About Us

• Jacqueline, her sister Emily, and their mother Tess have 48 years combined teaching experience. Tess began her practice in earnest in 1972, has taught many styles throughout the years and combines principles from all. Although raised in a "yoga" home, Jacqueline did not get serious about her Yoga practice until, as a stressed out stockbroker, recovering from an injury from a car accident, she began a consistent practice. She was so impressed by her amazing evolution back to health – physically, mentally, and emotionally – that she returned to school to devote herself to the study of the history and practice of Yoga and Ayurveda. (Ayurveda, from Sanskrit meaning "Knowledge of Life," is the oldest health model. It was introduced to the west by Dr. Deepak Chopra.) She graduated with a degree in Religion from Rutgers University. "Once you begin to learn the science of this ancient practice and see how it dovetails with Quantum Physics, you then understand that there is no mystery as to how yoga works. It is unbelievably empowering to feel like you have taken back some control of your own health," says Jacqueline. At the Bonita Springs Studio and Spa, there are more than 50 classes per week to suit any body, newcomer or experienced yogi! Together with additional daughter Emily Chiodo, also a graduate of Rutgers University, the Joyful Yoga leadership trio hopes to make yoga even more accessible to every body. In addition to the expanded schedule, Joyful Yoga & Spa has five massage therapists on staff offering eight of the very best of massage therapies available, as well as three Aestheticians providing a myriad of facials, peels, energy therapies, waxing, detoxification, electrolysis, permanent make-up and much more! "We are very excited about creating a wonderful place in the community, with informational workshops on all things mind-expanding and health-oriented, and by providing motivational speakers and guests that inform and educate. Joyful Yoga is truly a place to find wellness and joy."