When yoga was beginning to gain traction in Cebu around 2012 to 2013, among those who have spearheaded the growth of the local yoga community was Jenifer Martinez. As a certified yoga instructor, she has inspired many Cebuanos to not only try the exercise but to devote themselves to healthier lifestyles. 

Over the years, Jenifer has sparked interest in a new generation of yogis and yoginis, many of whom were her students in her yoga studio. From her studio grew a thriving community and finally, in 2018, she was instrumental in organizing the first yoga festival in the city, Cebu YogaFest, which gathered over 1,000 participants in one weekend. 

As the pandemic hit and restrictions were placed in holding group activities – yoga classes and festivals included – it has not in any way hampered her passion and drive to stick to her fitness goals. 

“The practice of yoga is very different when you practice by yourself and when you teach it in a class. One major factor is you get to feel everyone’s energy and support,” she explained. Jenifer continues to teach yoga once a week, and she often explores other exercise programs too. “I always incorporate my yoga practice to TRX,” she said, “but lately I have been trying out Pilates and I really like it!” 

For Jenifer, fitness, and wellness go hand in hand, and it is not solely about yoga or any physical activity. “Wellness is an act of practicing healthy habits on a daily basis. To attain better physical and mental health outcomes, so that instead of just surviving, you’re thriving,” she said. 

“I make sure to quiet my mind at least 30 minutes a day because if your body and mind are fully rested, you feel strong and confident. I make sure to treat myself, especially after a long day’s work. I really don’t force myself.”

I listen to my body and take a break because in wellness, it’s not a sprint, it’s a journey,

Going for a holistic approach, Jenifer is likewise mindful of her food intake as one of the ways she stays healthy. Here’s a tip she divulged: “When you see the colors of the rainbow in the food that you are about to eat, that in itself is a healthy meal.”

One of her favorites to prep at home is the Buddha bowl. Named after the big, round “belly”, a Buddha bowl typically refers to a vegetarian meal filled with rice or grains, veggies, legumes, nuts, and vegetarian protein like beans or tofu. “Basically what you need in a day are all there,” she enthusiastically shared. 

As a mom of three, Jenifer has also been proactive in teaching the importance of fitness to her children. “The best way to encourage them really is by practicing what you preach, make sure you are a role model as well,” she said. 

Her children had tried yoga even when they were younger, highlighting what Jenifer had always said about yoga: it is inclusive and it is for everyone. Whether one is young or old, and regardless of fitness level and experience, yoga can calm the mind and strengthen the body. 

People usually think that if you improve physically then mentally it will follow, but usually it’s the other way around. Grow mentally first and everything will just follow.

As a yoga instructor, Jenifer has encountered many who have been disheartened in their journey to fitness. She said, “Motivation levels fluctuate for everyone. It’s normal and even fitness gurus get tired from time to time. So before you start, accept that there will be times when you do not feel like moving. If it happens, remind yourself that it is not a failure – it’s simply life getting in the way.” 

Jenifer stressed that one must be ready for these situations, moments she herself is also familiar with as these have happened to her before too. She advised, “Think about strategies how to overcome those hurdles and how you can pick up where you left off. Don’t be discouraged. It happens to all of us. Relax and take it easy.” 

And just how it is in fitness, she added, “Life is a journey, and not a race.”

^{Photography by Ryan Seismundo | Videography by PointUp Films | Hair and Makeup by Karlo Damolo and Jerwin Batastas | Set design by Cuckoo Cloud Concepts | Shot on location at Asmara Urban Resort & Lifestyle Village}