ODDlight Teacher Feature: Niki Saccareccia

It's no coincidence that One Down Dog's initials are ODD! We value all the unique, talented, and odd qualities that make our teachers so special, so we spotlight an instructor each month to let you get to know them a little more – and maybe try a class you haven't tried before! 

This month, we're putting the spotlight on Niki Saccareccia, who teaches asana and anatomy in our 300-hour teacher trainings and is leading a Yoga & Pain Workshop on Saturday, December 16th! This will be the first workshop of its kind, offering a breakout session diving deep into subjects beyond the mat for anyone interested in approaches to yoga therapy. If you've taken any of Niki's classes, then you have already experienced her wealth of knowledge and grounding, yet holistic vibe.

Get to know Niki more by finding her on the class schedule and reading below!

Hey, Niki! What's your sign? 

Taurus. I'm not into the zodiac, but if you are, then you know that's a pretty Taurus-y thing to state.

Tell us about yourself!

I love to laugh, and I love to learn. Being a student is one of my favorite things, and I'm passionate when I teach. My muse has always been the human condition; I studied psychology and the nature of consciousness in school, then went into Behavioral Therapy for a long time. I love how Yoga is a proto-psychology and connects the mental with the other dimensions of being alive in an eloquent way. I've written a few books, run my own business, and have been teaching since 2010... anyone who's really obsessed with their craft is immediately interesting to me and relatable, so feel free to share if you're up to something cool in your own right! 

Where are you from?

Central Florida via Long Island, NY.

What 5 words would your friends use to describe you?

Genuine, intelligent, hard working, considerate, and wise.

What's an ODD fact about you?

I've never dyed my hair and never plan to. 

What brings you to your mat?

The magnetic pull of self realization...an ache in my body...experimentation with a new idea, technique or song. 

What makes your classes unique?

I've heard consistently over my teaching career that my style is deeply grounding, and that I blend philosophy and practical science easily into the traditional class. 

What are your hobbies outside of the studio?

Travel and figuring out ways to travel more, watercolor painting, cooking, fitness. 

What's something you want everyone to know about you?

Apparently, a lot of people think I'm intimidating, but really I'm just super focused/task oriented, and I'm also pretty shy! I'm still learning how to come out of my shell in a lot of ways :) 

Do you have a favorite playlist or song you're currently vibing to?

This is such a loaded question! I easily have over 200 Spotify playlists for all the vibes, class styles, adventures and moods. I'm a proud self-proclaimed music snob. Some of my dearest students have made playlists for me as birthday or teacher appreciation day gifts, and it's super heartwarming, so it's tricky to narrow it down. Music is so soul-connecting! But if the bop "Bam Bam" by Sister Nancy is ever on, I'm vibing...and if "One Day" by Matisyahu is on, I'm dropped in deep. 

What Students are saying about Niki's classes:

"One of the best classes i’ve ever taken. Been going for years and it has really helped my posture!"

 

"Niki was informative, calming and challenged us in such a soft way—really enjoyed her class!"

"I always come out of this class having learned something and feeling great. Niki is a remarkably knowledgeable teacher!"