Testimonials
“J is the best yoga instructor ever! She is very knowledgeable and patient. Making accommodations, for yogis, is J’s super power. Her indoor studio is cozy and peaceful. During warm weather, J offers classes at a boat house next to the river. Practicing with J has made me feel more peaceful and stronger. I highly recommend to yogis of all levels.”
Diane Murray
“I have been a yoga student at Ingleside for about seven years. As a 27-year yoga practitioner, I am VERY picky about my yoga classes. J’s classes are among the best that I’ve ever attended. She is simply a great teacher: compassionate and highly skilled therapeutically. She accommodates students with a wide range of experience and limitations. She deeply honors the mind-body-spirit connection. One of the best attributes is that the classes are truly judgment-free and not at all competitive.” Gail A.
“J is a wonderful healer. She is more than just a yoga teacher, she imparts wisdom and encouragement as part of each class. She is helping me heal from an old shoulder and hip injury while becoming stronger and more flexible. I highly recommend her yoga classes.”
Anne H.
“I began taking yoga classes with J Vecchia at Ingleside Therapeutic Massage and Yoga ten years ago. From the very first class, I knew her classes would be beneficial and that it was a yoga practice I would continue. Here I am ten years later, still taking classes, and I was right. The classes have been most beneficial to me. J’s subject knowledge and gentle teaching style make each class informative, inspirational and enjoyable. Each class includes, in addition to yoga, guided breath and meditation exercises, providing a complete package for self-care. My medical status has changed in recent years, but J has continued to accommodate me as she does with all her students, individualizing each lesson for my success and for the success of each of her students. These days, I choose to participate in J’s live classes through Zoom, but J also offers classes in person. Either way, I have found satisfaction. I can’t say enough good about Ingleside Yoga classes and about J as an instructor.”
Jackie D’Agostino
“Have you ever been curious about yoga, but never followed through on your promise to yourself to try something different this year? If so, no need to look any further than Ingleside Yoga located in Holyoke, Ma. The setting is spectacular, for during good weather we practice on a deck overlooking the majestic Connecticut River. During the cooler months and at times of inclement weather, we take the class to an intimate studio located just a quarter mile away. The instructor is Janet Vecchia, known to all as “J,” who will gently and knowingly guide you through the physical poses of yoga while making sure to address any physical limitations you may have due to injury or past surgeries. After talking to J for a few moments, you will feel as if you have known her for a much longer time, as she will put you completely at ease with regards to yoga. Classes are small, typically between 4-8 students at any one time, which ensures you will have a much closer relationship with J, as she observes all students and makes sure that all are comfortable with the class. An added benefit is that all mats, belts, blankets, and props are provided to each student as part of the practice. Most important is the realization that along with the physical part of yoga, the inclusion of the mental outlook is sometimes even more beneficial for the class. Together the body and mind evolve into an experience that will not only improve your physical alignment and sense of well-being, but will also increase your mental attitude and outlook in a most positive and invigorating way. I will be 70 years old next month and I started yoga with J seven years ago at the age of 63. There are no limitations.”
Bob Marshall
“Walking into J and John’s studio is like walking into an old friend’s home. I have always, even from day one, felt the welcoming, warm, and sincere environment they have built together. If you’ve never tried yoga (or massage) before THIS is the place to go! J has created a supportive and relaxed atmosphere that is adaptable to all levels of yoga – there is no ego here. J playfully blends the physical and spiritual practice of yoga together in a way that is relatable to all folks, no matter your personal religion or politics. I can’t say enough amazing things about Ingleside Yoga that has so graciously created a spot in my weekly routine.”
Jessica M.
“Practicing yoga with J, I walk out a better person. With over 20 years doing yoga, the past five with J, I can attest that what endears me to J as a yogi and teacher is her classes’ interweaving the yoga good for my body with the spiritual coaching good for my soul, making my Saturday mornings with her like trans-denominational church: unique among so many modern yoga classes that have become purely physical. Too, I appreciate J’s sagacity. In a valley replete with yoga teachers, many young, this lady’s been around: she’s a retired civil rights lawyer, a highly-trained yogi, an experienced mom, a survivor of tough times, and an adventurer of the heart. She has much wisdom and expertise to share for those ready for more than your typical yoga class.”
Jenn Dorfield
“I have been a student of J’s for approximately a year and half. Prior to that time, I had taken a few yoga classes. J is an excellent instructor as she is always patient and helpful. The classes are a perfect balance of contemplation and physical challenges. J always makes a point to guide her students to insure proper alignment and also encourages a steady progression to new, different and more difficult poses. Each class starts with meditation to let go of your day and J imparts a theme for reflection while practicing and for you to take with you off the mat. My days can be extremely hectic and stressful, so having an opportunity to simply sit and be mindful of my breathing at the beginning and end of a yoga class is particularly rewarding. Having also exercised, I am appreciative of the work-out that has truly benefited the mind, body and spirit.”
JR
“I have been a weekly student of J’s since April 2009. J is an amazing teacher and truly dedicated to the spirit of yoga. She is transcendental, inspiring and centered. As a yoga teacher, J is energetic, sensitive and fully present to all her students. I enjoy the weekly themes and particularly liked the class on “atonement/making amends/reconciliation” that she did last year. J’s alignment instructions have taken me to a higher level in my practice. Her classes are challenging, refreshing and fun! After each class, I feel physically cleansed and spiritually awakened.”
JS
“I am a relative newcomer to Yoga. J understands my physical limitations, makes accommodations and focuses on what I CAN do and not what I CAN’T DO. Yoga fits nicely with my overall exercise plan. I am glad that I tried it and even happier that I am staying with it.”
MCT
“I have been taking J’s classes for about a year. I look forward to practicing each week because she invites her students to reflect on the challenges and joys of life both on and off the mat. Her classes maintain a balance of spirituality, fun, and individualized physical challenge.”
Lauren L-H
“Yoga classes with J have been an enriching experience in my life. J is an inspirational yoga teacher who takes an interest in her students both on and off the mat. Her teachings fully embody all the aspects of yoga – physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual, offering opportunities for growth in each of these areas. Having said that, classes never seem like a chore. Instead, classes are most enjoyable and I always look forward to them.”
JD
“J ‘s teaching incorporates such a high level of detail, that I learn something new about a pose in every class. I have also learned how to do each pose in the way it was intended, which has increased my strength and flexibility. But in addition to the challenges of the physical practice, I leave her classes feeling less stressed and more blessed, as she has a way of realigning one’s mind and heart.”
Laura W.
“I have been enjoying J’s classes for almost eight years. As a yoga teacher, J is enlightened and encourages us to be nurturing and expansive to our bodies and souls. J’s weekly themes are inspirational, thought-provoking and helps me to focus on the now. Her teaching is inspiring and the yoga classes are fun and a great workout! I like the collegiality and healthfulness of J’s approach as a teacher. After each class, I feel cleansed.”
David T.
