I recently had the opportunity to visit Laura Holmes, owner of Essence Body Therapy, for an Indian Head Massage. Without having a clue of what that was, I thought it sounded like something that would be relaxing and that would be another notch on my "Try New Things" belt. So, out I ventured to the East End of Toronto, into her lovely home studio (which smelled like heaven!) and then into 40 minutes of blissful massage.
What is an Indian Head Massage? Well, it's a head massage. It's an ancient technique that helps to rejuvenate your energy, clear your cloudy mind, relax your sore, tense muscles, and is even known to promote hair re-growth. I loved my experience and was so blissed out at the end if it that all I wanted to do was sniff gorgeous candles from Laura's collection and talk more about how she came to do this. Here's what I learned about this gorgeous and inspiring entrepreneur who has come on board with us as a Member We LOVE!
Describe your business/career/what you do in a few sentences.
I believe that living in balance is living fully. Whether that means balance in your health, body, mind, spirit, or home; finding balance is a personal journey for each individual. I love to help others on their journey creating prosperity and happiness through strengthening their bodies with martial arts/self defense training and coaching, energizing their spirit with holistic treatments, and creating a haven of comfort and peace in their home with beautiful PartyLite candles and home decor.
What sets you apart from other entrepreneurs/companies in your line of work?
I believe that what sets me apart from others, is the unique set of skills that I have. Being a holistic practitioner, career martial artist and working with beautiful products to enrich people's homes are all unique skill sets that allow me to help others in different areas of their lives.
I am also rated as one of the top 10 Reiki Practitioners in Toronto – a title that I am honored and proud of. The more I can help others, the more they in turn can do so as well.
What has been your biggest failure? How did you overcome it?
My biggest failure was when my travel agency closed. This was a business I had worked hard on for many years. It was failing as the market was changing. I decided to see it as an opportunity to focus more on the other things that I loved, so it became a blessing after all.
What kind of culture exists in your organization? How did you establish this tone and why did you institute this particular type of culture?
I will speak to this on two levels. As a Caucasian female martial artist, I can’t begin to tell you the pitfalls, challenges and roadblocks that are put in your way. I decided that I wasn’t going to let that stop me, so for years I just charged on - teaching my classes, putting on demos, doing community outreach, traveling and teaching internationally. I like to think that I have helped to strengthen the perception and vision of women as strong, powerful and skilled in the martial arts community.
As a holistic healer, the journey has been an interesting one. There are many things on your journey that you have to face, and then decide if you want to move past them or continue to carry them on your back. I feel that in the culture of healers, we are always healing others but can sometimes forget that healing ourselves is the number one priority.
You are always first, because if you don't work to create a balanced, energized space, how can you attempt to help others do the same. There is very much a huge community of healers in Toronto, made up of all different modalities. I always maintain the ideal that I can always learn or experience more from other healers and that my cup is never full. I pass this onto my students and for those clients who are looking to different/alternative methods of healing – experimentation is the key – find out what works for you. I am always here to guide you, but only you can become the healer you choose to be.
What sacrifices have you had to make to be a successful entrepreneur?
I thought this was an interesting question. At the time, I didn’t see it as a sacrifice, but to further my businesses and careers, I would miss family events on weekends and at other times to take courses and certifications that I needed to move forward in my business. I never regretted doing it, but I know my family didn’t always understand.
How have you changed since becoming a successful entrepreneur?
As a successful entrepreneur, its amazing. There seems to be more space to help others. I find that I am much more relaxed and centered in myself and what I do. Everything comes from a place of joy – well almost everything! I no longer have to push for success - I just allow it to come in and tap into it when it does. I am also a lot more focused on helping others.
Where you see yourself and your business in 10 years? 20 years?
I plan to continue to help people learn how to heal themselves, through treatment, training, certification and the ideals that we are all working to serve each other in mind body and spirit.
A huge thanks to Laura once again for introducing me to such an amazing way to relax, and a beautiful therapy that can help so many. You are an inspiration, Laura!
For more on Laura or to book an appointment with her, visit her website here.
For more on our Members We LOVE program and how to be part of it, click here.
In Happiness & Health,
Natalie Colalillo
