![_DSC0156-XL[1] 2.00.16 PM](http://manchesterinklink.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/DSC0156-XL1-2.00.16-PM.jpg "Business Spotlight: Peaceful Strength Massage Therapy 1")
MANCHESTER, NH – We’re happy to introduce a new occasional feature – Business Spotlight – a great way to get to know the merchants behind Manchester’s local business ventures.
To get things started, meet Licensed Massage Therapist Lisa Poole of Peaceful Strength Massage Therapy. You may recognize her as one of our regular advertising partners here on Manchester Ink Link.
Read on to learn more about Poole, her business, and why she does what she does.
Q: Tell us a little bit about your business – what makes it unique?
I am the sole proprietor and massage therapist of Peaceful Strength Massage Therapy. I have a background in personal training, an associate’s degree in exercise science along with my certificate and license in massage therapy. My focus is on health and wellness. As a sole practitioner, every client is my client. There is no bouncing between therapists. I really get to know you and your body, giving me the ability to help you achieve the changes necessary to feel better after your massage. I love to encourage healthy lifestyle changes so those daily aches and pains will be eliminated.
Q: What is your backstory (the highlights reel), as in how did you get where you are right now?
In my 20s I discovered weight training. It was the first “sport” I felt confident in. That sparked my interests in health and wellness. I decided to get my associate’s degree and become a personal trainer. I became a mom shortly after and was able to work part time as a trainer and be a stay-at-home mom. I loved working with others, helping them achieve their health and fitness goals. Once my kids were older I got an office job working as a health claims analyst. The office job was very frustrating for me. I spent all day working on a computer and being tied to a phone. I missed the personal interaction of training. I wanted out of the office job, but now being in my early 40s, did not want to compete with the 20-somethings in the gym. As I was soul searching my husband got injured while exercising. I tried to help him feel better by rubbing his back and shoulder. It was then that I had my light bulb moment and decided to go to massage school. I continued to work while in school. Once I was licensed I started my practice while still working part time. After a few months I came in to the office and they were making mandatory changes and enforcing overtime; I’d had enough. With my family’s blessing, I jumped ship and went to work full time for myself. Four years, lots of tears, frustrations and a huge business learning curve later, I am where I am today.
Q: In your experience, what are the most common reasons people seek a massage therapist?
People seek out massage for a variety of reasons. Pain relief and stress management are the biggest reasons I see in my office. Massage was seen in the past as just a luxury for the well-to-do, as a special once-a-year treat only done when someone has given you a gift certificate. That is not the case nowadays. Physicians, physical therapist, personal trainers and mental health professionals all recommend massage to help with pain management, stress relief and anxiety problems. Health insurances are starting to look at covering massage for medical reasons (some are even covering now). In my office I accept Health Savings Account debit cards (pre-tax dollars set aside for medical expenses). I have clients of all age-ranges and walks of life. Anyone who is looking for a drug-free way to help with pain and stress management can benefit from massage on a regular basis.
Q: Why is doing what you do so important to you?
I have a huge desire to help others. I feel that being in good health is very important. I want to help reduce stress and rid the body of aches and pains, all while sharing my knowledge of health and fitness. I remember how awful I felt sitting at a desk all day. It was my desire to remain healthy that kept me moving and exercising on a regular basis. I want to share my passion so others can feel better in this age of sitting more and moving less and less.
Q: What’s one thing about you that may surprise people?
I do not practice yoga or play sports.
Q: What’s your favorite part of the job?
The favorite part of my job has been getting to know my clients. Over time I have built many great relationships and feel like Peaceful Strength is my little family.
Q: What is the most challenging aspect of running a business like yours?
Marketing, web site stuff (design SEO, etc.).
Q: How can people find out more about your business, and are you running any specials?
I can be found on line peaceful-strength.com, 603-738-6393. I offer new clients a $10 discount on their first appointment. I have package programs so the client can make massage a regular part of their health and wellness routine. I also offer a birthday discount, military discount and a referral program.
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Find out how to get your business featured in our Business Spotlight by emailing Carol Robidoux at robidouxnews@gmail.com.
