embodied leadership
+ Yoga Teaching Certification
200 / 300 hour omprehensive learning Pathways
A collaboration with
Jess LeBlanc, Sydney Starko + Laura Darcy
Welcome to the university of YOU –
the education you’ve always wished for,
needed and deserved.
Life has a way of fragmenting us, but Yoga puts us back together, enhancing every domain of your life.
From your relationships to your mental and physical health, this course recognizes you as a
WHOLE HUMAN.
If you can transform you, you can transform anything!
2025 registration open
starts feb 4th
All parts of you are welcome here.
Whoever you are, wherever you’ve come from – we care about who you are deeeeeep down and who you want to be moving forward into your chosen future.
As our pal Ram Dass said – we're all just walking each other home, and we’re here to guide and cheer you on every step of the way!
True Health Care + Leadership Starts Within
The most important skills today go beyond expertise—they’re about how we show up, lead, and connect with others. The ability to navigate difficult conversations with honesty and compassion, adapt with resilience in the face of uncertainty, and lead with authenticity and empathy will set leaders apart.
Embodied living is the foundation for cultivating these essential skills. By aligning mind, body, and spirit, we create a lasting foundation for health, well-being, and leadership. Through self-awareness, we gain the clarity needed to lead with intention, build resilience, and stay grounded in even the most challenging situations.
At the heart of true leadership is living with integrity, love, and kindness. These values create emotional resilience and deepen connections, empowering you to build authentic relationships and lead with compassion. It’s not just about individual success; it’s about cultivating communities where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to grow.
Our Yoga + Leadership Training is designed to help you embody these powerful qualities. Through a blend of eastern + western philosophy, science + spirit, you’ll cultivate inner strength, emotional regulation, and practical leadership tools that will empower you both personally and professionally. This training will deepen your connection to your purpose, enhance your leadership abilities, and create lasting growth.
Join us this February to build the skills and mindset that will define exceptional leadership in 2025 and beyond.
We have seen first hand how learning and living yoga has to power to elevate your life. You’ll spend less time worrying + stressing and more time doing the things you love with presence and true connection.
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Our mission is to seamlessly integrate Yoga into every facet of existence, from our homes to our relationships and workplaces. This journey is designed to integrate your mind-body awareness, increase harmony and promote fluidity, connection, belonging, and genuine purpose.
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We aim to inspired you to unearth and embody your gifts as a human and illuminate your bright light regardless of whether you want to teach a traditional yoga class or not. -
Our program is a life changing and transformative adventure. It is the opportunity you’ve been wanting where you can finally embrace all parts of your being are welcome and accepted. You will cultivate the resources and tools to help you thrive and live a life that is fully aligned with your deepest truth and self expression.
Through a trauma-informed lens, we start with the foundations—creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore who you are and how you connect with the world around you.
This journey is about you. It’s a deep dive into personal empowerment, the nervous system, psychology, the anatomy of the body, breathwork, meditation, and the rich history and philosophy of yoga—all approached through experiential and embodied education.
Think of it as "education of self" and a practice in becoming more of who you truly are. This training isn’t just about learning—it’s about feeling alive. It’s the kind of glimmer (the opposite of a trigger!) that brings you back to joy, safety, and alignment.
If you’ve been waiting for a sign, here it is.
Trust yourself.
Take the leap and step into this exciting new chapter of growth + self-discovery.
our teachings
We fill you up to the brim in the best of ways with fascinating knowledge and content through detailed videos, readings, workbooks, handouts, resources and lectures.
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ASANA
Learn and understand Yoga posture foundations and alignment principles to keep yourself and others safe + embodied
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methodology
Intelligent wholistic sequencing and effective cueing, demonstration, observation, assisting and feedback. A wide variety of breath, meditation and yogic styles.
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Leadership
Personal growth + development tools to help you in all areas of your life and teaching - communication, vision and goals, boundaries, clear limiting beliefs and unprocessed trauma + much more.
