Kristen Baureis

Anthony Mandela (AM):
Thanks, Kristen, for taking the time to chat. I'm curious about your wellness journey. What got you interested in becoming a yoga teacher and movement specialist? I think you’re also a travel advisor, too, yes? How did you get started in this space?  

Kristen Baureis (KB):
Sure! I got into wellness back in 2015 when I started working at a place called Vitamin Discount Center. It’s a vitamin and supplement store, and I was a marketing coordinator there. I learned a lot about health and wellness while writing for their blog and magazine and organizing events like vendor conferences. Through that, I got to know suppliers and their products, which helped me learn how to take care of myself and educate others. 

My yoga journey actually started with that job. There was a yoga studio in the same plaza as my workplace, and I interviewed the owner for a blog piece. She gave me a few free classes so I could write about my experience, and I loved it. I ended up doing a new student month special. After that, I didn’t take more yoga classes for a while, but I stayed at my job. 

Eventually, I started feeling stagnant and unfulfilled. I went back to the yoga studio owner and told her how I was feeling. She suggested a yoga teacher training that was starting in a few months. At first, I was hesitant—public speaking terrified me, and I was super shy growing up. But she said I didn’t have to teach afterward; I could just do it for the experience. So, I decided to give it a try. 

AM:
That’s a big step! How did the training go for you? 

KB:
It was life-changing. The training started in February 2017 and lasted eight months, with 200 hours of instruction. We met once a month on weekends and had one Wednesday evening session each month. It really kickstarted my spiritual journey. I started meditating, sharing my feelings in discussions, and eventually teaching yoga poses to others. 

About a month into the training, I got asked to teach yoga for a group fitness program called Camp Gladiator. The trainer offered to pay for my membership if I taught yoga once a month. My first class was at 5:30 AM outside a movie theater—I was so nervous! But everyone said I did great, and from then on, people kept asking me to teach. 

AM:
That’s amazing! Do you have a favorite style of yoga to teach? 

KB:
My go-to is Vinyasa style, but I’ve taught everything from restorative and gentle yoga to power yoga. I enjoy creating flows that connect breath with movement, and I like incorporating themes, music, and meditations. I’ve also taught yoga sculpt, which combines light weights with flow—it’s one of my favorites. 

I enjoy creating flows that connect breath with movement, and I like incorporating themes, music, and meditations.

Right now, I’m teaching a Pilates fusion class, which is different but fun. I use my yoga background to create movements and stay creative. 

AM:
Have you tried (or taught) yoga on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP)? 

KB:
Not yet, but I’d love to try! That sounds like such a fun challenge. 

AM:
We have a group coming to Costa Rica for a yoga SUP experience. It’s in a calm bay, and people love the unique challenge of balancing on the board while doing yoga. You should definitely try it if you get the chance! 

AM:
Have you always lived in the Tampa area? 

KB:
Yes, I was born and raised here—Clearwater, Palm Harbor, and now Tampa. I went to USF and stayed local, but I’d love to live in other states or even countries someday. 

AM:
Outside of yoga, what are some of your hobbies or passions? 

KB:
I love traveling—it’s been a big part of my life. My first trip was to Peru for a yoga retreat where I was an assistant. That experience inspired me to travel more and learn about different cultures. I’m also passionate about writing, especially poetry. Traveling inspires my writing, and I hope to publish a poetry book one day.  

Oh, and I also enjoy painting occasionally and staying active by working out and spending time outdoors. 

AM: How did you get into poetry? 

KB: I’ve been writing since I was a child. In second grade, I wrote and illustrated a story called Alyssa and the Horse, which my teacher shared with another class. In middle school, I submitted poems to a poetry book. After a breakup in my late twenties, I started writing again, and it felt like the words just poured out of me. I write about emotions, nature, and the universe. I even have a poetry Instagram account @writingsofthewildheart. 

AM:
What’s something interesting or unique about you? 

KB:
My roommate’s parents own a farm in Zolfo Springs, which we live right next to, so we foster animals sometimes. Right now, we’re fostering two puppies. 

AM:
Very cool! What breed of puppies are they? 

KB:
They’re mixed breeds—part pit bull, part dachshund, part miniature pinscher. They’re adorable but keeping them clean and flea-free can sometimes be a challenge. We’ll foster them until we find good homes, which can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. 

AM:
It sounds like you’ve become a puppy matchmaker on the side...

KB:
Yeah, I foster once a year or so! I love animals. Growing up, I wasn’t allowed to have pets, so fostering animals, and having my own dog now, feels like a dream come true. 

AM:
Back to yoga.😊If you were to design a workshop based on your expertise, what would it look like? 

KB:
I love to teach about Ayurveda. It’s a sister science to yoga and one of the oldest medicinal systems. I’d start with an introduction to its history and the concept of doshas. Then I’d give participants a quiz to help them understand their own doshic constitution. Ayurveda is so versatile—it can apply to self-care, diet, aromatherapy, and even teaching styles. It’s all about self-awareness and aligning with nature. 

