From France to Phoenix: Céline Baudouy’s Transformative Journey Through Yoga and Intuition

An Interview with Céline Baudouy, the Founder of Ekam Yoga Studio

1. Céline can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Before yoga became such a big part of your life, what were you doing?

   
   

   Before yoga became such a vital part of my life, I worked in the cultural sector, primarily with theaters and dance companies, where I held various roles in public relations and communications. I cherished being connected to the performing arts world—the creativity, the energy—but I often found myself craving more balance and a deeper space to reconnect with myself. I’ve lived in Nantes, Marseille, and Montreal—each place shaping me in its own way. I studied literature and communication, which helped me develop a deep appreciation for language, expression, and human connection. These experiences have enriched my personal and professional journey.

   Yoga entered my life like a breath of fresh air. It offered me not only a way to move my body but also a powerful means to quiet my mind and cultivate presence. What began as a personal refuge gradually blossomed into a true passion, inspiring me to change direction and fully dedicate myself to sharing yoga with others.

   Today, yoga is at the very heart of all that I do, and I am deeply grateful for the journey that has brought me here.

   
   

2. How did your journey with yoga start and what drew you to the practice of Ashtanga specifically?

   
   

   My journey with yoga actually started in Canada. I was taking dance classes at the time, and the teacher would begin every class with a short yoga warm-up. It immediately caught my attention because it was so different from the usual kind of warm-up—there was breath, intention, and this sense of moving with awareness. It really stuck with me.
   

   Later on, when I was living in Marseille, a friend told me about something called Ashtanga Yoga. I remember thinking, “What a strange name!” But I’m super curious by nature—like a cat—so I decided to try it. And honestly, it was a revelation.
   

   First, the teacher—Vanessa—she had this calm strength that really inspired me. And then the practice itself... it was structured, methodical, and really challenging, both physically and mentally. At the time, I was kind of a whirlwind of energy, and here was something that grounded me, something that asked me to slow down, focus, and stay with it.

   That’s really where my journey began—and I remember thinking, this feels like something that will stay with me forever.

   
   

3. What inspired your move from France to Phoenix? Was it a life decision or something that unfolded unexpectedly?

   
   

   That question touches something very personal. I had already left France once to live in Canada, and that experience was a revelation—just like discovering Ashtanga yoga. I loved living abroad, and I’ve always been open to life unfolding in unexpected ways.
   

   My move to Phoenix was deeply tied to a turning point in my life: I found my biological father after years of uncertainty. I had always felt something wasn’t quite right in the family I grew up with, and at 40, I finally followed my intuition and found him. He was living in Phoenix.
   

   It was like something out of a movie. I had already planned a road trip through the American Southwest for my 40th birthday with my son and my partner, and we met for the first time in Sedona. It felt like finding a soulmate. I started going back and forth between Nantes and Phoenix, but after ten years, I was tired. My son was old enough to decide, and when he agreed to move, we made it happen.
   

   That’s when everything shifted—from reconnecting with my past to creating something for my future. Starting the studio here wasn’t just about being close to family—it was about stepping fully into my path.
   

4. How did Ekam Yoga Studio come to life? Is there any particular meaning behind this name? 

   
   

   Ekam Yoga Studio was born from a deep desire to create a space that feels both grounding and uplifting—a place where people can pause, explore, connect, and truly feel at home. I wanted to offer a space that supports not just physical practice, but personal transformation—a kind of sanctuary where body, mind, and heart come together.
   

   The name Ekam came to me very clearly. I loved its sound—both modern and rooted in Sanskrit—and its meaning is essential to the spirit of the studio. Ekam means “one” or “unity.” It speaks to the spiritual dimension of yoga, the idea that through asana, pranayama, and meditation, we can reconnect with that inner sense of oneness.
   

   More than anything, I want Ekam to be a place where people can recharge, reflect, and move forward on their path. A place of listening, guidance, growth, and community. A place where they can simply be—and feel whole.

   
   

5. Can you tell us a bit about your teaching style? What makes your approach to Ashtanga unique or personal?

   
   

   My teaching style is rooted in presence, precision, and care. I aim to create a space where each student feels supported, seen, and encouraged to grow at their own rhythm. As some of my students have shared, I place great importance on adapting the practice to meet each person where they are—whether they’re just beginning or have years of experience.
   

   What makes my approach to Ashtanga personal is this balance between structure sensitivity and intuition. I stick to the method, but I guide in a way that honors each person. I pay close attention to detail and use hands-on adjustments thoughtfully, helping students refine their practice with both grace and clarity.
   

