Meet Samy Mattei | Occupational Therapist and Yoga Instructor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Samy Mattei and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Samy, what do you attribute your success to?
The most crucial factors behind my success, as well as the success of my “brand”, is a mix of a few key elements. Kindness forms the foundation of my approach, creating a positive and inclusive environment that fosters collaboration and connection. By actively engaging with others and bringing people together, I am able harness the collective power of diverse perspectives.

Collaboration is another vital component, as it enables the pooling of ideas, skills, and resources to achieve shared goals. Voicing my dreams to anyone who will listen has been instrumental in garnering support and building a community around shared aspirations. My open style of communication not only allows for feedback and improvement but also inspires others to contribute to a collective vision.

Aiming to find common ground with others has been a guiding principle in my interactions and aspirations. By seeking areas of agreement and understanding, I have been able to bridge diverse goals and forge meaningful connections. This approach not only strengthens relationships but also creates a sense of unity and purpose.

In essence, the success of my brand is deeply rooted in kindness, connecting with others, bringing people together, collaborating, voicing my dreams, and actively striving to find common ground. These elements collectively contribute to a positive and impactful journey towards shared objectives. In the wise words of M.S. Peck: “Share our similarities, celebrate our differences.”

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey as an Occupational Therapist (OT) and yoga teacher has been a unique and fulfilling odyssey, shaped by a blend of diverse experiences and a commitment to holistic health and well-being. It all began during my formative years when I worked as a camp counselor for individuals with disabilities. This early exposure ignited a deep love for working with this population, fostering empathy and a desire to make a meaningful impact on their lives.

My path took an unexpected turn when I discovered yoga, a practice that allowed me to explore embodiment and delve into the profound connection between the mind and body. Becoming a yoga instructor, I realized the transformative power of this ancient discipline. The turning point came when I specialized in adaptive yoga, recognizing the unique potential to merge my passion for yoga with my commitment to helping individuals with disabilities.

Many years later, during a yoga teacher training focused on teaching yoga to people with traumatic brain injuries, I stumbled upon OT. The fascination with neuro-recovery and the prospect of integrating my strengths and interests into a cohesive career path resonated deeply. It wasn’t a linear journey, but rather a process of discovery and adaptation.

I faced challenges along the way, but by leaning into my community, communicating my dreams, and taking incremental steps, I overcame obstacles. Life took me in unexpected directions, yet I remained driven by an inner resonant “YES” feeling that accompanies alignment.

The integration of OT and yoga sets me apart in both the medical and holistic fields. I take pride in offering a comprehensive approach to health and well-being, bridging the gap between conventional medical practices and holistic methodologies. What excites me the most is the opportunity to empower individuals to enhance their lives through the synergy of these two disciplines.

The lessons I’ve learned underscore the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the power of community. I want the world to know that my journey is a testament to the transformative potential of combining passion with purpose. My brand represents a commitment to holistic health and the belief that everyone can achieve their full potential with the right blend of evidenced-based, therapeutic and history-infused, holistic practices. My story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of aligning with one’s true purpose.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’d craft an itinerary that blends the vibrant cultural scene, delicious cuisine, and the breathtaking beauty of nature. Throughout the week, the emphasis would be on creating an experience that brings new adventures, providing and memorable experience for my best friend. Here’s a snapshot:

Day 1: Welcome brunch at Bodega, described as: “Part coffeehouse, part sandwich shop, part day-drinkers’ delight, this Sunnyside smash hit is above all more than the sum of its parts.” Say no more.

Day 2: Explore Town; Morning coffee at a trendy local café. Check out local thrift shops on South Broadway. Go to RiNo for popular food markets with diverse culinary options, check out Meow Wolf of other culture exhibits. Dinner on rooftop of Linger for a panoramic city view.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventure: Morning hike to Horsetooth Rock, yoga session in the natural surroundings, a picnic lunch in the midst of nature. Afternoon visit to a botanical gardens if there’s time? (So much room for activities!)

Day 4: Red Rocks Amphitheater: The most magical place on earth. Evening concert dancing and connecting through the power of music.

Day 5: Day Trip to a Nearby Town: Lunch at the local Ratio brewery or Draft House perhaps.

Day 6: Morning visit to a local cultural festival or event. Afternoon cooking class. Evening attend a live performance, whether it’s theater, music, or dance.

Day 7: Farewell Brunch and Departure: Conclude the trip with a leisurely brunch at a trendy brunch spot. Reflect on the week’s adventures and cherish the memories made. Departure, knowing that the week was filled with laughter, exploration, and unforgettable moments.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Shoutout to the incredible individuals who have played a pivotal role in shaping my journey and contributing to the person I am today. A heartfelt thank you to my former teachers whose guidance and support in both undergraduate and graduate school laid the foundation for my success as a dedicated professional and budding Occupational Therapist. Your mentorship and encouragement have been invaluable, and I am truly grateful for the impact you’ve had on my life.

A special acknowledgment goes to The River Yoga Studio, where I found not just a studio to practice and teach yoga, but a community that provided me with guidance, love, and unwavering belief in my visions. The support I received from the amazing people at The River has been instrumental in my growth, both personally and professionally.

And, of course, I can’t overlook the cheesy yet essential gratitude to my parents and little brother, whose love and encouragement have been a constant source of strength. To my incredible partner, thank you for holding space for my visions, keeping me grounded, and being a pillar of support. Your presence in my life is truly cherished.

There are countless others who have contributed to my story, and each one deserves credit and recognition. To all those who believed in me, offered guidance, and shared their love, I am profoundly thankful. Success is a collective journey, and I am fortunate to have had such an amazing support system on my path. Cheers to each one of you!

Website: www.yogamattei.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samy_ot_yogi/ (@samy_ot_yogi)

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samy-mattei-1a17b1233/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samy.mattei.7