If you've spent time with Manduka over the years, you've likely seen Ivorie Jenkins. Featured across campaigns, stories, and product imagery, the Los Angeles-based yoga therapist and educator has long been a beloved part of the broader Manduka community. Behind those familiar images is a journey that spans professional dance, international travel, therapeutic study, and a lifelong exploration of movement as a path toward healing.
Originally from Chicago, Ivorie spent more than fifteen years as a professional dancer, performing nationally and internationally before joining the original cast of Viva Elvis with Cirque du Soleil. During that time, yoga became a pre- and post-performance ritual, supporting both the physical demands of performance and the mental challenges that often accompany life as an artist.
As her relationship with yoga deepened, so did her curiosity about the roots of the practice. A solo three-month journey through India, which she describes as "Soul Travel," became a defining chapter. Traveling through more than fifteen cities, staying in ashrams, studying with teachers, volunteering, and completing a 10-day Vipassana meditation retreat, she experienced yoga as something far broader than movement alone.
Today, Ivorie teaches yoga full-time, drawing from extensive studies in yoga, prenatal yoga, and yoga therapeutics. Her work as a yoga teacher reflects a belief that yoga is not a one-size-fits-all system, but a deeply personal practice that can support healing, awareness, and resilience in different ways for different people.
We caught up with Ivorie to talk about her path to teaching, the lessons she's learning right now, and what continues to keep her inspired after years of guiding students.
How did you first discover yoga?
I was forced to take yoga by the rehearsal director of a dance company I danced with in my twenties. We had ballet on Mondays and Wednesdays, Horton technique on Thursdays, and Bikram yoga on Fridays. I eventually came to love the practice, and during my time with Cirque du Soleil, yoga became a pre- and post-performance ritual. It offered me a sanctuary from the stress of the entertainment industry and the negative self-judgment that can plague the minds of artists.
How would you describe your teaching style?
Challenging yet supportive.
What do you love most about being in the role of teacher?
Feedback from students about how impactful the practice is for them personally keeps me motivated. So much of being a teacher is repeating yourself — your cues, your stories, your jokes! — sometimes you wonder if it's landing.
How do you stay connected to your own practice, especially when you're busy holding space for others?
Sigh. This is a constant negotiation. Some weeks, my practice has to be as simple as finishing my tea while it's still hot, or being fully present — no phone allowed — with my babies after school. I try not to be too hard on myself if I can't make time to roll out my mat.
What are you currently learning, unlearning, or leaning into in this season of life?
Unlearning that I have to do it all and control it all. Learning what success really means to me. Leaning into whimsy and pleasure.
One lesson you keep learning, on or off the mat?
Release control.
Finally, what's your favorite Manduka product?
That huge PRO Squared mat!
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Practice with Ivorie
A few intentional minutes can make a meaningful difference. In this gentle 15 minute practice, Ivorie guides movements designed to bring greater ease, mobility, and support to the low back.
Listen Along
These are some of Ivorie's favorite songs to flow and teach to.
Connect with Ivorie
Follow Ivorie on Instagram for updates on classes, retreats, and reflections from her life and teaching.
Instagram: @ivoriejenkins
Practice with Ivorie in Los Angeles at North Ray Yoga and The Walkgood Yard, explore her online classes on Glo, or join her for a wellness retreat on the Mexican Pacific from December 26, 2026, to January 2, 2027.
Partner With Manduka
Manduka has supported teachers, studios, and wellness spaces since 1997. Whether you're a yoga teacher, studio, gym, fitness center, or hotel wellness lead, there's a partnership program designed for you. Learn more about working with Manduka.