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anatomy
FINALLY learn about your whole body in a way that makes sense and can be applied in real situations. Gain a deeper understanding of the human body / internal landscape + our favourite friend the Nervous System
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HISTORY
Explore a smorgasbord of ancient yogic traditions, timelines of challenges and changes and modern day approaches
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PHILOSOPHY
Profound teachings of Yoga and sometimes complex theories of contemplative psychology and the vibrant tapestry of indigenous wisdom, we share insights that awaken, challenge, and inspire.
schedule + flow
module 1
ONLINE MODULE: 50 HOURS
February 4, 2025 - March 5, 2025
• 30 hours Anatomy - prerecorded work at your own pace video collection + live review / Q+A session
• 1.5 hour weekly x 5 - Yoga Class + weekly check in / community reflection
• 1.5 hour x 5 - Pranayama + Various Meditation styles - Tuesdays 7:30 - 9pm Mountain Time
• 1.5 hour weekly x 5 - Group discussion / connection call - Wednesdays 7:30 - 9pm Mountain Time
ALL ONLINE SESSIONS WILL BE RECORDED for your repeated watch or catch up should you miss!
module 2
ONLINE MODULE: 50 HOURS
March 11, 2025 - April 9, 2025
•15 hours Philosophy lectures - prerecorded work at your pace video collection
•1.5 hour weekly x 4 - Yoga Class + weekly check-in / community reflection
• 2-hour weekly x 4 - Group discussion/connection call - Tuesdays 7:00 - 9 pm Mountain Time
• 2-hour weekly x 5 - Methodology + Applied Knowledge - Wednesdays 7:00 - 9 pm Mountain Time
• 4 hour personal reflection + class preparation
•10 hours Embodied Purpose Self Leadership course (75min session x 8 Dates + times TBD)
ALL ONLINE SESSIONS WILL BE RECORDED for your repeated watch or catch-up should you miss!
module 3
100 HOUR EXPERIENTIAL coastal IMMERSION
UCLUELET, VANCOUVER ISLAND, BRITISH COLUMBIA
April 28, 2025 - May 7, 2025
Tranformational learning + experiential education adventures!
We come together for 10 days in the Pacific rainforest for surfing, hiking, community connection, self-study + practice.
We will begin at 9 am on April 28th and finish at 5pm on May 7th.
Please plan your travel days accordingly + note that the immersion includes all classroom time, and learning opportunities but does not include food, transportation, or accommodation.
module 4
LOOKING TO ADVANCE YOUR UNDERSTANDING OF YOGIc PRINCIPLES + embody the PRACTICES?
ONLINE MODULE: 100 HOURS
(in addition to our 200 hour training)
May 13th - july 2nd
FINAL PRESENTATION WEEKEND JUNE TBD
• 13 hours Prerecorded Guest Educator lecture series
• 2 hour weekly x 5 - Group discussion / Connection virtual live call - Tuesdays 7:00 - 9pm Mountain time
• 2 hour weekly x 5 - Methodology + Integrated Knowledge virtual live call - Wednesdays 7:00 - 9pm Mountain Time
• 14 hours ‘Purpose into Practice’ Advanced Self Leadership course - 1.5 hour bi weekly call - dates TBD
• 15 hours Small Group Practice Teaching + Feedback Implementation (Group directed times + dates)
• 30 SVADHYAYA Project - Spiritual study (own time) + Presentations in June presentation weekend
• 8 hour Personal Practice + Reflection
ALL ONLINE SESSIONS WILL BE RECORDED for your repeated watch or catch up should you miss!
MEET YOUR EDUCATORS
Jess LeBlanc, M.Ed., is the founder and creator of Embodied Living, established in 2013. A somatic practitioner, yoga teacher, trauma-informed coach, and leadership facilitator, Jess works with both individuals and corporations to foster personal growth, resilience, and transformative leadership. With over 1,000 hours of yoga training and certifications, alongside a master’s in experiential education, she is celebrated for her authenticity, innovative approach to wellness, and being named one of Canada’s top fitness instructors.
