning?

(JC): I prioritize eating seasonal, organic, unprocessed, and local foods. Farmer’s markets are great for this, and resources like the University of Florida’s seasonal food guides can help people know what to plant or buy.

Beyond that, I believe in eating with intention and gratitude—acknowledging the journey of our food, from the people who planted and harvested it to those who delivered it to our table.

(AM): I love that perspective. Do you have any daily habits or rituals that help you set the tone for your well-being?

(JC): Practicing gratitude throughout my day is a big one. Whether it’s appreciating a pink sunset during an evening walk or just being present in a quiet moment, acknowledging beauty and gratitude keeps me grounded.

(AM): Pausing here for a fun fact: do you have any unusual or quirky habits?

(JC): Yes! I can’t sleep unless my feet are hanging off the end of the bed. My husband finds it hilarious, but it’s just how I feel comfortable.

(AM): Socks on…or just bare feet?

(JC): No socks, unless it’s really cold! But my feet have to be off the edge!

(AM): [Grinning.] Ok; shifting back to yoga—what advice would you give to someone looking to take their practice to the next level?

(JC): For beginners, focus on learning the postures and developing consistency. For more advanced yogis, explore pranayama and yoga philosophy to deepen your understanding. Yoga teacher training is also a great way to immerse yourself in the practice, even if you don’t plan on teaching.

(AM): Looking back on your career, what’s something you wish you knew when you were first starting in the wellness field?

Consistency matters more than perfection. Give yourself grace.

(JC): I struggled with perfectionism—thinking if I couldn’t do a full hour of yoga, it wasn’t worth doing at all. I’ve learned that even 15 minutes is valuable. Consistency matters more than perfection, and giving yourself grace is key.

(AM): What a great mindset shift. You’re a nurse practitioner, but you also run New Moon Integrated Health. How did that come about?

(JC): I worked in cardiology and saw patients coming in for procedures when they were already very sick. I wanted to focus on prevention—helping people make lifestyle changes before reaching that stage.

Providers often tell patients what not to eat, but rarely explain what they should eat or how to make it work in their lifestyle. That’s where my interest in integrative health and nutrition started. Through my doctorate program, I expanded into mindfulness practices, realizing that true wellness is about more than just food.

(AM): Where do you start with a new client who knows they need help but isn’t sure where to begin?

(JC): I take a holistic approach—looking at their medical history, physical health, mental health, and lifestyle. Small, sustainable changes are the most effective. Something as simple as going to bed 30 minutes earlier can have a significant impact over time.

(AM): 100% agree. Sleep is so crucial.

(JC): Yes! It affects mental health, immunity, and overall well-being. Another common misconception is "low-fat" or "low-sugar" foods being healthy—many are highly processed with artificial ingredients. Mindful eating is so important.

(AM): As a small business owner, what principles do you believe have most helped you succeed?

(JC): Having a clear vision for my clients and seeking mentorship have been key. Learning from others with successful models has been invaluable.

(AM): Do you have any mentors who have shaped your journey?

(JC): Yes! Colette Kent introduced me to Ayurveda through her podcast "Elements of Ayurveda." Divya, who led my Ayurvedic culinary training, has been instrumental. And Angelica Walton, one of my advisors at the University of Minnesota, inspires me with her dedication to patient advocacy.

(AM): Are there any books you frequently recommend?

(JC): I love cookbooks—Divya’s books, like the “Joy of Balance”, are wonderful, filled with Ayurvedic principles and the healing properties of food. "The Four Agreements" is another favorite; it offers profound wisdom for living peacefully.

(AM): Agreed, “The Four Agreements” is a powerful book (and an easy read), thanks for the reminder. Finally, what’s been your most worthwhile investment in the last five years?

(JC): My education. The University of Minnesota’s nursing program has been life-changing, and I love the instructors and the depth of knowledge I’ve gained. I'm in a class this semester about systems thinking and wellbeing and how our individual actions impact others.

(AM): I want to revisit one of the words you just said—systems thinking. I'm curious, how might you describe this concept? What is systems thinking?

Just by acknowledging that your actions impact others could really have a profound effect on the state of our world.

(JC): Everything is a system. Our home is a system, our work environment is a system—our cities, our communities, states, everything, our world. We're all human and we're all connected. We have similar feelings. Everybody wants to be happy; everyone has fear and doubt. That's one of the biggest lessons I've learned in nursing. I've taken care of homeless patients and I've taken care of celebrities, and every single person in the hospital bed is the exact same. I think just by acknowledging that your actions impact others could really have a profound effect on the state of our world.

(JC): And I really believe that we need to get away from only viewing the world through our own lens, but rather through the lens of others. Have more empathy. We've strayed away from this concept.

(AM): Thank you very much for sharing that additional context and information. So important—thinking about all people as being interconnected.

(AM): In the last few years, is there a new belief, behavior, or habit that has most improved your life?

(JC): I think letting go of the need to be perfect. Especially in nursing, you always have to be two steps ahead, planning everything, and that changed my personality. Recognizing the unhealthy nature of perfectionaism and allowing myself to let go of things I can't control has been a big shift for me.

(AM): Has anything helped you personally in that process—letting go, being less of a perfectionist? Something that guided you on that journey?

