Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Klukas.
Hi Jessica, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born and raised in El Paso, Texas, and I proudly joined the Navy at 18, immediately after 9/11. After dedicating 20 years to service, I retired from the base in Millington, TN. While I had always enjoyed yoga, my true passion was endurance running. However, when I arrived in the Memphis area in 2017, I struggled to find the same vibrant running community I had experienced at every previous base, and that left me feeling isolated.
As I faced these challenges, I began to recognize the signs of depression that I had previously brushed aside. My husband recognized my struggle and gifted me a yoga pass for Mother’s Day, which turned out to be a transformational moment for me. Shortly after my retirement, I enrolled in yoga teacher training, where I connected with incredible individuals who inspired me.
I realized how profoundly yoga had helped me physically and emotionally during a difficult time, and I was determined to extend that opportunity to people in the Lakeland, Arlington, and Bartlett areas who might want a similar boost. That’s why I established my studio, Sol 2 Soul Yoga, located in The Lakeland Town Center.
My mission is clear: to cultivate a strong sense of community through challenging workouts. I am here to encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and embrace the discomfort, because that’s where true growth happens. You’re capable of so much more than you think!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road hasn’t always been smooth. There’s been doubt, fear, and moments of uncertainty. One of my biggest challenges has been showing people that yoga isn’t just slow and stretchy — it can be powerful, challenging, and transformative.
I also help my students understand that they don’t have to be good at everything right away. Growth takes time. Strength takes consistency. And confidence comes from showing up again and again.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Sol 2 Soul is proudly Veteran / Woman-Owned and operated. Our time in service exposed us to the struggles people face during conflict — both internal and external — inspiring us to create a space that makes a positive difference for all.
We embrace a “be comfortable with being uncomfortable” mindset. In a world where it’s easy to avoid challenges, we encourage people to meet them head-on — to sit with discomfort, breathe through it, and move past perceived limits.
Whether you’re someone who’s always on the move and finds stillness challenging, or someone who feels tested by heat and sweat, we offer practices designed to strengthen both body and mind. There is something here for everyone — and space for every kind of growth.
We have heated and unheated Vinyasa classes, as well as Hot Mat Pilates, Yoga Sculpt, Yin and Restorative classes.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
This is a great question. Mentors and networks change everything if you find the right ones. Here’s what I’ve always done when trying to find a “good mentor”:
* Don’t chase the biggest name — chase the right energy. Look for someone whose values and work ethic match yours. Ask yourself:
*Do they live the life I want?
*Do they run their business in a way I respect?
*Do they treat people well?
Skill matters, but character matters more.
*Before asking “Will you mentor me?”, build connection.
*Let it grow naturally. Mentorship works best when it’s mutual, not transactional.
*Be specific about what you want help with.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sol2soulyoga.com/
- Instagram: @sol2soulyogalakeland