Through Embodied Living, Jess empowers people to break free from societal molds and embrace their fullest potential. She blends spirituality and science seamlessly, offering sustainable practices that honor each person’s innate wisdom and lived experience. Whether leading movement sessions, facilitating leadership workshops, or consulting with organizations, her goal is to leave people feeling lighter, more connected, and deeply empowered to thrive.
Sydney Starko is a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT), yogi, and lifelong explorer of the human experience. With over a decade of hands-on practice, she combines her deep knowledge of bio-psycho-social anatomy with a passion for fostering connection between the mind and body.
Sydney is known for crafting space—both literally, through her expert bodywork and movement practices, and metaphorically, by guiding others toward greater self-awareness and personal growth. Rooted in scientific inquiry yet open to the mysteries that transcend it, her work blends traditional wisdom with modern wellness philosophies from across the globe.
Driven by boundless curiosity and informed by her extensive training, research, and mentorship, Sydney’s mission is to inspire others to explore their own paths of discovery and healing. Through her thoughtful, integrative approach, she empowers individuals to uncover new dimensions of balance and vitality in their lives.
Laura Darcy is a 500-hour certified yoga teacher, artist, writer, and educator of The Journey Home, dedicated to guiding others through the intricate stories held within the body. With a trauma-informed approach, she integrates mindful movement, breathwork, and emotional exploration to create personalized experiences that promote self-discovery and a deep sense of belonging.
Laura’s passion for yoga began in her teenage years, where she discovered it as a powerful sanctuary for embodiment and emotional expression. Through her teachings, she fosters empowerment, helping individuals reconnect with their feeling bodies and tap into the wisdom of the emotional and energetic body.
Believing that the journey home is not a destination, but a profound reconnection to oneself, Laura creates safe and welcoming spaces where individuals can explore their full selves.
Leaders living off-the-mat
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'I was blown away by this course!'
The Embodied Living team’s ability to connect with people on a deeper level beyond their yoga practice is like nothing I have witnessed. They create an atmosphere in which people can be vulnerable and feel safe amongst their peers. This course has empowered me both personally and also given me a whole transferrable tool kit that I now use in my profession setting daily.
- ROCHELLE -
'An amazing team of educators'
Jess the founder of embodied living has done such a great job hand selecting her team and has collaborated with experts she trusts and values. They show so much compassion and love towards all of their students. It was an honour to take this course with my husband and it changed our world for the best. Forever grateful for the knowledge and skills I have learned and now embody.
- ANGIE
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'Forever grateful for this fulfilling and impactful experiencing'
It’s hard to put into words what the connections within Embodied Living’s yoga teacher training meant or were like exactly, I mean how can I find the words to do it justice?
Life changing. Love. Absolute genuine support, to the point that it has set a life standard + raised the bar on what friendship and connection can be.- FOREST
APPLY NOW
APPLY NOW
OUR CLASSROOM IS INTIMATE AND WE HOST A MAX OF 20 STUDENTS
200 Hour Education
— $4100 + GST
FULL 300-Hour Education
— $5900 + GST
EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT UNTIL December 1, 2025 — SAVE $500 OFF YOUR ENROLMENT
APPLY now below
grab YOUR SPOT!
The place, space and community to re- connect to the truest parts of yourself.
The time is now.
Frequently asked questions
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It’s been years of zoom and too much of it isn’t healthy for anyone. With this in mind we have balanced our course to have both prerecorded content that you are able to watch at your own pace and we have minimal (3-5 hours) weekly live sessions.
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YES! We get that things come up. We will be recording all online zoom sessions so that you can review or catch up should you have to miss.
