We were lucky to catch up with Jessica Neideffer recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jessica, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
The boldest leap I ever took was leaving behind 45 years of life in San Jose, CA, daringly embarking on a cross-country move to Austin, TX. It wasn’t a rational decision; it was a call from within, a mysterious inner voice that whispered to me one morning out of the blue. Little did I know that this risk would be a defining moment of my life.
The COVID-19 pandemic turned existence into a relentless challenge, especially for those in the healing arts like myself, deemed “non-essential.” I had built a flourishing Sound Healing and Reiki Practice that was steadily growing until the lockdown struck. While I had some savings to sustain me initially, as time passed and restrictions persisted, it seemed like my livelihood would crumble. I contemplated returning to the high-tech world, but my entrepreneurial gap and business ownership made potential employers skeptical of hiring me.
Then, one fateful January morning in 2021, I awoke to my inner voice asking me to leave California. It wasn’t a conscious thought but an instinctual knowing, an indescribable feeling that the wheels were already in motion, and I had to quickly get on board.
Around a week later, I reached out to an acquaintance in Austin, seeking her assistance in exploring apartments. Despite the uncertainty, I found a flight for a mere $150 round trip in February (coincidentally during the infamous “snowpocalypse”). The following week, during a healing session with a friend, I shared the message I received. As the session concluded, she asked how I felt about going to Texas. In that moment, I knew I had to change my flight and leave that very weekend. And so, I did, three weeks ahead of schedule!
Over five days in Austin, I visited 15 apartments, feeling the pulse of each community. I applied at one complex. On the final evening, just as we pulled up to the airport terminal, a call came through from the property manager. I had been accepted for the apartment. The synchronicities of life never cease to amaze me. Doubt had no place in my mind; every fiber of my being resonated with the certainty that I was precisely where I was meant to be. With just enough time to sell most of my belongings, I embarked on an emotional roller coaster, driving eastward, eager to discover the Universe’s plan and what awaited me upon arrival.
In 2019, I began sharing sound healing and self-awareness workshops with incarcerated communities. When the lockdown disrupted facility visits, I shifted my focus to individuals reintegrating into society after incarceration. Yet, the inability to conduct group sessions posed a persistent challenge and when I felt called to leave, it felt right. Within two months of residing in Texas, I connected with a non-profit and gained access to my first prison in Austin, where I offered a transformative workshop. From there, my journey expanded organically, leading me to establish my own venture.
In August 2022, I proudly launched The Adara Collective, registering it with the state and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). Adara, derived from Sanskrit, signifies “Love,” embodying the essence I sought to infuse into my workshops. My intention was to remind individuals of their worth and that they are seen and heard. I yearned for them to realize that the power to effect change and seek what they desired already resided deep within. Sound healing meditations in these spaces not only nurtured the incarcerated individuals but also fostered a peaceful and serene environment for the facility staff.
Presently, I am the sole employee of The Adara Collective, conducting an average of eight workshops per week across three prisons, three alternative high schools, and two juvenile facilities. Simultaneously, I continue to serve private clients through my for-profit practice, Agada Energy Healing, and actively seek grants during my spare time. The joy and fulfillment I experience from sharing workshops with these specific communities are immeasurable. Looking ahead, I envision expanding the organization by hiring instructors to offer movement, meditation, and breathwork classes. Additionally, I am exploring the possibility of providing virtual sessions for individuals housed at the Travis County Correctional Facility. Currently, I am conducting two virtual sessions with officers and a weekly session with formerly incarcerated individuals. My dreams encompass the growth of this organization and the countless lives we will touch on this healing journey.
Jessica, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
In 2007, my life took an unexpected turn when I found myself grappling with severe symptoms of vertigo. Desperate for relief, I sought help from a chiropractor who worked his magic through adjustments and recommended massage therapy to further support my healing process. Little did I know that this recommendation would open the door to an extraordinary journey of self-discovery.
During one of my massages, the therapist proposed something I had never heard of before: 15 minutes of Reiki. Intrigued by the unknown, I decided to give it a try. As the therapist placed her hands on the different areas of my body, something truly remarkable occurred. I felt myself transcend my physical body and float above the massage table, an experience that was both astonishing and that filled me with awe.
From this elevated vantage point, I observed the therapist’s hands rest on my chest, and to my amazement, the scene below transformed into a black and white X-ray. In this ethereal vision, I could see my rib cage, and to my astonishment, I discovered a lock positioned over my heart. As my awareness of the lock grew, it shattered into pieces, and my rib cage swung open like grand barn doors. In that extraordinary moment, my heart soared out of my chest, and I returned to my physical body. But something had irrevocably shifted within me. In the depths of my mind’s eye, I witnessed my heart floating above me—a vibrant red cartoon heart with a big smile and angelic wings. And then, a man’s voice, distinct and clear, resonated through my being, declaring, “You are free!”
