Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacinda Soto
Hi Jacinda, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Ever since young I knew I had a story to tell & that I wanted to help others. Dance has been the love of my life since I was born. My parents enrolled me in dancing school at a very young age & ever since, I stood with it. Little did I know it was not going to be as easy as I thought.
I had arthritis since the age of 5. I was on medication for some time to be able to manage. I do not remember much but what I do remember is being in pain frequently because my knees were inflamed & being late for kindergarten all the time because my mother would run a warm bath for me to exercise my knees before school. Now that I am older I think back to many things & it makes more sense to me. Such as being more severely sick than other kids.
I was always involved in dance for many years, whether it was in a talent show, afterschool, dance team, or a competition, you name it.
In October 2016 my life changed. I had a really bad flare up that left me bedridden. I felt defeated because I was not able to do anything for myself. I had to quit my job, which I hated. There were many other changes in my life because of this flare up. I had to really re-think life. I then went on the journey of endless appointments, being on all these different medications. Dealing with acceptance, getting used to this new lifestyle & dealing with symptoms/side effects from the medication.
In 2018 I finally started to get answers. I got diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis & Still’s disease. This was still new to me. Emotionally & mentally this experience felt exhausting. There was so much happening all at once. I had no idea what to do or think at times. I had no idea what will be next or in store for me.
After going through some time of being in the hospital & all that comes with being chronically ill, I implemented Self Love & Self Care to be crucial in my life. This has been a huge help in keeping me on track with mindfulness. I continue to keep building strength for myself to be able to accept this part of me.
When Covid / the pandemic became a thing, I was spending so much time with myself at home & had the chance to dig deep. I then created my alter ego ‘Virgo Beauty.’ I gave dance another chance because after 2016 I couldn’t keep up with dance as much as before when I was younger. I was hosting my own classes & projects. This led to networking & meeting more people which then became friendships & relationships. I was very happy with the positive outcome. I stood doing this even with my condition. I believed in myself & took that leap of faith. I incorporated self love & mindfulness in my classes and projects.
Along with dance, I incorporated to advocate for myself & others. Fear definitely became a thing, especially if you are not “normal”. I have been blessed to be able to get opportunities regarding to dance & even advocating.
I hope to share my story & be able to help others. I want to be able to prove that even with a chronic condition that you can make your dreams come true. That you can find peace & happiness in life.
With pain comes strength.
With love,
Jacinda AKA Virgo
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
On this journey, it has not been a smooth road. I definitely have came across difficult decision making. Some struggles along the way were regarding to my health & mental health. It was a battle that left me feeling exhausted at times. Being chronically ill is not easy. Everyday tasks became challenging, especially on the really bad days. Having a job, & being prepared of knowing how I would feel as days go on were difficult. My thoughts would get the best of me. I have learned how to deal with these situations in the best way possible for me. Incorporating affirmations & other positive aspects in my life daily has helped.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I started Virgo Beauty in 2020, Covid started it all. I was home & was able to really reflect. At the time I took the leap of faith & took it upon myself to believe in myself. I am a Dancer, Choreographer, Creative Director & Advocate. I specialize in beginners choreography that includes various styles. I am known for being very welcoming, understanding, incorporating mindfulness, & SelfLove in my work. I am most proud of starting Virgo Beauty because without it I would not have met all the amazing souls that i have connected with over the years. What sets me apart from others is that there is only one me & nobody else can duplicate that. That is what makes each person unique.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I love meeting new people & networking. If you’re interested in working together, collaborating or even just to support. You can find me on Instagram, YouTube, & even TikTok. Simply a reach out through direct message would be greatly appreciated especially if you’re in the New York City area.
Instagram: @virgobeautyxo
YouTube: Virgo Beauty
TikTok: virgobeautyxo
Pricing:
- Classes: $20 per person (Sometimes I do free classes or lower prices)
- Privates: Prices Vary
- Other services: Prices Vary
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sites.google.com/view/dancewithvirgo/home
- Instagram: https://youtube.com/@virgobeauty?si=Y2Hn2MEI8hxbsmxm
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@virgobeauty?si=Y2Hn2MEI8hxbsmxm
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@virgobeautyxo?_t=8p56zEROkjW&_r=1
Image Credits
Artekai Productions by Phoenix Rosary