Neroli Salon & Spa | Team Spotlight: Sophia, Mequon Massage Therapist

Team Spotlight: Sophia, Mequon Massage Therapist

by neroli.admin

THERE ARE PEOPLE WHO ARE BEAUTIFUL on the inside,
and people who are beautiful on the outside.

Then there are people who are both beautiful on the inside and the outside.
Sophia, Mequon Massage Therapist, is one of those people.

With shiny brunette locks and a smile for miles, Sophia shares her recommendations for living a more fulfilling, holistic, healthy life.

Where were you before becoming a massage therapist?
Before becoming a Massage Therapist, I was a nursing student and collegiate athlete at Marian University in Fond du Lac.

What inspired you to become a professional massage therapist?
It was in nursing school that I quickly learned that my passion was the human body and the muscles. I did well in the Anatomy and Physiology classes, but the more I got into the core nursing classes I knew a different path would suite me better. I am so happy with massage therapy; it’s a more holistic route to healing.

Above: Sophia and her team provide chair massages on the course.

Are there any points of difference for an Aveda massage?
Some points that set an Aveda massage aside from others would be the events leading up to the massage. You are greeted with infused water or Aveda Comforting Tea (so good!), offered a foot soak with stress fix bath salts and oils or a eucalyptus steam shower. Once you get into a treatment room you are taken on a sensory journey to choose an aroma for your service. The products and aromas themselves really make an Aveda massage unique. We begin all services with tingsha bells to set the tone for the beginning and end of the massage and clear the unwanted, heavy energy in the room.

Above: What a foot soak looks like at Neroli Salon & Spa.

What is the greatest misconception people have about massage therapy?
I personally think that the greatest misconception about massage therapy is that it is simply a luxury. It doesn’t have to be a once-a-year birthday treat. Massage has more benefits than most are aware of such as decrease pain, increase circulation, decrease anxiety/depression symptoms, increase energy, decrease headaches/migraines, increase focus and so on.
Just because a massage is enjoyable doesn’t mean it is unnecessary.

What is your philosophy on healing?
My philosophy on healing is that it includes mind, body, and spirit. You need to find balance to be healthy. Instead of rushing to your massage after work, give yourself time in between so you can be in a calm state of mind to receive treatment. Instead of ‘checking out’ on a massage table, ‘check in’ by being aware of how your body feels, practice deep diaphragmatic breathing, and remain in an active resting state. And spiritually, be thankful everyday for your body and its abilities and always treat it with kindness and respect. Lastly, everyone should know that massage therapy isn’t always a quick fix. It can take time, multiple sessions, at home practices, and possibly even lifestyle changes.

Above: Sophia practices yoga to connect her mind and body.

What piece of advice would you give to people before they book a massage?
My biggest piece of advice I have to offer is to GIVE YOURSELF TIME! Allow yourself time to arrive to the spa early, unwind, clear your head, hydrate, and enjoy a steam shower or foot soak. Take advantage of the relaxing, quiet, and dark space away from children, technology, and the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The moments leading up to and after your massage are so crucial to the lasting benefits.

Above: Sophia and her fiancé, Jared.

Finish the sentence: On my days off, I love to _____.
Practice yoga, go for walks by the lake, spend time with my cat, Preston, and fiancé,Jared.
Lately I have been busy planning our wedding coming up next May!