We recently connected with Windi Bauer and have shared our conversation below.

Windi, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear about how you went about setting up your own practice and if you have any advice for professionals who might be considering starting their own?

It was January 2023 and I was on my way to the bank, get my nails done and then head into work in San Francisco Ca. I was excited because I had a few new treatments on my schedule. I felt on top of the world. Everything seemed to be in place. As I was walking thru the parking lot I slipped and fell. Had to be taken to the ER in an ambulance. Basically I tore my hamstring right off the SITS bone and was in terrible pain and could not walk. I was in a state of despair . Would I ever be able to work again? Massage is my passion and I absolutely loved my job. During the next few days of my recovery and friend decided to go out on her own and open up a space where she practices esthetics. She asked me if I was interested in renting a space. I was scared and still very unsure if I would be able to massage. Although I loved the Spa where I had been working I felt like after 20 years of being in the industry I needed to make a change. During the next few weeks my leg began to heal and I began to prepare all the things that are involved with setting up your own space. Equipment, decor, intake forms, the list goes on and on.
My biggest challenges were the physical ones due to my injury and getting new clients.
If I were to give anybody any advice it would be to pace yourself, training is always good and even when life seems to be against you and you are unsure that may be the best time to make a change and take a risk.
Here I am a little over a year later and I am busier than ever. 80% of my clients are regulars and very loyal. Also do not be afraid to partner with someone who offers different service than you. The benefits are endless.

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

I started in the spa industry about 23 years ago. I started as an office manage at a small day spa in Long Beach Ca. I instantly fell in love with all of it. As I would make appointments I realized that I wanted to perform these treatments, seaweed wraps, massage, Vichy and salt scrubs. So I went to massage school and the journey still continues.
My treatments are restorative and holistic in nature. I provide a beautiful space where my clients can relax and begin a healing process. My products use the power of seaweed, essential oils and CBD.Most of my clients are suffering from chronic pain, grief and general stress.
I think what sets me apart from others is that I also incorporate Reiki, reflexology and and the use of steam and CBD. Every massage from me is a treatment.
The thing I am most proud of is that I have been able to still do this work after 20 years. I have worked at some of the best spas out there, trained with some of the best therapist out there and have been introduced to so may effective product lines. It has been super challenging physically and mentally but I love it . To still be able to work, train and learn is amazing.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

If I could go back I would absolutely choose the same profession.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

I think the most helpful way for succeeding in massage therapy is to pace yourself. It’s ok to say no and rest your body. Also get treatments as often as you can. It will help your body recover and it is very inspiring.

Contact Info:

• Website: Alyssa Lauren.glossgenius.com
• Instagram: @wellness_by_windilou