We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jessica Diaz. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jessica below.

Jessica, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about how you went about setting up your own practice and if you have any advice for professionals who might be considering starting their own?

Starting my own barre fitness business over 10 years ago was an exhilarating and nerve-wracking experience, to say the least. At that time, there were no barre studios in my neighborhood, but I recognized the need and had a deep passion for this transformative fitness method. Looking back, I feel a great sense of pride for taking the leap and pursuing my entrepreneurial dream.

Despite my passion, I faced numerous self-limiting beliefs that almost held me back from starting my own business. Doubts and fears flooded in my mind, I questioned whether I had what it takes to succeed. However, my unwavering love for barre fitness propelled me forward, reminding me of the incredible impact it had on my own life. I am so thankful I did not listen to those doubts because after a decade of hard work I just won the Best of Boston 2023 award for Best Fitness Class.

With each step I took towards building my business, I pushed past those self-doubts and embraced the belief that my unique approach to barre fitness had the potential to touch and transform the lives of others. It was this unwavering faith in the method I was teaching and the transformative experience it offered that provided the guiding light on my entrepreneurial journey.

Launching my own barre fitness business was not without its challenges. From securing a suitable location to navigating the intricacies of marketing and business operations, every aspect required diligent effort and perseverance. However, my passion fueled my determination, and I remained committed to providing a space where individuals could discover the physical and mental benefits of barre fitness.

Reflecting on those early days, I am immensely proud of myself for taking the risk and following my heart. Through hard work, dedication, and a deep understanding of the impact of barre fitness, I was able to create a thriving community that embraced the method and experienced the transformative power it holds.

Starting my own business was not just about building a brand; it was about sharing my passion and creating a space where individuals could embark on their own wellness journeys. Witnessing the positive changes in my clients’ lives and the vibrant community that emerged around my studio has been incredibly rewarding.

While the journey of entrepreneurship is filled with ups and downs, the satisfaction of knowing that I have made a difference and provided a place for people to prioritize their health and well-being is immeasurable. I continue to be driven by my love for barre fitness and the desire to inspire others to embrace a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle.

If there’s one lesson I’ve learned from starting my own business, it’s that taking risks, following your passion, and overcoming self-limiting beliefs can lead to incredible personal and professional growth. I am grateful for the opportunity to have pursued my dreams and to have created a business that embodies my values and the transformative power of barre fitness.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My name is Jessica Diaz, and I am a multifaceted professional in the health and wellness industry. My journey began as a Barre fitness instructor and ACE certified personal trainer, specializing in nutrition and functional movement. However, my path took an unexpected turn when I experienced a stroke at the age of 36, which led me to reevaluate my approach to health and well-being.

This life-altering event became a catalyst for me to adopt a more balanced and holistic perspective on health. I realized the importance of embracing a sustainable approach that prioritizes long-term well-being over quick fixes. In my quest to offer comprehensive support to my clients, I expanded my skill set by becoming certified in sound healing and attaining master-level reiki expertise.

However, even with these certifications, I still felt that an integral component was missing from the health and wellness support I could provide. That missing piece was mindfulness. Recognizing the profound impact of mindfulness practices, I delved into breathwork and, more recently, became a Human Design Coach. This additional knowledge and training enable me to help individuals understand their unique mind-body connection and offer practical tools to enhance various aspects of their lives.

What sets me apart from others in the industry is my holistic approach to health and well-being. By combining my expertise in fitness, nutrition, functional movement, sound healing, reiki, breathwork, and Human Design coaching, I provide a comprehensive and personalized experience for my clients. I aim to address the physical, mental, and energetic aspects of wellness, creating a harmonious balance that supports long-lasting transformations.

I take immense pride in my ability to guide individuals on their journey towards optimal health and well-being. Witnessing the positive impact I have on my clients’ lives is truly rewarding. I am committed to empowering others to take charge of their health, make sustainable lifestyle changes, and cultivate a deep sense of self-awareness.

