Kids and teens yoga with Teacher Joan Palisoc

“I realized one’s knowledge of proper breathing is powerful.” Joan started practicing Ashtanga yoga in 2010 just to learn a new form of exercise and immediately took to the practice. As she tried other forms of physical disciplines in triathlon and aquathlon races, Joan realized that it was also her daily practice of yoga and breath work that brought her to the finish line.

Her desire to go to the root and birthplace of yoga inspired her to go to India, where she explored other practices such as Hatha yoga and Vinyasa yoga. Studying with her teachers and getting her hands-on experience in teaching children with special needs, Joan became certified in Children’s Yoga and Yoga for Special Needs, specializing in Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Autism, and ADHD.

Joan has also been an instructor for private schools in Manila where she teaches music and movement, personality development, event management, and dramatics since 2009. Although teaching children has been her joy, it was her love for theater and acting that brought Joan to work in TV, films, and theater productions. After her yoga teacher training in India, Joan came back equipped to integrate acting, yoga, and meditation in her workshops.

To her delight, she helped her young students, who are professional actors, in their memory work, expression, and focus. Encouraged by these results, she was also happy to learn from the parents that some of the children practice meditation at home. She knew right then that she found her path and fulfillment.

On her free days, Joan indulges her mountain climbing, scubadiving, and travel hobbies.

“Teaching children is more tangible. They’re like sponges – you see the benefits right away. A little improvement is enough. Repetition is key.”