Welcome to Jasmine Alexa’s ‘This is me’ interview series. Can you please introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about what you do? My name is Jess Barber and in terms of what I do, I kind of live a double life! I am a qualified Nutritionist, completing my bachelor of Nutrition at Griffith University. I am also a producer at KJTILSE media, a creative production agency.

What do you love most about what you do? The diversity! Everyday is different, there is always something new to learn, a different problem to solve, a new project to organise or a new creative idea to brainstorm! I also love giving back through my work as a nutritionist and helping women achieve a state of balance in their health; whether that be physically or emotionally.

What do you find most challenging: Giving myself the big old permission slip to switch off from work mode and connect with myself and others.

Tell us about your health and wellness routine: My routine looks SO much different compared to even two years ago. My health and wellness routine now focuses a lot on my mind, the mental and emotional pillars of my health. So that looks like a 30 minute slow stretch with breath work in the morning, followed by the new addition of a 15 minute meditation. It also looks like checking in throughout the day and being aware of my thoughts and feelings. And in the evening… that routine is a work in progress!

What does self-care mean to you? Self care means checking in and being real with myself. How am I doing? If I am feeling great I believe it is important to acknowledge this feeling and feel grateful for it. If I am struggling, acknowledgement is also important so I can revert to the strategies I know will help me navigate through this time.

 Yes I also love a sauna, a beautiful massage and some beach time. But at the end of the day, sitting with myself, really understanding myself and doing the work to change things that aren't serving me, is the greatest act of self care I could ever do.

What is something you would tell your 16 year old self? You my dear, are whole as you are. You do not need to change your clothes or your body to be of value to the world. In fact, I encourage you don’t and instead focus on truly understanding yourself and becoming your own best friend. You are perfect just the way you are. You are strong, capable and you can handle anything.

What’s next for you, do you have anything exciting coming up that you want to share? Honestly not at the moment. I feel like I’m in a ‘season’ of internal reflection and keeping things pretty relaxed. In saying that, I don’t doubt there will be many exciting things to come in the future.