   I see myself as a guide—the student is always the master of their own body and practice. I’m here close to them like a pathfinder but each person walks it in their own way, at their own pace.

   
   

6. For someone walking into your studio for the first time, what do you hope they feel or experience?

   
   

   I hope they feel an immediate sense of calm, curiosity, and belonging. I want the space to feel like a pause from the outside world—a place where they can reconnect with themselves, without pressure or expectation.
   

   Whether it’s their first yoga class or their hundredth, my wish is that they feel seen, respected, and gently guided. It’s not about performance or perfection—it’s about presence, exploration, and feeling at home in your own body and mind. If there’s one thing I hope students take with them, it’s the feeling of being truly supported on their path—whether they come for strength, clarity, healing, or simply to breathe.

   
   

7. What kinds of classes and experiences do you currently offer at Ekam Yoga Studio - and are there any special programs or events people should know about?

   
   

   At Ekam Yoga Studio, we offer a range of classes designed to meet students wherever they are in their practice—whether they’re just starting out or looking to deepen their journey.

   Ashtanga Yoga is at the heart of everything we do—it’s the DNA of the studio. We offer Mysore-style classes, where students receive personalized, one-on-one guidance in a self-paced format, as well as Led Primary Series, Ashtanga Foundation classes, and Ashtanga & Strength, which blends traditional practice with a functional and athletic approach.
   

   In addition to Ashtanga, we offer complementary classes like Hatha, Flow, Yin Yoga, and our signature YogiWalkie — a mindful walking practice that brings movement, breath, and nature together.
   

   We will host thematic workshops that dive deeper into specific areas of practice—whether it’s posture technique, breathwork, or mindfulness.
   

   Looking ahead, we’re preparing a teacher training program focused on hands-on adjustments and the psychology of teaching, especially for those drawn to Ashtanga Yoga.

   Everything we offer at Ekam is connected by a common thread: creating a supportive, inclusive space where people can explore, grow, and reconnect with themselves—on and off the mat.

   
   

8. As a business owner who recently moved from France, what are some of the biggest differences you have noticed between life and work in the U.S. and in France?

   
   

   One of the biggest differences I’ve noticed since moving from France is the rhythm of life. In France, everything is organized around school vacations—there’s a natural flow with breaks built in. Here, there are no real pauses. It’s go-go-go all year long! Even in yoga.
   

   I also thought Ashtanga would be more popular—it’s not as well-known here as I expected. So part of my work has been to gently introduce people to the practice without making it feel intimidating.
   

   Culturally, people in the U.S. are super friendly and positive—which I love—but I’ve learned that friendliness doesn’t always mean connection. In France, we’re a bit slower to warm up, but when we connect, it usually runs deep.
   

   Oh, and one more thing: I deeply, deeply miss French food. It’s a cliché, I know!

   
   

9. Looking ahead, what are your hopes or next steps for Ekam Yoga Studio and for yourself personally - any future projects, expansions, or dreams you are nurturing?

   
   

   Looking ahead, my main goal is to keep building a strong community of yogis at Ekam—people who feel supported, inspired, and connected.
   

   I’m currently working on launching a Teacher Training focused on adjustments and the emotional side of teaching, and I’d love to organize yoga retreats and create bridges with my studio back in France.
   

   And who knows—maybe one day, open another studio surrounded by nature. That’s definitely part of my dream.

   
   

10. How can people find Ekam Yoga Studio?

    Address: 1219 E Glendale Ave, Phoenix, AZ 8502

    Website: ekamyoga-phoenix.com

    Instagram: @ekamyogaphoenix

    Facebook: Ekam Yoga Studio

    
    

11. New students can enjoy 50% off their first month of classes.

    
    

Céline’s story is a beautiful reminder that life’s most meaningful transformations often begin when we trust our inner voice. Through Ekam Yoga Studio, she’s not just offering a space to practice yoga—she’s created a haven for presence, connection, and growth.

The Rocky Mountain French-American Chamber of Commerce is proud to count Céline among its vibrant network of entrepreneurs and cultural connectors. We look forward to witnessing her continued impact—on both sides of the Atlantic.

For additional information, please see below:

Céline Baudouy

Ekam Yoga Studio

Address: 1219 E Glendale Ave, Phoenix, AZ 8502

Website: ekamyoga-phoenix.com

Instagram: @ekamyogaphoenix

Facebook: Ekam Yoga Studio