About Us

About Jennifer Lynn

While attending a yoga retreat on Maui in 1997, Jennifer had a Shaktipat (a spiritual awakening) that propelled her out of the corporate world and into the life of her dreams. She has been teaching yoga for a living ever since, sharing yoga as a never-ending awakening of deeper and deeper levels of personal potential in the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual realms. She helps her students recognize their own power and potential to live freely and joyfully; it is when we are living our greatest joy that we are offering our greatest gift.

Jennifer’s flow classes incorporate the spinal wave-like movements and intentional transitions of TriYoga with the universal principles of alignment from Anusara Yoga. The rigorous Vinyasa flows in her advanced classes strengthen and purify the body. The careful attention to alignment and therapeutic action in her beginning classes set students up for pain-free living and injury-free yoga. In all classes, core strength is cultivated as the root of all movement, and opening the heart as our highest intention.

Read more about Jennifer ...
Jennifer always emphasizes deep breathing as the most important part of the practice. The breath is the thread that connects us to our divinity. When we are breathing deeply and consciously we are moving energy in connection with the divine. When we learn to flow with the breath, we learn to live in connection to spirit. Jennifer’s classes are designed to align us with our higher Self so we can live from this higher place and experience love and peace within ourselves and in all our relations.

Jennifer studied TriYoga, founded by Kaliji, for eight years. Her teachers Nandi, Shanti, Tom, Gina, and Bill provided her a solid foundation of education in the physical and spiritual aspects of yoga. In 1999 at the Colorado Yoga Journal Conference, Jennifer discovered Anusara Yoga, founded by John Friend, and fell in love. She has studied with John Friend, senior Anusara teachers Desiree Rumbaugh and Sundari Lucey for two years. She also studied Ashtanga-based Vinyasa Yoga with Max Strom and Shiva Rea in Santa Monica.

Jennifer holds a B.A. in Math and Computer Science from San Jose State University and worked as an engineer for Hewlett Packard for many years. She has also experimented with alternative lifestyles living for three years as an organic farmer growing her own food and reusing or recycling everything she purchased. Jennifer believes we have the potential to live rich and comfortable lives without harming each other or the planet and it is our spiritual mandate to find new and creative ways to make this happen while serving our own joyful expression.

In addition to giving public classes, Jennifer offers Yoga Alliance Certified Teacher Training Programs at her Certified School: Wisdom Flow Yoga in Makawao, Maui HI.

The Wisdom Flow Yoga Teacher Training Manual is available online and includes rich material for those advancing their practice or stepping toward the seat of the teacher.

Jennifer has produced a Flow Yoga DVD. It is available on Amazon.com as are her vegan cookbook titled “Made with Love” and her book on the healing properties of young coconuts called “The Amazing Coconut.”

Wisdom Flow Studio

Wisdom Flow Studio is located at 95 Makawao Ave. between Old Haleakala and New Haleakala Highways.

It is a few doors down from Pukalani Superette, two doors down from First Hawaiian Bank and right next door to Kojima’s Japanese Restaurant. Our building is set way back from the street which makes our studios peaceful and private. There are tibetan flags on our building and lining the parking lot. We are directly across the street from the horse pasture next to the Fire Station. We have 21 parking spots and 6-8 overflow spots along the east edge of the lot. If the lot is full, please park on Makawao Ave. across from the building.

Our Studio entrance is on the right side of the building near the back. Walk down the right side of the building towards the red “Entrance” sign. You will pass the doors to the Spa below us. Under the awning is the doorway to our Back Studio. Go up the stairs and you will be greeted. If you arrive late for yoga class and everyone is already in the quiet meditation before asana, please sit quietly in the stairwell until you hear the opening Om. Then come in and set up your mat.

Explore the studio ...

Sacred space is a huge part of an effective yoga practice. Quiet, clean, organized, beautiful, spacious, welcoming, inspiring: these are qualities present in a sacred space. Wisdom Flow Studio was built with these clear intentions.

The second story space looks out over the rolling hills of Makawao and out to the north shore of Maui. The bamboo floor and high ceilings create a light and natural feel. The root-chakra-red walls with chocolate trim add a grounding and earthy element.

The huge mural on the south wall is a miraculous gift from a budding artist from Argentina, Ariel Quiroz. The mural depicts the Tri-Murti (triples gods) and Tri-Devi (triple goddesses) of Hindu mythology. The three gods, Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, represent the energies of creation, sustaining, and liberation. Their lovers, Saraswiti, Lakshmi, and Durga, represent the physical manifestation of these energies. For example, Saraswiti is the goddess of wisdom, and she teaches us that when we want to create something new (Brahma energy) we need to filter it through succinct thought so we are wise and create something lasting and good. The stories that unfold from the mural are endless, and students report receiving direct transmissions of inspiration and healing from the painting.