The voice startled me, as I realized that only the therapist and I were present in the room. Seeking clarification, I dared to ask what it truly meant to be free. In response, a torrent of memories flooded my mind, spanning from my childhood to that very moment. In each memory, I witnessed myself reaching out to the divine, placing my hands on areas of pain, and asking God or Jesus to alleviate my suffering. I had always yearned for those healing moments to be real, and now, the voice reassured me that they were. It revealed that this healing energy resided within me, urging me to embrace the practice of Reiki not only for my own healing but also to extend that healing to others on a profound, emotional, and even cellular level.
Although I had no concept of what this entailed, I felt an undeniable compulsion to incorporate this newfound practice into my life and share it with the world. The voice, which I recognized as my true voice, continued to guide me in pivotal moments, illuminating a path forward. Trusting this inner guidance, I wholeheartedly dedicated myself to following its lead.
After this profound awakening, I set my intentions to attract teachers into my life. As the saying goes, “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.” And so, many teachers did emerge, each playing a unique role in my journey of self-discovery. However, it took four more years for a pivotal teacher to enter my life, solidifying my commitment to this transformative path. I embraced this new chapter in my life with boundless enthusiasm, eagerly embracing the infinite possibilities that lay before me. As I absorbed and shared new knowledge, I marveled at the beautiful synchronicity unfolding in my life. Conversations with one person would lead me to another, introducing me to fresh perspectives and concepts. Opportunities for growth and expansion seemed to flow infinitely, whether through Reiki shares, Sound Healings, Native American sweat lodges, drum circles, or other transformative experiences.
Among these remarkable encounters, sound healing held a special place in my heart. It broadened my perception, unveiling the truth that humans are far more than mere physical beings—we are beings of frequency. This realization left me in a constant state of awe, embracing each day with an ever-growing sense of wonder.
The journey that began with symptoms of vertigo had taken me far beyond the confines of the physical realm. I discovered a world where healing and transformation extended to the realms of energy, spirit, and consciousness. Each step along the way, guided by my inner voice and the presence of inspiring teachers, illuminated new paths of growth, understanding, and connection. I eagerly anticipated the next chapter, the next adventure, and the next opportunity to share the extraordinary with others.
Today, the practice I share with my clients is a harmonious blend of Reiki, Sound Healing, Acupressure, Mindful Meditation, Intuition, and Self-Awareness techniques. I meet people where they are on their individual journeys, creating a space with them to explore and embrace something new, empowering them to grow into their best selfs. Through these modalities, individuals can experience themselves in a profound and transformative way. The journey of life is the process of remembering who we truly are, and as we become self-aware, we gain clarity on what aspects of ourselves we wish to change so we are able to evolve.
The healing sessions I offer incorporate all of these modalities, serving as powerful tools for profound transformation for those who consistently practice on their own and receive in session. As vibrational beings, it only makes sense to work with the fundamental elements of our existence—sound and vibration—combined with our intention and awareness. By delving deeper into our bodies and minds, we are able to recalibrate and find a sense of harmony and balance. As a facilitator, I guide participants on a journey into their subconscious patterns and thoughts, providing a safe and sacred space for exploration. After each session, participants receive feedback and guidance, offering new perspectives to consider and tools to support transformative change.
What sets my practice apart is the integration of all these modalities, my ability to meet individuals where they are on their unique paths, and the channel that I am as a facilitator. Since 2007, I have dedicated myself to studying and practicing these modalities, continually honing my skills and diving deeper into self-discovery with each person I support. The safe and sacred space we create together as a collective holds immense power, allowing all of us to move forward and release the fears that may be holding us back, enabling profound healing and alignment with the highest intentions.
While I cherish every experience I’ve had with clients, teachers, shamans, and students over the years, there is one aspect of my work that fills me with immense pride—the sessions I facilitate with incarcerated communities. There is nothing more satisfying to me than bringing crystal singing bowls and meditation techniques into prison facilities. Prisons, unfortunately, are not places of true rehabilitation; they often compound the existing trauma experienced by individuals. However, when I am granted the opportunity to show up in these spaces with the intention of sharing love and compassion—with both officers and incarcerated individuals—a palpable shift occurs in the environment as I walk through and greet everyone. The simple act of truly seeing someone and listening to them without judgment during our workshops is a profound experience that words cannot fully convey. The deep sense of joy and appreciation that is felt in those moments is what resonates with me most.
As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the extraordinary experiences I’ve had and the incredible people I’ve crossed paths with. Each encounter has enriched my life, broadened my understanding of being human, and deepened my connection to the world around me. I eagerly anticipate the continued growth, learning, and the opportunity to share our gifts with one another.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
Love, self-awareness, intuition, and humility—a powerful combination of tools that can transform our lives and the world around us. In the depths of our being, we all long to be loved, seen, accepted, and approved of. It is in these states of being that we find solace and strength, even amidst life’s challenges. By consciously choosing to embrace love and self-awareness, we unlock the potential to shift the energy of our physical environment and inspire others to do the same.