(JC): Last year, I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. It was found incidentally—I had no symptoms—but I had to have a total hysterectomy. At that time, my life was nonstop, and it forced me to pause. I couldn’t work, I couldn’t clean. The first few days after my surgery, my husband had to help me get into bed. I started small—just walking around my house, then up and down the block, then to the park. Even getting back into yoga, I took my time, listened to my body, and honored when I needed to rest. That’s been a huge lesson for me.

(AM): What a powerful example. Thank you so much for sharing that. That actually answered another question I had about challenges you’ve faced and how you’ve overcome them. Beautiful response with so much to think about—thank you.
I just have a few more questions, Jenny, and I appreciate your time. Are there any projects you're working on right now that you're especially excited about?

(JC): Yes, I’m partnering with Meals on Wheels locally. The Tampa branch provides medically tailored meals for homebound individuals. I’m conducting a project to assess the impact of these meals on patients with heart failure. I love the mission behind their work, and I’m excited to research the impact on patient health outcomes.

(AM): Oh, wow. Very cool! I’d love to hear how it goes once you wrap up the project. Keep me posted!

(JC): Definitely!

(AM): And you have another project this summer—a retreat in Costa Rica. What’s your personal leadership style? What will you bring to that experience with Christina and Kristen?

(JC): I consider myself both a leader and a collaborator. When leadership is needed, I step up, but I also love supporting others when they have a vision. Everyone learns differently, so having different personalities and teaching styles at a yoga retreat is a huge benefit.

(AM): Absolutely.

(JC): Having multiple instructors, a team, helps participants get the most out of the experience. They might resonate more with one instructor than another, and that’s okay.

(AM): You have a unique connection to the moon, right? Your business is called New Moon Integrative Health. Can you talk about that?

(JC): Yeah! My husband and I got married on April Fool’s Day in Savannah, Georgia—we eloped. That night was a new moon, and we picked April 1st because the sun and moon were both at 11 degrees. Our special number is 1111. That’s where the name New Moon came from.

(AM): Got it! What was the term you used for the numbers? I didn’t quite catch that.

(JC): 1111! My husband and I text each other when we see repeating numbers—1111, 222, things like that. It’s just our little way of saying, “I’m thinking of you.”

(AM): You like number patterns…

(JC): Yes, exactly.

(AM): And do you incorporate moon phases into your work at all? Or am I making that up?

(JC): No, you're right! In Ayurveda, the moon has a cooling effect. For example, you can place drinks or tea under moonlight to absorb that energy. I also had a special experience during a full moon while on a yoga retreat in France. That trip was life-changing—I traveled alone, spent time reflecting, and even got a tattoo of the moon phases and a moth to commemorate it. The moon has always found its way into my life.

(AM): I’ve noticed a lot of yoga leaders incorporate the moon into their work. Why do you think that is?

(JC): The moon affects us just like the sun does. It regulates tides, and you hear about the energy shifts during a full moon. As a nurse, I’ve seen that hospital patients can act differently around a full moon! Ayurveda teaches that the sun provides heat and the moon provides cooling, which affects everything—including how our food grows. It’s all connected to nature.

(AM): I’ve also heard that more babies are born on full moons. Is that true?

(JC): Oh, I don’t know! I’ve never heard that, but maybe!

(AM): Haha, positive energy, I guess!  like to ask yoga instructors—do you have a favorite product or tool that you use all the time and can’t live without?

(JC): Yes! I use a tongue scraper every morning. It’s an Ayurvedic practice. Overnight, toxins (called “ama”) build up on your tongue. Scraping them off before eating or drinking prevents them from being reabsorbed. It also improves breath and oral health. Digestion starts in the mouth, so keeping it healthy is important.

(AM): Dentists everywhere are cheering—oral hygiene is key!

(JC): Indeed!

(AM): Well, Jenny, is there anything I forgot to ask? Anything else you'd like to share?

(JC): I’m just really grateful for this opportunity. Thank you for reaching out. I believe in passing along knowledge, traditions, and practices to improve well-being.

(AM): Of course. And thank you for sharing! I learned a lot, you have a fascinating journey, and I appreciate your time. Oh, and what’s the best way for people to connect with you?

(JC): Probably social media. I’m most active on Instagram, but I also check Facebook weekly. Email is another good option—NewMoonIntegrativeHealth@gmail.com.

(AM): And your Instagram handle is @NewMoonIntegrativeHealth?

(JC): Yes.

(AM): Perfect. Well, Jenny, that’s everything I have. I know you’re finalizing the itinerary with Christina and Kristen, and I’ll send you more retreat logistics soon. I’m really looking forward to working with you and promoting your retreat this summer!

(JC): Awesome. Thanks again!

(AM): You’re welcome, Jenny. Have a wonderful rest of your week!

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Jenny’s Stewed Apples Recipe:

Ingredients:

-  1 Apple (My favorite are Pink Lady)

- 1 teaspoon ghee

- 1 teaspoon of preferred ground spice (cinnamon, cardamom, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, or create your own combinations!)

- 1/3 cup filtered water

Directions:

Core and peel the apple. Cut into thin slices. Add water and apples to a saucepan. Cover and simmer. Stir as needed to prevent the apples from sticking. Once soft, add ghee and spice. Gently stir. Avoid overcooking the apples as they can become mushy. Serve warm.