Getting to Know Us: A Blog Series (Gabby)
Meet our girl Gabby.
She quite literally runs the show around here. From her first in person yoga class right after we opened in 2019, to being a part of our first ever Yoga Teacher Training, to becoming our lead teacher, to now running the Springfield studio - her passion, dedication, and transformative approach to practicing and teaching are the essence of everything we’re all about.
With over 3.5 years of experience under her belt, teaching yoga has become more than just a job to Gabby—it's a calling that resonates deeply in her soul. Reflecting on her journey, she shares, "Teaching was never on my radar, although in hindsight it makes so much sense as I’ve always naturally gravitated towards leadership roles both personally and professionally."
In the last year and a half, she’s also taken over as our aerial guru, kids’ aerial teacher, and preschool bubble yoga queen! Her classes are equally loved by all ages.
Gabby’s introduction to yoga was serendipitous. She stumbled on some of her mom’s yoga DVD’s when she was experiencing emotional struggles at age 18. The practice created such a sense of peace for her that she says, "I knew from the very beginning of my personal practice that I would never not do yoga again."
To Gabby, yoga is not just a physical practice but a holistic journey of self-discovery and growth. "The practice created such a sense of peace and connection within me - physically, mentally, and emotionally. It was like magic," she shares. This magic became the driving force behind her decision to become a yoga teacher, with a desire to share the transformative power of yoga with others.
As a teacher, Gabby’s philosophy centers around being a perpetual student first and foremost. She’s always learning something new, expanding her education, taking new trainings, and studying other teachers’ methods.
Her classes are a fusion of traditional poses, creative sequencing, and a variety of methodologies that reflect her ongoing journey of learning and exploration. Her mantra of "discomfort brings growth" echoes through her teachings, inspiring students to embrace challenges, find joy in their practice, and prioritize self-care. "I want my students to leave my class with a lightness in their minds and in their souls."
“Your reason for getting on your mat will always change, and your reason is always right. Every day looks different. Every practice looks different. Some days you have 100% to give and some days you only have 20% to give. On those days, your 20% IS your 100% and that’s on AND off your mat.”
The Jax community is Gabby’s home base for both her practice and her career. ” My favorite thing about teaching at Jax will always be the community. Teaching at Jax has changed my life and the people I’ve met are largely responsible for that. Jax as a community is so welcoming, inclusive, warm, loving, and FUN!”
We aren’t sure how the mind and body of such a tiny young yogi can hold so much wisdom, but Gabby is always teaching us and holding us accountable for the way we practice yoga in the studio, in business, and most importantly, in life. She’s everything that’s good about this community, and she embodies everything we believe about yoga and life.
"There is no statute of limitations on starting over. Re-invent yourself every day. Be a phoenix. Be ashes. Burn down. Resurrect. Let go of the idea that you must always be who you have always been" This sentiment encapsulates the essence of Gabby’s teaching style—blending resilience, growth, and an unwavering commitment to personal transformation; leaving all of our minds and bodies in better shape than when she found us.
Gabby teaches everything, but currently she is teaching: Vin + Yin in Springfield and Jville, some yoga 1’s and all levels flows, most of our aerial and kids’ aerial classes, Friday Flow, and multiple series and events. She’s a certified “Science of Stretching” coach, and also teaches one on one sessions. Follow her on Instagram and Facebook (Gabby Decker).