You might think that a bit far-fetched but let me tell you, it’s possible. I know because it happened to me…
My connection with The Wellness Center began in 2000 when I was in Corporate Human Resources as a Sr. Benefits Analyst. A benefit program I managed in that role was one that offered employees discounted massages through The Wellness Center. Sharon and I worked together in this endeavor and enjoyed the partnership. One day when faced with the choice to stay and work for someone I could not trust nor respect or take a severance package, I called my husband to ask his advice. He told me to go to The Wellness Center to get a massage and we’d talk about it that evening. I called and scheduled a 90 minute massage within hours.
Sitting in the tiny waiting room we had back then, I was seated next to the tranquility fountain. I was focused on slowing and deepening my breath when the thought occurred to me that THIS was the kind of environment I needed. I was in my early 30’s and incredibly unhealthy. I honestly don’t know how long I could have survived living the way I was, but in that moment, I was simply thinking about how good it felt to sit in this space. Before I knew it, I heard myself ask if there were any positions available. Turns out Erin Janes, the office manager at the time, was going to be stepping into an Assistant Director role and her position was, indeed, going to become available! Sharon replied to my inquiry by asking who I had in mind and again, independent of my brain, my mouth said “Me.” Her eyes got BIG and we agreed to talk after my massage. During that massage, I realized an unexpected gift had appeared. Did I want to open it? I melted into my massage and stopped thinking. In doing so, I released fear. I relinquished expectations. I then had the most transformative session of my life. After my massage and talking to Sharon, the relief and excitement I had in considering this an option was palpable. Could I really decide to step away from the corporate world and into the realm of wellness, healers, empowerment and creativity?? The opportunity felt heady! I went home and shared my experience with my husband. He readily agreed a change would do me a world of good and allow for new expressions of myself to emerge. I was going to tear open that gift!!
That 90 minute massage changed my life!
From that moment on, my life has shifted in so many ways. In March 2002, I began my journey of awakened living with The Wellness Center as an administrative assistant and in July of that year I transitioned into the role of Office Manager. During my first year at TWC, I dived into photography which had been emerging as a passion for me. I put up my first show of artwork throughout the center and had an unbelievably validating response, selling more pieces than any artist TWC had previously showcased. This led to photography becoming an important outlet for me creatively and financially.
In 2009, I became the Assistant Director and during the following year, I decided to pursue CranioSacral Therapy training as my 3 year old son kept using his head for everything! I figured if I learned the modality, I could facilitate treatment myself and then offer it to family, friends and colleagues. I found that the zen experience I had doing a CST session was as beneficial to me as it was for the client, so it, too, became part of my growth in this wonderfully vast and intriguing field of alternative healthcare. I stepped into my role as Director in 2012 and most recently, I have begun writing feature articles for a global multi-platform book lovers community. This endeavor has sparked a huge expansion of my interests, ability and vulnerability. Once again, the validation and support I am receiving as I release each article is incredibly empowering. I am finding that it is FUN to write and present my ideas to such a large community
20 years later…
In reflecting on the last 20 years at The Wellness Center and having been part of almost every phase of its growth, I liken it to raising a child. The center was in its infancy when I arrived and with the help of many others, Sharon and I have raised it through toddler years, teen years and now into adulthood. What pride there is in witnessing the impact we have created with this wonderful sanctuary. Literally tens of thousands of people have walked through our doors! We have made a difference. We have been supported while supporting others. We have had the benefit of spending time with some of the most intentional, engaged, caring people you could ever meet. Yet, the most profound awareness comes from the clients. The testimonies, successes and tears that have been shared with us over the years are sacred. We have journeyed together. What a gift! It is my honor to continue along this path of healing and living with you!