Ayurveda is so versatile—it can apply to self-care, diet, aromatherapy, and even teaching styles. It’s all about self-awareness and aligning with nature. 

AM:
How might you make this workshop accessible to beginners? 

KB:
I’d keep things simple with relatable examples and focus on how Ayurveda can help with everyday life. Understanding the elements, basic body energies, and how to make small adjustments to routines is a great starting point. 

AM:
What are some tips or practices that someone out of balance could use to realign themselves? Practical advice that ties into Ayurvedic principles would be great. 

KB:
Sure. For a vata imbalance, the key is to slow down. Avoid rushing or multitasking. I’ve struggled with this myself. My vata has always been dominant, though I’ve improved over time. For example, I used to eat a lot of cold, dry foods like salads. Even when I included chicken or turkey, those are still cold, dry meats. That led to digestive issues. When I don’t get enough sleep or have too much caffeine, I’m all over the place. So, slowing down and resting is essential. 

Recently, I’ve had a cold, and it’s been hard to relax and not push myself to be productive. But listening to your body and allowing yourself to rest is important. Practices like staying off your phone, grounding in nature, taking deep breaths, and really feeling the earth can help. Eating nourishing, grounding foods instead of cold, dry ones is also key. 

For pitta types, the focus is on relaxation. Pittas are often very structured, so they need to invite more coolness and playfulness into their lives. Activities like swimming, dancing, or creative pursuits can help dispel heat. Eating cooling, hydrating foods like cucumber and watermelon is beneficial. Peppermint tea or cooling herbs can also be helpful. 

Kaphas, on the other hand, need to get their energy moving. Cardio, weightlifting, or any activity that gets them going is great. Sometimes they just need a little inspiration to start. Once they get going, they’re incredibly consistent. Spicy foods or high-energy music can provide the boost they need. Vigorous yoga practices can also be effective. 

AM:
Thanks for sharing those examples. It’s helpful to see how these principles can be applied to daily life. On another note, I’d love to hear about what you enjoy most about teaching. You mentioned being introverted and, at least at first, not loving to get in front of people. What draws you to teaching? And are there any influences—teachers, mentors, books, or resources—that have shaped your style? 

KB:
When I first started yoga, I watched Yoga with Adriene videos. That was back in 2013, and it really marked the beginning of my yoga journey. Sahara Rose has also been a big inspiration. She’s well-known in the wellness field and has done so much, from writing books to creating an institute for spiritual coaching. Her podcast has been a source of insight and clarity for me. 

My Ayurveda teacher, Denise O’ Dunn, has also been a huge influence. She’s like a fairy godmother—so wise, patient, and intelligent. I took her course before COVID and graduated in 2019. She taught us about Ayurveda, herbs, making ghee, formulating essential oil blends, and so much more. She also has a background in yoga, so she bridges the two beautifully. I hope to be like her when I’m her age. 

AM:
What do you enjoy most about teaching and working with students? 

KB:
I never thought I’d be teaching yoga, but it brings me so much joy and fulfillment. All of my teaching opportunities have come to me organically, which reassures me that I’m on the right path. I love creating playlists, designing meditations, and setting intentions for my classes. It’s rewarding to give students space for introspection and to help them connect with their minds and bodies in ways they wouldn’t otherwise. 

It’s rewarding to give students space for introspection and to help them connect with their minds and bodies in ways they wouldn’t otherwise. 

Teaching also helps me feel more confident in my voice and presence. I’ve taken a break recently because the studio where I taught closed, and I’m currently working on my 300-hour yoga accreditation. I wish I could teach alongside my studies to integrate what I’m learning. My main job now is in hospitality, which pays the bills but doesn’t fulfill me in the same way. Teaching gives me purpose and helps me feel like myself. 

AM:
Have your students taught you anything surprising over the years? 

KB:
Absolutely. I’ve had a wide range of students, from older adults to young boys and early-20s women doing Pilates. Their feedback has taught me to take criticism constructively, even though I’m a perfectionist and can be sensitive. Teaching has also helped me adapt to the needs of the class and think on my feet. Things don’t always go as planned, and that’s okay. I’ve learned to be less hard on myself and to embrace honesty and flow. 

AM:
You mentioned creating meditations for your classes. Do you have any recorded examples or resources you’d like to share? 

KB:
I don’t have any recorded meditations yet, but I am thinking of creating some. I usually guide students on imaginative journeys, often in nature, to help them tap into their inner energy. For example, one of my first meditations was about finding your spirit animal. During that meditation, I saw a grizzly bear, which became my spirit animal. I kept seeing bears everywhere afterward—on ads, license plates, and more. It was a fun and meaningful experience. I even have a bear tattoo now. 

I love Insight Timer as a meditation resource, so maybe, in the future, I will create some recordings on that platform. 

AM:
Is there a book—or resource you like—that delves into spirit animals? 

KB:
Yes, there’s a book called Animal Speak by Ted Andrews. It’s very detailed, covering the history, mythology, and personality traits of various animals. It even explains how groups or relationships can share a totem. For a while, I channeled spirit animals for zodiac seasons and shared their energy and themes on Instagram. It’s something I’ve been disconnected from lately, but I’d like to return to it. 

