Meet Jillian: The Center’s Chair Yoga Instructor
I’m Jillian — originally from Chili, Wisconsin, a country girl at heart. My husband and I met while attending St. Cloud State University, where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Community Health. After college, I began my career with Carver County on a grant-funded program called the Healthy Living Education Series for Seniors. I traveled throughout the county bringing speakers and wellness programs to assisted and independent living communities, educating seniors on health topics that impact their daily lives. That experience sparked my passion for helping others live healthy, vibrant lives at every age.
When I was 21, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. That life-changing moment catapulted me into the world of personal empowerment and wellness. Along my healing journey, I’ve built a “wellness toolbox” filled with practices that support my mind, body, and spirit, including yoga, meditation, nutrition, exercise, chiropractic care, massage, supplements, affirmations, journaling, restorative sleep, and daily connection with nature and others.
Because of all the health and wellness I have achieved in my life, I wanted to share the knowledge and experience I’ve gathered over the years, so in 2022, I started my business, By Any Means Yoga and Wellness. Through this work, I’m able to share my passion for accessible movement, mindfulness, and health with others in a way that truly aligns with my life’s purpose.
With over 20 years of experience in wellness, I’ve continued to expand my knowledge and certifications. I am trained and certified through:
- NETA-CGEI (Certified Group Exercise Instructor)
- HIIT it with Yoga
- Pilates Anatomy and Yoga Foundations
- Silver & Fit Signature Series Classes (Certified Instructor)
- A.E.A. (Aquatic Exercise Association) and Arthritis Foundation’s Aquatic Leader
- Blooma’s Prenatal Teacher Training Level 1
- American Red Cross CPR and First Aid
I’ve been teaching chair yoga for 3 years, where I learn how beautiful aging can be. I love that chair yoga makes movement accessible to everyone, regardless of age, mobility, or experience. It’s so fulfilling to see people discover they can move their bodies, improve balance and flexibility, and find calm all from the support and safety of a chair. The connection, laughter, and relaxation that come from each class truly lightens my load and brightens my day.
If I could offer one piece of advice to anyone thinking about trying chair yoga, it would be this: just start. You don’t need to be flexible or experienced, simply come as you are. You might be amazed by how good it feels to move, stretch, and breathe with intention.
I currently work full-time as a Special Education Teacher at the Brainerd Senior High School while pursuing my Master’s degree as an Academic Behavior Specialist. Outside of teaching and studying, I love spending time watching my 3 growing boys play sports, spend time outdoors, enjoying the lakes, gardening, reading and spending as much time with my extended family as I can. I’m so grateful to share the joy of chair yoga and the power of wellness with others, helping each person feel more at home in their own body.
Gratefully,
Jillian Means