Wisdom Flow Studio in Pukalani is easily accessible to North Shore and Upcountry residents, next door to Pukalani Square. Our parking lot has 30 spaces, and overflow can move next door. There is a walking path from the Pukalani Square parking lot to ours.

In addition to offering great yoga, dance and fitness classes, our studio space may be rented after hours for lectures, workshops, and small performances.

Wisdom Flow Yoga

Wisdom Flow Yoga offers sacred space for personal exploration through direct experience on the mat. Words don’t teach, Wisdom comes through direct experience.  Through asana, breath, mindfulness, each individual receives unique guidance to unfold their personal path of peace, healing, and joyful growth. Rather than telling students the “right way” to do a pose, Wisdom Flow Yoga teaches awareness of alignment principles based on the sacred geometry of the body. Each student applies these principles uniquely to bring appropriate growth for their body and their current conditions. Just as musicians combine notes uniquely to make their own music, we invite students to use the elements of optimal alignment to tune their instrument and enjoy adding their unique music to the symphony of life. 

Wisdom Flow Yoga balances the masculine elements of precise alignment and core strength with the feminine elements of graceful transitions and meditative flow. Deep breath weaves these elements into union within us and around us as we walk each other down this path of peace and empowerment.

Discover the philosophy ...
Jennifer has spent years studying scripture and exploring through direct experience the underlying matrix of several spiritual paths. She has condensed the teachings into stories, aphorisms, and visions that are empowering, healing, and uplifting.

The core philosophy of yoga is this: God is within each of us; we are here to expand expressions of God/Love through our unique creations; by disciplining our minds and bodies we can allow more divinity into our lives; and by dreaming with clarity and living in worthiness, the orchestration of these dreams unfold naturally in divine timing and manifest in a way that serves our highest and makes an offering to those around us.

Yoga Benefits

Yoga teaches us not to panic

The steady breath and quiet witness state established in yoga clams the flight or fight response and heals over-active adrenal glands teaching us to breath, observe, and think clearly before responding. The practice of continually moving into to tight and weak places in our body while staying calm and attentive also builds patterns of intelligent, life-enhancing response.

Yoga builds bones

Osteoblasts (bone building cells) are produced when muscles consistently hug against bone. the stability required for yoga asana causes muscle to squeeze against bone all over your body… building strong bone beneath.

Yoga heals joint pain

Joint congruency means a joint moves with even pressure across the articular surfaces keeping the joint healthy. This is only possible when the joint is properly aligned as it moves. Good yoga teaches optimal alignment of joint and core-based movement to heal joints and keep them pain-free and mobile.

Yoga heals low back problems
Most low back problems come from compression that impinges major nerves and limits articulation (free movement). A good yoga teacher will make sure students are lengthening ribs away from hip in every pose to decompress the lumbar region. Building deep abdominal strength is also a key factor in stabilizing a dodgy low back.
Yoga detoxifies the body

Nearly 80% of toxins in our bodies are released through exhales. Most adults in the western world breathe at 30% capacity. Our short shallow breathing cheats us of the natural detox process we need to keep the immune system strong. Proper yoga emphasizes deep breathing as the number one priority. As you learn to consciously breathe deep and slow on the mat, your daily breath patterns will expand helping you purify your body with every breath.

Yoga reduces inflammation

Inflammation is a natural protective response to an injured area. Internal injuries (joint surfaces or internal organs) can cause great discomfort and limitation. The inflammatory response will continue until the body gets a clear signal the healing is underway. Yoga gives this calming signal be soothing the nervous system and helping move toxins and bits of scar tissue away from the injured area.

Yoga calms a worried mind

Most of what we worry about never happens. and the parts of our life we can make better are cheated of our attention and energy when we spend time worrying about things we cannot control. on top of that, chronic worry has a direct affect on our hormones and the holding patterns in our musculature. Yoga teaches us to consciously release the agitations of the mind to allow the body to rebalance and the mind to clear. Eventually we live with a clear calm mind.

Yoga strengthens solution-oriented thinking

Yoga philosophy teaches that every problem come “pre-packaged” with its own solutions. It is our habit of giving the problem more energy than the solution that keeps us from creating solutions quickly and moving on. By taking us into “problems” (tight or weak places) and offering the “solution” deep breathing, clear intention and persistent practice, we witness our power to transmute problems into solutions and growth. This meta pattern gels into our bones and becomes part of the way we approach life.