AM:
That’s a very unique perspective and I’d love to see more of what you create in this area. Are there any other books, podcasts, or resources you’d recommend? 

KB:
For podcasts, I recommend The Highest Self Podcast by Sahara Rose and Manifestation Babe by Kathrin Zenkina. For books, I enjoy poetry collections like Clarity and Connection by Yung Pueblo and works by Rupi Kaur, such as Milk and Honey, The Sun and Her Flowers, and Homebody. These inspire me, especially when it comes to writing. 

I don’t know if this would be considered an actual resource, but I also like to incorporate mood lighting into my living environment, especially my bedroom. 

AM:
Interesting. Maybe this is an overly granular question, but I’d like to hear more about how you incorporate lighting. What kind of ambient lights or lights do you like to use? 

KB:
It’s just LED lights around my room. They’re different colors, and I change them depending on my mood. I’ll do purple or blue, or if I’m reading, I’ll use a lighter color. I’ve read that red is the best before bed, so I try to use red before I go to sleep. I also have string lights above my bed—they’re like a warmer light. 

AM:
So, you’ll turn off the main lights in your room and then turn on the string lights with a color that matches your mood? 

KB:
Yeah, sometimes I’ll also use my Himalayan salt lamp, which gives off a nice, warm vibe. But nothing too bright when I’m winding down—purple or blue, and then maybe some red right before bed. I try to stay away from bright fluorescent lights and transition to darkness. 

AM:
It sounds like you know something about colors and mood. How might you match a color with a mood? 

KB:
Yeah, there’s color therapy as well. My favorite color has always been blue, which is associated with being calm and chill. My room has a peach color with an accent blue wall, and I’m very particular about my space. I want it to inspire me, relax me, and reflect my vibe. 

KB:
Red tends to correspond with passion or anger. Yellow is happiness and joy. Purple is associated with wisdom and royalty—it’s tied to the crown chakra. Green feels natural and connected to the heart space. That’s just my interpretation, though. 

AM:
Thanks for sharing! 

KB:
Oh, and colors also coordinate with the chakras. 

AM:
Looking back at your experience with yoga, is there any advice you’d give to someone new to yoga? Something they could do to take their experience to the next level? 

KB:
Just be consistent, but don’t beat yourself up over it. I’m hard on myself and need to work on that. Surround yourself with people who inspire and support your practice, and put yourself in uncomfortable situations. That’s where growth happens. 

Be consistent, but don’t beat yourself up. Surround yourself with people who inspire and support your practice, and put yourself in uncomfortable situations.

AM:
Speaking of uncomfortable situations, could you share an example of a setback you’ve faced and how you overcame it? 

KB:
Sure. Right now, I’ve been neglecting my personal yoga practice because of life responsibilities. I know it’s just a season, though, and I’ll come back to it. Our practices ebb and flow, and I’m trying to be patient with myself. I’ve also had issues with my left knee, so I’m mindful of that while still trying to move. 

AM:
Being patient with yourself is so key. 

KB:
Yeah. It’s hard, but necessary. 

AM:
What inspired you to start your 300-hour yoga program? 

KB:
I was feeling stagnant in my practice. I graduated from my 200-hour program in 2017 and started this training program in 2023. I’ve learned so much—meditation, anatomy, philosophy, restorative yoga, and more. The studio, Lotus Pond, is great, and I’ve loved the workshops. 

KB:
I’ve had meditation weekends, pranayama workshops, and even an Ayurveda weekend with Larissa Hall Carlson. I’m almost done with my hours—just 35 left!—and I’m looking forward to my final weekend, which will focus on the energetics of yin yoga. 

AM:
How is the training program structured? 

KB:
For the 300-hour program, everyone goes at their own pace. You have your required courses and electives. At the end of your last class, there’s a little graduation ceremony, and then you get your certificate. 

AM:
What belief, behavior, or habit has most improved your life in the last five years? 

KB:
Saying mantras to myself in the mirror and working on my confidence. It really changes my mood and energy. Also, listening to my body when it comes to food and being more mindful about what I eat. 

AM:
Is there a physical product you can’t live without? 

KB:
Chapstick! And I’ve been taking Shilajit, an Ayurvedic supplement, and Primal Queen, a beef organ supplement. Both have helped with my energy and hormones. 

AM:
What upcoming projects are you excited about? 

KB:
The Grounding in Desire Costa Rica retreat this summer is my big project. I’m excited to meet with the other teachers and bring this to life. I also want to leave hospitality this year and focus on either travel advising or yoga and Ayurveda. 

AM:
I’m excited to work with you on the retreat too! The venue, Bodhi Tree, is world-class, and it’s a great opportunity to connect with others and bring your followers to a special experience. 

KB:
I can’t wait! 

AM:
To wrap up things up: where’s the best place for people to learn more about what you do? 

KB: 
@sunshowers___ on Instagram, or my website: https://www.alignandflowalchemy.com/. 

AM:
Thanks, Kristen. Talk soon!