Imagine a world where kindness and compassion flow freely, where each person feels worthy of their dreams and desires. In this world, we uplift one another and nurture a collective belief that anything is possible. As we focus on our own aspirations and allow others the freedom to do the same, we create an energetic space that attracts aligned opportunities and experiences into our lives. We release the need for resistance, understanding that the fulfillment of our desires doesn’t diminish the possibilities for others. Instead, it opens a portal for the universe to manifest our deepest longings with effortless grace.
At the core of this transformative process lies the practice of self-love and compassion. When we extend kindness and understanding to ourselves, we radiate that same energy outward, creating a ripple effect that touches the lives of those around us. It is through this lens of love and acceptance that we can truly connect with others and foster a sense of unity and belonging. By embracing our own worthiness, we inspire others to recognize and embrace theirs, forging a bond that transcends differences and unites us in our shared humanity.
Self-awareness serves as our compass on this journey of personal and collective evolution. By cultivating a deep understanding of our thoughts, emotions, and patterns of behavior, we become conscious creators of our reality. We gain clarity on our desires, intentions, and the values that guide us. Through this heightened awareness, we can navigate life with purpose and intention, making choices that align with our highest good and the greater good of all.
Intuition, that inner whisper of wisdom, becomes our trusted guide as we navigate the twists and turns of life. It is the voice that nudges us in the right direction, urging us to take bold steps and make courageous choices. By honing our intuition, we tap into a wellspring of guidance and insight that transcends logic and reason. We learn to trust our inner knowing, even when it seems to defy conventional wisdom, and we embrace the magic and synchronicity that unfold when we follow its gentle guidance.
In the midst of our journey, it is essential to cultivate humility—a humble recognition of our place in the grand tapestry of existence. Humility allows us to acknowledge that we don’t have all the answers, that we are constantly learning and growing. It invites us to approach life with an open heart and an open mind, ready to receive the lessons and gifts that each moment brings. With humility, we release the need to control and surrender to the flow of life, trusting that the universe conspires in our favor when we align with our highest selves.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
In 2007, my conscious journey into the healing arts was ignited by two remarkable books: “You Can Heal Your Life” by Louise Hay and “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz. These transformative works opened my eyes to a new realm of self-discovery and personal growth. Over the years, I have also delved into the wisdom shared by esteemed individuals like Dr. Joe Dispenza, Brene Brown, Esther Hicks, and Eckhart Tolle, each offering their unique insights into the realm of self-love and self-awareness.
Louise Hay’s book resonated deeply with me, particularly a chapter that provided a comprehensive glossary linking physical symptoms to underlying emotional causes. It was a revelation, shedding light on the various ailments and discomforts I experienced throughout my life. The book’s perspectives and tools sparked my curiosity, urging me to delve deeper and understand the profound connection between our emotions and our physical well-being. It encouraged me to explore why and how we might unknowingly invite certain experiences into our lives.
“The Four Agreements” became a guiding compass for me, offering words to live by. It emphasizes the power of our words and the intentions behind them. When we are impeccable with our word, we speak kindly of ourselves and others, refraining from gossip, criticism, and judgment. Our words shape our personal reality (personality), so it is vital to choose words that reflect how we wish to be and how we wish to be seen. By not taking things personally, we liberate ourselves from the need to be defensive or offended. And by avoiding assumptions, we prevent the little voices in our heads from driving our beliefs and thoughts. Furthermore, when we consistently strive to do our best in every moment, we eliminate the need for self-doubt. Our best is dynamic, adapting to our health and capabilities, and remaining curious allows us to discern if there are alternative paths we could explore.
The authors and speakers I have followed throughout the years all share a common thread of self-love and self-awareness. They encourage us to embrace curiosity, to examine our beliefs, experiences, and communities, and to check in with our own energy and truths. This journey of self-discovery often leads us to realign our relationships and let go of connections that no longer serve us. It can be challenging to accept that some friendships may naturally dissolve as we evolve, making space for new connections that resonate with our current frequency.
These concepts have profoundly influenced how I navigate my relationships with the diverse individuals I encounter in my livelihood and within my circle of family and friends. They have provided me with valuable tools for managing and nurturing these connections, fostering understanding, empathy, and growth.
In embracing the wisdom shared by these remarkable individuals, I have discovered the transformative power of self-love and self-awareness. They have empowered me to question my beliefs, honor my truth, and create a life filled with meaningful connections and personal fulfillment. Through their teachings, I continue to embark on a journey of self-discovery, ever-evolving and embracing the beauty of each moment.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.agadaenergyhealing.com, www.adaracollective.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessneideffer/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.neideffer,
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-neideffer-3a545a4/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-u5-ocbHU20oeEHybwld8w
- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jess.sound.healing
Image Credits
Candace Smith, Adrien Le Biavant, TJJD