INTERVIEW WITH JESS LEBLANC

INTERVIEW WITH JESS LEBLANC



My wonderful photographer Sara Laking, based in Canada introduced me to Jess LeBlanc who modeled our last collection which is our very first knitted collection. I love to learn about people and we decided to do a mini interview together!


1- Can you start by telling us about yourself, where you come from, where you live and what's your work?
My name is Jess LeBlanc, and I reside on the rugged West Coast of Canada in the picturesque village of Ucluelet, British Columbia. I am an experiential Psychosocial Educator dedicated to cultivating self-awareness, emotional literacy, and resilience. My work focuses on stress and burnout prevention, enhancing nervous system health, fostering relationship building, and promoting conscious communication. As the founder of Embodied Living, I design transformative wellness experiences, innovative programming, and community care initiatives that empower individuals to honor their most purposeful selves and embrace tools for a meaningful life.


2. Could you explain to me what a resilient educator is? and with whom you're working with? (students, adults, couples?)
A resilient educator is someone who not only teaches resilience but also embodies it in their teaching methods and personal life. They help individuals develop the skills to adapt to and recover from stress, challenges, and adversity. Resilient educators focus on building emotional strength, mental agility, and healthy coping strategies, fostering a growth mindset and the ability to thrive despite difficulties.

As a resilient educator, I work with a diverse range of individuals, including students, adults, and couples. My goal is to provide them with the tools and techniques needed to enhance their connection and resilience, improve their emotional and mental well-being, and build stronger, more supportive relationships. Through my programs and initiatives, I aim to support their journey towards a more balanced, purposeful, and fulfilling life.

3. I see that you are practising yoga, do you incorporate it in your everyday life? How does it help you in life?

I live yoga beyond the mat by embracing its principles daily. I integrate mindfulness, compassion, and balance into my routine, fostering a deep connection with my inner self and the world around me. My practice extends to my interactions, where I promote kindness, presence, and holistic well-being. Through my teachings, I encourage others to find harmony in their lives, illustrating that yoga is a way of being, not just a physical exercise. Living the yoga helps me maintain inner peace and navigate life's challenges with grace. 



4. What keeps you grounded and inspired?

What keeps me grounded and inspired is staying connected to my core values and passions and witnessing others do the same. Nature is the most important thing that grounds me, with walks in the woods, on the beach with my dog, and time spent in quiet reflection.  Practicing mindfulness helps me stay present and centered, while my commitment to continuous learning and personal growth fuels my enthusiasm. Surrounding myself with a supportive community is essential. Being with like-minded individuals and engaging in activities that align with my purpose also play a crucial role in maintaining my sense of direction and motivation.





5. Does sustainability play a role in your life? 

Yes, sustainability plays a significant role in my life. I strive to make eco-conscious choices in my daily routine, from reducing waste and conserving energy to supporting sustainable products and practices. My connection with nature deeply influences my commitment to sustainability, as I recognize the importance of preserving our environment for future generations. This mindset extends to how I live, work, and engage with my community, aiming to foster a more harmonious and responsible relationship with the world around me.





6. What are you most excited for in the coming months?

What excites me for the next few months is diving into our upcoming yoga teacher training and embodied living courses, which I absolutely love teaching. The world is in desperate need of this transformative work, and I’m grateful to be at the forefront. Additionally, I’m thrilled about the opportunity to work with more organizations, consulting on ways to prioritize wellness and the health of their people. Connecting with like-minded individuals and supporting organizations in fostering a culture of well-being fills me with enthusiasm and anticipation for the positive changes ahead. I am also going to learn how to play the fiddle which is so far out of my comfort zone but will be medicine for my soul! 




Back to blog