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There are certain assignments / planning / reading /personal study that is required outside of course scheduling however, this is your experience and you will get out of it what you put in. With the exception of practical teaching methodology we will not be reviewing your homework or grading — it is your learning experience to be accountable for.
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Tapas - in yoga it means inner fire or zeal. In Spain, bitesize appetizer or snack! Our yoga education program is about sharing the variety of styles and methods of teaching yoga so that you can understand what best suits you as teacher.
You will NOT learn a scripted, canned yoga sequence or become a replica of another teacher. You will be empowered to embrace your unique gifts, style, offerings and voice. To show up authentically as yourself, because that is what the world needs. MORE YOU! By the end of the training you will feel confident to share and understand HOW to create using the teaching techniques and foundational methodology we provide.
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We think everyone who is interested in living life to it’s fullest and gaining the freedom to discover their purpose and passions. Some of our graduates are Students, Teachers, Entrepreneurs, Engineers, Parents, Nurses, Doctors, Accountants, Athletes, Weekend warriors, Health Care workers, EMTs, Human Resources, Tech Developers, Retirees, and even a former AirPlane mechanic! Anyone who is yoga Curious… or just plain curious is going to benefit from studying with us. description
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A certificate from Yoga Alliance is not essential for teaching yoga. While it may be common and heavily marketed, possessing an RYT certificate does not inherently guarantee knowledge, reliability, or trustworthiness, nor does it guarantee the quality of the training. Yoga Alliance registration can be beneficial in some aspects however, it does not currently any compliance check in with its registered programs to ensure they’re teaching what they say they teach nor does it provide you with liability insurance (which we will help you navigate in our business module)
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Instagram and other social media often present the idea that yoga teachers are mostly women in their 20s however, this training is truly inclusive and designed for anyone of any race, gender, age or season of life. If you are interested in growing as a human being and exploring the transformational power of the practice, we encourage you to join regardless of who you are, where you have been or what you’re currently up to. You belong.
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What does a good / perfect / advanced yogi even mean? We want YOU to join us as you are.
Of course there are no rules about how long you should practice yoga before becoming a yoga teacher.
A lot of people say “I’d love to do a yoga teacher training but I’m not flexible or strong enough”. As you learn in your training, while asana (posture) is key to yoga, meditation, breath and philosophy is also yoga. As long as you have a desire to learn, explore and progress in your practice, it does not matter that you’re feeling currently ‘limited’ in some asanas. All bodies are different, and this is highly respected in your training.
Get excited and be open to exploring the ways in which your yoga will deepen, change and evolve.
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We have a comprehensive list of books that you COULD purchase or download should you want to supplement the information we provide you in our course. These are all optional and suggested. Buy them all, some or none.
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We want to honour where you are at financially by working WITH you to develop a payment structure that is best suited to everyone’s needs. Please be in touch with us upon securing your space with a deposit to discuss options.
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Not even a bit. Yoga teacher training is the only course you might ever take that asks you about you. What are your hopes, dreams, goals, ethics, and plans? How do you want to live your life? Yoga offers a framework to help you ask some big questions about the world you live in. It offers tools and skills to help you show up in a more confident, responsive and peaceful way in your life.
Our students call it life changing + we couldn’t agree more.
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Excellent question and one quite dear to our hearts. While we at Embodied Living have the utmost respect for Yoga Alliance and its intention to create a standard of education for the yoga teacher profession, we do not currently believe their standards meet our own standards of teaching. Adherence to YA standards would mean our program would not be able to adapt and include relevant information and skills that we believe are crucial to your education as Yoga Teachers.
Ultimately, our stance reflects a commitment to authenticity, creativity, and independence in providing a holistic and enriching yoga education experience for our students.
Contact us.
Have questions before applying for the training? We're here to help! Don't hesitate to reach out to us for any clarifications or details you need to make an informed decision. Whether you’re curious about the program structure, what to expect, or how it aligns with your goals, we’re happy to assist. Contact us today, and we’ll be glad to guide you on your next step!