Today we’d like to introduce you to Stacy Harden
Hi Stacy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I began my journey by making a firm decision to change my life. Before stepping into what I now know is my purpose, I was lost. Overwhelmed, unhealed, unhealthy, and unsure of my direction. As a single mother, I was committed to being the best nurturer I could be for my two sons. But at the time, I was just trying to figure it all out.
Together, we started practicing yoga and mindful activities, spending time outdoors, going on nature walks, and having deep conversations. Something inside me knew that I wanted more than just survival for us, I wanted us to thrive, to live happily in spite of our circumstances.
Then, something happened that redirected my path. I had been gifted a massage gift certificate for my mother! My very first opportunity to experience a professional massage. I sat on it for over a year, and it eventually expired. Thankfully, with grace, the massage therapist still honored it. I traveled to West Milton, Ohio, for the treatment, and as soon as I stepped into that space, I felt safe. It was quiet, peaceful, and exactly what I needed at that moment in my life. The therapist was so in tune with my body, answering my questions, taking her time, and applying the perfect pressure.
When I got up from the table, I remember thinking, how amazing I felt! This was exactly what I needed! I felt refreshed, recharged, joyful, and blissful. And in that moment, I knew, other people needed this, too. That was the start of a new beginning.
Upon returning home, I started researching the massage field. Within a week, I had scheduled an appointment to meet with the director of a massage therapy school. Everything aligned. By September 2016, I was enrolled at the Dayton School of Medical Massage. The program lasted 11 months, and before I graduated, I was hired at Massage Envy. My plan was to work there for a year to gain training, experience, and confidence before stepping out on my own.
That’s exactly what I did! In February 2019, I created Temple of Esteem Massage, a space dedicated to healing, self-care, and empowerment.
Now, six years later, I am expanding my business into a full spa. I am currently completing renovations to create a space where healing goes beyond massage. My goal is to collaborate with established estheticians and other massage therapists, providing opportunities for us to develop our businesses together while spreading knowledge about self-love and holistic healing practices.
In addition to offering high-quality therapeutic services, I will also be selling self-care products in the new location. This expansion is not just about growth; it’s about creating an experience where people can fully embrace their well-being, inside and out.
This journey has been incredible, and I’m excited for what’s ahead. I am grateful for the support, the lessons, and the alignment that continues to confirm I am exactly where I am meant to be.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There were definitely challenges! Balancing raising kids while studying, staying focused, and working. But I did it! The biggest struggles were personal more than anything. And ironically, those same struggles are what make massage therapy so essential for our well-being.
As for my business, things have flowed smoothly! Alignment has been my confirmation that I’m on the right path. I am exactly where I’m supposed to be. I’ve been connected to so many wonderful people, which has led to even more beautiful connections, assisting me along the way.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that I had to step out of my shell and truly show up for my business. I had to introduce people to who I am, what I offer, and how I can help. It took getting out of my comfort zone and putting myself out there. But I wanted to, because I believe this is impactful work that blesses all of us!
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Temple of Esteem?
Temple of Esteem Massage is a 5-star rated company with over 150 reviews on Google, reflecting our commitment to exceptional care and healing. I am a licensed medical massage therapist and the owner for 6 years. Specializing in pain management, deep tissue, relaxation, stretch therapies, and preventative treatments. The studio provides a space for clients seeking both physical relief and mental well-being. With a mission to promote self-care and wellness! What sets us apart is our personalized approach! Each session is tailored to meet the unique needs of our guests, whether they seek relief from chronic pain, stress management, or a moment of deep relaxation. We cater to executives, business professionals, and individuals dedicated to self-care, providing a sanctuary where they can recharge and restore balance.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
The COVID-19 crisis reinforced just how essential self-care and stress management are for overall well-being. It highlighted the importance of adaptability in business. Enhancing sanitation protocols, and educating clients on self-massage and stretching techniques when in-person services weren’t available.
One of the biggest lessons was understanding the value of resilience and community support. Clients realized how much they relied on massage therapy for pain relief and stress reduction, which strengthened their commitment to prioritizing wellness.
That period also sparked a need for me to explore additional streams of income. The uncertainty of the pandemic made it clear that relying solely on hands-on services wasn’t enough. This led me to develop my own product line, Temple Dose, designed to help clients continue their self-care routines at home. Through Temple Dose, I was able to extend my mission beyond the massage table, offering products that promote relaxation, healing, and overall well-being.
Overall, the pandemic reinforced that massage therapy isn’t just a luxury, it’s a crucial part of maintaining physical and mental health. It also pushed me to think beyond traditional services and create something that could continue supporting people no matter what challenges arise.
Pricing:
- $65/hr & $85/ 1.5hr- INTRO to WELLNESS (1st time visitors)
- $80/1hr & 110/90 mins -Standard Rate
- $50/ -30 min treatments
- $200/$250 -Couples Massage
- $100/hr & $140/1.5hr – Deep Tissue
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.massagebook.com/TempleofEsteemMassageStudio
- Other: https://dot.cards/templeofesteem