Yoga develops ethics and appropriate priorities

The body never lies and if we are willing to listen it will tell us the truth of who we are and show us the shadowy patterns that hide that truth. often we are very good at deceiving ourselves about the current conditions of our lives. We slip around ideas of behaving virtuously and choosing nobly often falling into nasty habits of self-sabotage. By visiting the asanas regularly we are forced to experience the physical manifestation of our patterns and we find the only way to make lasting change is to see things as they are and systematically unravel them and rebuild sustainable patterns. We witness the body completely transforming with these “ethics and right priorities” and naturally they become part of our life choices off the mat.

Yoga rebalances hormones

Many of the asanas are designed specifically to wring out internal organs and endocrine glands. This “rinse and soak” effect of gently squeezing a gland then releasing removes stagnant energy and chemicals and allows a flood of fresh blood through the gland. Our blood is filled with the neurotransmitters and other elements necessary to regulate hormonal release so we want fresh blood flowing through these glands.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is yoga?

The word Yoga is derived from the root sanskrit work “yug” meaning to yoke or join together. Yoga aims to cultivate awareness of both the seen and unseen worlds and join them in fruitful harmony. When our physical bodies are strong and open it is much easier to be happy and kind human beings. Yoga is a practice of expanding our awareness of these relationships between our physical patterns and the energy we experience and consciously shifting them to be more life enhancing.

Is yoga a religion?
No. Yoga is a lifestyle, a set of physical and mental disciplines that enhance the function of our bodies and minds as channels of our creative power. The iconography and characters used to unfold the yoga philosophy are not Gods and Goddesses in a religious sense. They represent energies of nature and humanity and are used to help us understand and intelligently respond to the challenges of life and love.
When did yoga begin?
The exact date is not clear. The written guidelines of yoga (called the Yoga Sutras) date back 2,130 years ago, but it is postulated that the oral tradition and physical practices were around for many centuries before the Sutras were written. About 5000 years ago, during a time of peace and abundance in the Indus valley, a group of seekers called the Rishis (the “seers”) was formed. These were people who devoted their lives to observing nature very closely and contemplating the inherent order, intelligence, and beauty of nature. It is said that this study of the dance of energy and form in nature inspired the disciplines that make up the Yoga Practice.
Are yoga and meditation the same?
Essentially, all of yoga is meant to be a meditation on the Source Energy we arise from and the brilliant form we are in while here on Earth. Seated meditation, where the mind is cleared of agitating thought patterns and allowed to contemplate the mystery of life, can be part of an individual yoga practice and is often part of a yoga class. Remember that there is no expected outcome from meditation: it is simply an opportunity to calm and clear the mind to feel into your own mystery.
What is Om? Why do we chant Om before class?
Om is simply a clearing tone. It gently sweeps the mind clear of habituated thinking and prepares us to be present during class. Om is also the frequency of creation. It was originally spelled AUM. The “Ah” sound of the A is the rising of new creation. The “Oo” sound of the U is the top of the wave representing nectar from creations in fullness. The “Mm” sound of the M represents the natural dissolving of creations when they have run their cycle and are ready to crumble. Chanting the sound reminds us to “go with the flow” of these natural waves of creation, fullness, and release.
What is Namaste? Why do teachers say it after class? What should I say in response?
Namaste (Nah-Mah-Stay) literally means: “to you, I bow.” It is a recognition of our unshakable unity with each other and all life. It is a reminder that God and Goodness are within each of us. Teachers say it after yoga class because the asana practice is meant to shed the armoring that can hide our natural light, and when it is revealed, we want to bow in reverence to the light we see in others. When someone says “Namaste” to you, it is expected that you would say “Namaste” in return. In class, you are free to simply bow in silence as well.
If I’ve never been to yoga and I am stiff, how should I begin?
Many people begin yoga by taking private lessons in the comfort of their own home. This way the beginner student gets clear, careful instruction suited to his or her current conditions. The fundamentals of breathing deeply and moving with balanced action can be established before the student enters a busy classroom. Familiarity with some of the basic poses also adds to the comfort level when the student is ready to join a public class. Wisdom Flow Studio offers an 8-week beginning yoga course twice yearly (March-April and October-November) as another alternative for new students entering into the practice.
How often should I practice?
It depends. When we first begin yoga classes, coming face to face with our tight and weak places can be overwhelming. We want to push gently on the edge of our limits and expand them in a way that feels interesting rather than irritating. We want to feel the soreness of muscles growing stronger without limiting our ability to move through our day. Ultimately a devoted yogi practices every day, but that does not have to mean s/he comes to class every day. Breathing consciously while you drive to work, standing on one foot while waiting in line at the bank, taking a deep breath before responding to a challenge – these are all yoga practices. Most students who settle into a lifelong practice will come to class 3-4 times a week. Those wanting to become teachers or enhance their athleticism will come 5-6 times per week.
What is Ujjayi Breath?

