Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Serena Simpson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Serena, thanks for joining us today. What do you think it takes to be successful?

As a massage therapist, I believe that success in this field requires a combination of technical skills, knowledge of anatomy and physiology, effective communication, professionalism, continuous education, business and marketing skills, and self-care. First and foremost, I strive to master various massage techniques and apply them effectively to meet my clients’ specific needs. Understanding the human body and how it functions is crucial for providing targeted and effective treatments. Building a strong rapport with my clients through open and honest communication is essential in understanding their goals and providing them with the best possible care. Maintaining a high level of professionalism, such as being punctual, maintaining confidentiality, and creating a safe environment, helps in gaining trust and respect from clients. Engaging in continuous learning through workshops and advanced training allows me to stay up to date with the latest developments in the field. I also recognize the importance of business and marketing skills, including creating a strong online presence and maintaining positive client relationships. Lastly, I prioritize self-care to ensure my own physical and mental well-being, as this is vital for longevity and success in this demanding profession. Overall, by embodying these qualities and continuously striving to improve, I believe I can achieve success as a massage therapist.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a passionate and dedicated massage therapist who pursued my dream of helping others by attending Five Branches University in 2012 where I learned the art of massage therapy, acupressure, and Qigong. With a focus on relieving Ciatic tension and providing headache relief, I have developed a specialization in these areas to better serve my clients. As I enter my 12th year in this fulfilling career, I am proud to have built a reputation for longevity and exceptional service. At The Body Shoppe, my massage studio, I offer deep tissue massage with acupressure point relief, reflexology, and a genuine love for what I do. In addition to my services, The Body Shoppe is a collective of shops within a shop, including Massage by Monica for pregnancy massage, Skin by Cilla for esthetician services, and Blackened Silver Tattoo & MSP for micro-scalp pigmentation. I believe in the power of healing touch and strive to create a comforting and rejuvenating experience for each of my clients. As Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I embarked on a journey that tested my resilience and challenged every ounce of determination within me. In 2016, I proudly opened my first massage studio, Mill St Massage Studio, in the quaint town of Ben Lomond, California. For four years, we flourished, providing a haven of tranquility and healing for our cherished clients. But then, the world turned upside down. The pandemic struck, followed by the devastating CZU Lightning fire, forcing the closure of my beloved studio. It was a devastating blow. Yet, I refused to let adversity define me. With my husband by my side, we made the courageous decision to relocate to Salinas, California, to rebuild our dream. Thus, The Body Shoppe was born. Rebuilding our clientele from scratch was a daunting task, but I was fueled by an unwavering determination and an unyielding belief in the power of resilience. I poured my heart and soul into creating a welcoming space, offering exceptional customer service, and harnessing the potential of social media. Slowly but surely, the Salinas community embraced The Body Shoppe, recognizing the passion and dedication I brought to every massage session. Today, in our third year of operation, The Body Shoppe stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit. I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to share my passion for healing with the beautiful and welcoming people of Salinas. This journey has taught me that with persistence, unwavering dedication, and a positive mindset, we can overcome any adversity and create a new chapter filled with success and fulfillment.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

As a business owner and massage therapist, there are several strategies I employ to ensure that both myself and my small team maintain high morale. Firstly, I believe in fostering a positive and supportive work environment. I make it a point to acknowledge and appreciate the hard work and contributions of each team member regularly. This can be through small gestures like personalized thank-you texts and positive reinforcement.

Communication is another key aspect of maintaining high morale. I encourage open and honest communication within the team, where everyone feels safe to express their thoughts, concerns, and ideas. One-on-one check-ins allow me to address any issues promptly and provide guidance and support when needed.

To keep morale high, I also prioritize professional development and growth opportunities for my team. I truly believe in their skills and knowledge. This not only enhances their expertise but also shows that I value their personal and professional growth.

Creating a healthy work-life balance is crucial in maintaining high morale. I encourage my team to take breaks, practice self-care, and prioritize their well-being. Allowing flexibility in their own scheduling helps prevent burnout and promotes a healthy work environment.

Lastly, I strive to create a sense of camaraderie and teamwork within my small team. Acknowledging milestones, birthdays, and achievements together boosts morale and creates a positive and supportive work culture.

By implementing these strategies, I aim to ensure that both myself and my small team thrive in a positive and motivated work environment, leading to high morale and overall success.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.vagaro.com/thebodyshoppe3
• Instagram: @thebodyshoppe_offmain
• Facebook: Serena Simpson C.M.T