If you choose to work with me or follow my brand, I want you to know that you will receive a holistic and personalized approach to health and wellness. I am passionate about helping individuals achieve their goals and providing them with the tools and knowledge they need to live a fulfilling, vibrant, and balanced life. Together, we can create a transformative journey towards improved well-being and self-discovery.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

For me, a crucial aspect of succeeding in the health and wellness field was embracing a mindset of continuous growth and evolution. As a new instructor, I vividly remember the initial fear I had when it came to asking my barre class or private clients if they had any questions or if they were feeling the exercises in the intended muscles. The fear stemmed from the worry of not having all the answers, and it held me back from truly understanding how to better help my clients.

However, I soon realized that growth comes from embracing vulnerability and being open to feedback. It was through overcoming my fear and asking those questions that I began to gather valuable insights and constructive criticism. Even when I didn’t have an immediate answer, I made a commitment to my clients that I would either find the answer or provide them with a suggestion on where to seek it. This willingness to admit my limitations created an environment of trust and openness, allowing me to learn and adapt my methods to better serve my clients’ needs.

By being available for questions and receptive to feedback, I was able to fine-tune my approach and truly provide what my clients were seeking. Each question and interaction became an opportunity for growth, allowing me to expand my knowledge base, discover new techniques, and refine my teaching style.

Embracing a mindset of continuous learning and improvement is vital in an ever-evolving industry. It allows you to stay adaptable, integrate new research and developments, and remain relevant to the changing needs and preferences of your clients. The willingness to admit when you don’t have all the answers and the courage to seek knowledge and support are key drivers for personal and professional growth.

Remember, growth is a journey, and it’s okay to start with uncertainties. What matters is your commitment to learning, evolving, and providing the best possible support to your clients. By being brave enough to be vulnerable, you create a space for continuous improvement and, ultimately, exceptional results for those you serve.

Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?

If given the chance to go back in time, I would wholeheartedly choose the same profession and specialty without a moment of hesitation. My love affair with Barre fitness began in my early 20s when I serendipitously stumbled upon a barre studio while exploring my new neighborhood in San Francisco back in 2001. That experience completely changed my life.

Barre fitness connected me with my body in a way I had never felt before. It brought me a profound sense of connection, energy, and confidence. At that time, however, my perspective on health was heavily influenced by societal pressures, focusing on the number on the scale and fitting into a certain size of jeans. My definition of health was superficial and appearance-based.

However, everything changed when I experienced a stroke in 2013 at the age of 36. This unexpected health event made me realize the true importance of taking care of oneself and that age is not a determining factor in one’s vulnerability to health issues. It was a wake-up call that shattered my previous misconceptions.

The stroke served as a powerful catalyst, shifting my entire perspective on health and well-being. I embraced the profound truth behind the old adage that health is indeed our most valuable asset. I wholeheartedly committed myself to helping others move their bodies, not just for the sake of aesthetics or short-term results, but as a stepping stone towards long-term health and wellness.

Today, I feel incredibly fortunate and grateful for my restored health. The experience of having a stroke has deepened my understanding of the importance of self-care, self-awareness, and the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being. It has also ignited within me a passion to share my story and raise awareness, with the hope of preventing others from experiencing such a serious health event at too young an age.

Choosing the same profession and specialty allows me to combine my personal journey with my professional expertise. It enables me to empower individuals to prioritize their health, make informed choices, and embark on a sustainable wellness journey. I consider it a privilege to help others discover the true essence of health and guide them towards long-lasting well-being.

I am grateful for the path I have taken, as it has not only transformed my own life but also allows me to positively impact the lives of others. I am deeply passionate about my work and remain committed to supporting individuals in their pursuit of optimal health, well-being, and vitality.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.jessicadiazwellness.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicadiazwellness/
• Facebook: Jessica Diaz Wellness
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-diaz-3591814/

Image Credits
all Images by Lisa Richov photographer