We’re excited to welcome Eileen Gulik, PT, DPT, E-RYT 500 to Tejas Yoga Chicago. Eileen will be covering classes for Jim Bennitt during his time away, September 24 through October 22, 2025.

With a rich background in yoga, pranayama, and physical therapy, Eileen blends tradition, science, and creativity into every class. Her teaching is rooted in both lineage and innovation, giving students an experience that goes beyond the physical postures.

Beyond the Physical: A Moving Meditation

Eileen describes her classes as a moving meditation. She hopes students leave not only with stronger bodies, but also with a deeper awareness of their inner state of being. Her goal is that every student walks out of class feeling energized, inspired, and more connected to their authentic self.

Breath as the Essence of Yoga

For Eileen, pranayama—the practice of breath awareness—is at the heart of yoga. She often begins class by observing the natural breath, then guides students through specific breath techniques that amplify the energetic benefits of the poses that follow.

“To me, advanced yoga isn’t about complicated poses. It’s about holding steady to a pranayama practice throughout movement. That’s where the magic happens.”

A Teacher Shaped by Lineage & Science

Eileen’s yoga journey began in Chicago with Jim Bennitt in 2005, and her path eventually led her to California, where she studied with Jean Mazzei. Discovering their shared connection to Rod Stryker and ultimately Pandit Rajmani Tigunait of the Himalayan Institute, she immersed herself in these teachings while continuing to expand her knowledge.

Later, her doctorate in physical therapy with a specialization in pelvic health introduced her to new movement modalities, including the work of Sarah Duvall and the Core Power Solutions team. The result is a teaching style that bridges the ancient and the modern - and always with the student’s well-being at the center.

A Personal Mantra Practice

In 2013, during a pilgrimage to India with the Himalayan Institute for the Kumbh Mela festival, Eileen received a personal mantra from Rolf Sovik, which she continues to meditate with daily. This ritual keeps her grounded and connected to tradition, while evolving alongside her personal growth.

A Few Surprises About Eileen

Eileen’s students might be surprised to learn she’s a passionate Swiftie! After watching Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour on TikTok, she dove deep into the fandom’s puzzles, Easter eggs, and connections—finding inspiration in Swift’s artistry and the creativity of her community.

Outside the studio, Eileen is also a musician. She plays piano, guitar, and sings, with a goal of learning every one of Taylor Swift’s 275 songs (she’s already mastered about 100!). This summer, she’s also discovered a love for kayaking along the Chicago River—though she admits she’ll be looking for a winter hobby soon.

Join Eileen’s Classes at Tejas Yoga

Whether you’re looking to deepen your breath practice, explore yoga lineage, strengthen your body, or simply experience the energy of moving meditation, Eileen brings her whole heart and expertise to the mat.

Come meet her while she’s here covering for Jim September 24 – October 22—and discover how pranayama, meditation, and mindful movement can transform your practice.

✨ Ready to practice with Eileen? Check the Tejas Yoga schedule and reserve your spot today.

Meet Eileen Gulik, PT, DPT, E-RYT 500 – New Instructor at Tejas Yoga