ABOUT US
HEY THERE!
Welcome to Essence Movement Studio.
We combine different modalities of movement and healing from Breathe work, Sensual embodiment, Heels classes, Hip hop, Body love classes, Energy work and more, to really assist women along their journey to self love and pure badassery!
Explore Your Essence
ESSENCE MOVEMENT STUDIO WAS BORN FROM A DESIRE TO BE OF FULL SERVICE TO MY COMMUNITY
It was created to help women through their journey to radical self love and self acceptance, while providing a community of sisters who genuinely and authentically support one another.
We strive to create a safe, supportive and judgement free space for women to come together to explore their sensuality and feel empowered in their bodies
Hear from the founder, Jess Saunders
OUR MISSION
Helping women master the art of radical self love through intentional movement, sisterhood and authentic self-expression. We strive to create a safe, supportive and judgement free space for women to come together to explore their sensuality and feel empowered in their bodies.Support, Community & Connection
Respect, Non-judgemental & no bullying policy
Surrender, Openness, Vulnerability
Boldness, Self Expression, Showing up for yourself
JOIN OUR SISTERHOOD
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JOIN OUR SISTERHOOD -
OUR TEACHERS
JESSICA SAUNDERS
Renee stewart
NATASHA WASHINGTON
Natalia Slowikowski
Mia Kennedy-Eade
ABOUT THE FOUNDER
Helping master the art of radical self love through intentional movement
As a mom of 4 young children and still following my dreams, I decided that it was time to inspire other women to do the same. I wanted to create a space that was safe for women to show up as their most authentic selves. Free from shame or guilt. A space where they can tap into their sensuality and explore their sexuality freely and playfully. This was a catalyst for me and my plan to open Essence Movement Studio.
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Growing up I witnessed a lot of hatred, jealousy and hostility between women. Many of my girlfriends, including myself, befriended a lot of the males in our lives because they simply weren't petty or cruel. Having the constant need to compete with our fellow women, rather than celebrate them was heartbreaking. I knew I wanted better for myself & that women deserved better too. I grew tired of witnessing the damage society has brought upon us. Between society telling us how we should show up in the world, to basing our self worth on our appearance, I knew it was time to overrule these horrific norms and rewrite our own story - the new one! One that would heal the sister-wound and bring women back to one another.
Essence Movement Studio was born from a desire to be of full service to my community! It was created to help women through their journey to radical self love and self acceptance, while providing a community of sisters who genuinely and authentically support one another. At Essence Movement Studio we combine different modalities of movement and healing from: Breathe work, Sensual embodiment, Heels classes, Body love classes, Energy work and more, to really assist women along their journey to self love and pure badassery!
BIO: Jessica has been passionate about dance since the moment she could walk. This passion carried her through her younger years and encouraged her to take the next step to further her development as an artist. Jessica started training at the age 13; dancing at many reputable studios within the GTA and Toronto area. Jessica is classically trained in the following styles: RAD Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Tap, Modern, Acro, Hip hop and Heels. In her young adult years Jessica joined The Cast in Toronto, Ontario and this was the start of her professional career. Jessica has had the opportunity to dance with many reputable artists and choreographers some of which include: Luther Brown, Tatiana Parker, Angela Mahoney, George Jones Jr. Jessica has been apart of music videos, live stage performances, Canadian & European tours, as well as some tv/film opportunities.
I am Magnetic when I stand in my power
MEET OUR TEAM
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Afrodisiac | Beginner heels | Spark your essence
Natasha’s journey with dance began at age nine, when she discovered her love for movement through a local Afro-Caribbean dance group in Oshawa. This early connection to rhythm and culture fuelled her passion, eventually leading her to join Toronto’s renowned Dance Caribe Performing Company. With Dance Caribe, Natasha performed in four major productions and had the unforgettable experience of touring the Caribbean in 2007.
After taking a break from dance to focus on her education, career, and family, Natasha reignited her artistic flame in 2019, immersing herself in the world of heels dance under the mentorship of Jessica Saunders. Since then, she has been a proud performer in every Essence Movement Studio live stage show, embodying her growth and love for the art form.
In November 2023, Natasha stepped into a new role as an instructor at Essence Movement Studio, sharing her expertise and passion with beginner heels dancers. Drawing on her Afro-Caribbean roots and years of performance experience, Natasha strives to inspire others to embrace movement, confidence, and joy through dance.
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Beginner Heels
A mother of two and a full time esthetician, Mia is truly following in that little girls footsteps!! Mia rediscovered her passion for dance after years of focusing on family and career. Her journey began at the age of six years old where she trained in singing, dancing and acting at The Stage School of Performing Arts in Scotland. After relocating to Canada at 19, she then began to prioritize her education and building new connections, due to this she slowly moved away from dancing and performing.
In her late twenties, Mia reignited her love for dance, captivated by the mesmerizing world of heels and jazz funk. Her first class with Jessica ignited a spark, leading her to become a dedicated and passionate member of Essence Movement Studios from day one!!
Mia's classes are an invitation to slow down, connect with the sensual, and rediscover the beauty of movement. Expect a beautiful beginner class with little to no technique - just fun, slow & meaningful movement and expression.
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Beginner Sassy Sneakers
Renee’s dance journey began at just three years old when a shy little penguin waddled onto the stage for her first recital. She dabbled in jazz and ballet throughout her early years but truly discovered her passion at 13, when she fell in love with hip-hop. The beat, rhythm, and bass ignited a spark that never dimmed. From age 14 to 30, Renee competed in hip-hop dance, choreographed for her high school cheer squad, and trained extensively in Toronto and local studios. Wherever there was adult hip-hop, Renee was there.
As a mom of two, she danced well into her third trimester with both pregnancies, and dance became her lifeline postpartum, reconnecting her with herself during the demanding early days of motherhood. Renee believes there’s no expiration date for dance—if it brings you joy and feeds your soul, you should never stop. And if you’ve never started? It’s never too late!
In recent years, Renee expanded her repertoire to include heels training, becoming one of Jess’s “OG” dancers since 2019. She has performed in two Essence shows: one featuring hip-hop/street styles and another in heels.
Renee is thrilled to grow within the Essence Movement Studio community. Her classes promise undeniable energy—from dynamic warmups and exercises to vibey choreography. Whether it’s a nostalgic throwback or the latest banger, her playlist will keep you moving. Renee brings a versatile style, offering a mix of sensual, sassy, upbeat, and grimey vibes. Get ready for an unforgettable experience every time you step into her class!
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Beginner Heels
Natalia is one of our newest instructors who's goal is to bring heart, hustle, and positive vibes into the studio.
She started dancing in 2018 with no formal experience— but a deep love for music (she plays piano and guitar!). From shy beginner to confident performer, Natalia took many classes and programs at Essence Movement Studio, eventually finding her own style, linking music and movement in her body.
Now a proud mom (with baby #2 on the way!), Natalia’s journey proves that women can do anything. Dancing through pregnancy and postpartum taught her just how strong and powerful women are.
In her classes, expect a supportive, judgment-free zone full of intention, strength-building, and technical breakdowns to help you move safely and confidently. She’s all about connecting to your body, celebrating growth, and having a blast while doing it.
WOMEN ARE CYCLICAL BEINGS BY NATURE, GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION TO RIDE THE WAVE RATHER THAN RIDE AGAINST IT”
JESS SAUNDERS, FOUNDER OF ESSENCE MOVEMENT STUDIO
