Yoga Patch's Featured Teacher!

Meet Jessica Taddeo!

What led you to become a yoga teacher?

Yoga helped me to feel in my body for the first time in my life!  As I started to take classes, I noticed I felt lighter, I would talk to people more, and I could connect to parts of my body that I disassociated from.  Yoga was also a very HARD practice for me as I was not flexible or strong. My body unwound layer by layer and the more subtle and energetic aspects of yoga became a part of my daily practice. I had never known the peace, ease, and healing that flooded throughout my body.  Needless to say, I became hooked. A friend of mine encouraged me to take a teacher training and here I am! 

What is your favorite posture and why?

I love any inversions because of how freeing and fun they are! My favorite is handstand because of the challenge and focus required.  My handstand practice began five years ago and I haven’t stopped since. 

What sets you apart from other teachers and why?

I would say my background as an occupational therapist sets me apart. I love incorporating functional movement and evidence based approaches for my students. 

Is yoga your full time job? If not, how do you incorporate yoga into your work life?

I work as an occupational therapist in an acute care/inpatient rehabilitation hospital. 

I have always been interested in human potential, anatomy, and healing. So, entering a career in rehabilitation came naturally for me. I use yoga to influence my work as an OT and I use OT to influence my work as a yoga instructor! 

Favorite healthy food?

Apples. I really do eat an apple a day. 

Favorite non healthy food? 

Pasta all the way. I could eat pasta for breakfast, lunch, and dinner! 

Current favorite song?

Anything by Shallou right now. I enjoy songs that are calming with a dreamy vibe. Specifically the song “...love” 

Guilty pleasure/indulgence?  

Dark chocolate! 

What's one thing most people don't know about you that would surprise them? 

I am a triplet :) No, we are not identical. I have a brother and a sister. Yes, we get along. 

They both live in Chicago. 

What's the bravest thing you ever had to do and how did you do it?

I moved to KC with $35 in my bank account with a close friend after I graduated from grad school. To be honest, my friend asked me if I would move in with her and I said yes! We just clicked and it felt right to move to a new city. I am originally from the suburbs of Chicago, but fell in love with KC’s unique vibe after being here for three months for a clinical rotation.  The first few months were unsettling and I missed my family, but my intuition kept me here and led me to teach at Yoga Patch!

What do you want to accomplish by this time next year? 

I am training to become a certified Yoga Therapist. I would love to start taking private clients and guiding them through the therapeutic yoga framework. Yoga has been so healing for me and I want to share its gifts with everyone. If everything is on track, I should be complete in a year or so!