We had the good fortune of connecting with Jasmine Canales and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jasmine, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
One of my favorite quotes ever is from Bob Marley “My heart is at ease knowing that what is meant for me will never miss me. and that which misses me was never meant for me.” Every time I feel any self doubt or anxiety about the future I remember that quote and it always helps me become grounded in the present moment. It’s a reminder that we all have our unique path and to just be grateful for what and who you are in that moment. I think that life has many phases and the experiences we go through shape our frame of mind. Sometimes we expect things to go a certain way and when it doesn’t it can be soul crushing and maybe even take you in a new direction. So, just remembering that it’s all part of the bigger plan for your life and to accept things we can’t control at times.
Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I come from a very musical family, as the youngest of seven, music was like another family member growing up. When I was little I played flute and sung in choir. I used to get home from school and record with my dad. I wrote my first song when I was four years old in my dads VW bus. I was always involved musically, and loved to perform. After my rebellious high school years I studied creative writing. Writing is what excites me the most. I love creating a song from thin air- from raw emotion in the moment or sometimes from saved journal entries, Writing and forming melodies is like therapy. I’ve had some challenges at times being painfully shy and self conscious, yet found a balance in performing because I love to sing and share my message. Sometimes I wish I could go back and take certain chances, and not put all my energy into my work (as an educator) even though it has been fulfilling, and instead to my creative side. Yet, I am finding certainty in that it’s never too late to believe in your vision, to keep going and most of all work on your craft. I have learned that we are not linear beings and can absolutely be multifaceted in all ways. I want the world to know that my music/art/teachings has and always will be about creating connection, and sharing a higher message that I hope touches even just one person in aiding the feelings of isolation or exclusion- we are truly never alone.
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 am a pretty simple person, and love nature, live music, and food! Long Beach is the best in all areas! I would have to take them to get coffee at rose parks because they have the best coconut milk lattes. Then we could either go for a walk/bike ride at Alamitos/Cherry Beach or a walk in San Pedro Peninsula. Breakfast at Wide eyed opened palms for their farmers market bowl- so yum OR if it’s the weekend we could get vegan craziness at Wild Chive.
There is always good live music at Dipiazzas and when things open back up of course Que sera (fight club Lbc).
Dinner at The Attic or Seabirds. I’m kind of a homebody so I like to party at home and dj with my partner, but if we did go out probably Alex’s bar..
Next day, we could go get massages at dee dee Thai spa on 2nd street and just relax on the bluff.
Perfection!
I love Bai plu Thai, blue bird sushi which has vegan options, The grain cafe (pozolè), and salud juice bar. If you want a good sunset point Signal Hill is a great place to watch it. I also love laying out at the bay and beaches are super close if it’s a nice hot day.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate this shoutout to the entire FIGHT CLUB LBC fam! Through this amazing platform I was able to share my love of music and perform with my closest friends (Via leaves and friends) and some of the greatest musicians of our time. It’s a space where you can come as you are and be a part of something- an energy, that makes you feel connected and seen. Throughout the past five or so years those jam nights were a huge highlight of my life and will forever be an inspiration for me to express myself through artistically.
Website: https://linktr.ee/JasmineCanales
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_jasminecanales_/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/earthangeljas
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jasmine.canales.39/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFtmE1_Sdxp1NlgvNq80dQg
Other: www.hummingbirdtribeyoga.com
Image Credits
Pics by George Evan (first 2 black and white) Pic by Steven (197 media) Closer image by Laura Winsgrove Fight 4L image by Max Wilt