Ujjayi (U-JAI-EE) breathing is the breathing technique used when we move through asanas (poses). It tones the deep core and pelvic floor to create stability to support us in vigorous movement. It also builds heat in the body to help bring suppleness to tight muscles. The sound of this breath keeps the mind from wandering or panicking as we practice. There are many layers of awareness to this breath, and seasoned yogis agree that it is a never-ending practice to refine ujjayi breathing and reveal more of it benefits. The basic description of Ujjayi breathing is this:

– Relax the root of the tongue, rest the tip lightly behind top front teeth

– Gently tone the top of the throat and draw breath slowly in and out of a relaxed nose

– Open the inner ears to hear the hissing sound as the breath passes over toned throat top

– Contract pelvic floor and deep abdomen on inhales, flare side ribs and upper chest

– Exhale slow and steady finishing exhales by drawing the navel back towards the spine

What am I supposed to feel in Savasana?
Savasana is the deep relaxation period at the close of an asana practice. It is typically 6-10 minutes – anything shorter is not effective. This pose is meant to allow the body to absorb the energetic benefits of the physical and mental practice. It is a time to be absolutely still and quiet so the old energetic patterns can dissolve and make room for new ones. You may feel uncomfortable with the stillness and silence at first. Try not to fidget or open your eyes. Soon you will come to enjoy the quiet respite from the spin of the outer world and find that savasana can be hugely refreshing. Some people have revelations and inspirations during savasana; other people feel like they’ve slept 10 hours. Each person has a unique experience of savasana, and it evolves as our practice deepens.
Basic Class Etiquette

– Arrive 5-10 minutes early

– Arrive clean without perfume or cologne

– Pay before class

– Turn cell phones off

– Make room for people in a crowded class

– Do not leave during savasana

How is Wisdom Flow Yoga different from other styles?
Wisdom Flow Yoga focuses on teaching students the fundamental architecture of their bodies and how to honor it through the dynamics of vinyasa (transitional moments). Wisdom Flow Yoga also emphasizes that our life force energy is meant to flow, and the practice is a check-in to see where the flow might be stuck or where it might be overflowing. When we move in optimal alignment with core strength supporting the flow of movement, strength and fluidity are appropriately balanced to support spinal integrity and joint congruency (even pressure across joined surfaces).

Alignment principles are presented with clear titles that are easy to remember and apply off the mat. For example, “The Four Corners of the Torso Live in the Back of the Body”. The four corners are the shoulder heads and the top of the thighbones. Students learn to press them back to keep hip and shoulder joints optimally aligned as they move. So Wisdom Flow Yoga is very intelligent and easy to apply as a therapeutic practice. At the same time, the dynamic movement set to music is fun and invigorating, building cardiovascular strength, core strength, and graceful movement.

the Zen of Jen
Surya Namaskar – Integrating Solar Energy

What is Surya Namaskar?  Generally, people understand Surya Namaskar as an exercise: it strengthens your back, your muscles, etc. Yes, it definitely does do all that and more. It is quite a complete workout for the physical system – a comprehensive exercise form...

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Rhythm Fit

Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 10:30AM - 11:30AM After the kids are in school, come and take care of YOU! Join Jennifer for this frisky music-driven class.  Rhythm Fit starts with cardio movement set to upbeat popular music.  Weights and loop bands are used to...

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Intuitive Vinyasa

Monday 5-6:15PM with Lauren Bell Join Lauren for these delicious classes that blend cleansing Vinyasa sequences with soothing floor poses.  Intuitive Vinyasa Yoga starts with dynamic rhythmic sequences that gently cleanse the body. Options are given for strong or...

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Dancing Medicine Sign Up

We are thrilled you will join us for Dancing Medicine.  Kabba Anand hosts these Open Floor events every Sunday 10:30AM-Noon.  Pre-booking is required.  It is also easy.  Here is how... To book yourself into a Dance Medicine class, Go to the Wisdom Flow Schedule Page...

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Tai Chi Chuan Yang Style

  Tai Chi - Mondays 10:30-11:30AM.  Starts December 5, 2022. Learn Tai Chi form with Master Jan Osterneck. A regular Tai Chi practice increases balance, health, vitality, flexibility and Grace. This ancient art and science cultivates a strong connection between...

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Sound Journey with Gentle Thunder

Saturday July 30th, 2022 from 6:30to 8:00PM. Gentle Thunder will take you on a meditative journey back in time, into the future, then back to the present where you may experience deep levels of self healing, and a profound discovery of self-love!  Find out more about...

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Yoga in Maui Classes and Retreats offered by Wisdom Flow Yoga

Visit Us!

Wisdom Flow Studio
95 Makawao Ave
Pukalani, Hawaii 96768

808-268-4095