Sadie Hefel is one of Body Wisdom School’s most successful graduates and one of our most beloved teachers. She started her business, Divine Current Massage, as a solo Practitioner in June 2013, and after moving around to 3 other locations, she finally expanded into her current space at Divine Current Wellness, where she teaches yoga and has two other therapy rooms for additional therapists. Sadie shares her journey and her “Secret Sauce for Success.”
My “Secret Sauce” is my presence and flow. I’m fully attentive to each client, observing their movements and how they carry themselves and actively listening to their bodily cues. This helps me tailor my approach, utilizing various massage techniques I’ve mastered through Body Wisdom’s diverse classes. This variety has equipped me with a comprehensive skill set, enabling me to confidently address my clients’ varied ailments, ranging from student-athletes to older folks.
Expanding into Divine Current Wellness Center: After 8 years of solo practice, I craved a team vibe. I maxed out my client capacity and added yoga to my skillset. I finished my training in early 2021 and searched for the perfect studio space. Started small, with just three classes, especially with COVID still around. In our small town, finding the right space was tough, but the Community Vitality Director was a huge help!
Building a Team: Another massage therapist joined me in the new space, and soon, two other practitioners (specializing in sound healing and facials) reached out. I focused on creating a certain feel for the space and choosing services that complement each other.
Client Support and Education: We’ve introduced punch cards for discounts. It’s been so rewarding to support clients, especially those with loss. Teaching people to connect with their bodies and understand the muscles they’re working on has been a big part of our mission.
Team Meetings and Morale: We hold regular meetings to maintain morale. It’s a chance to connect, support each other, and discuss any feedback or changes.
Facility Updates: We added an Infrared Sauna after the first year, partially funded by a local grant. I wanted something that could run without needing a practitioner’s direct involvement. It’s great for couples or singles who want to relax in a more spacious setup.
Team Management: Managing a team was new to me, but raising two teenagers sure taught me a thing or two! Each practitioner runs their own business under our roof, and I’ve loved mentoring the younger members of our team.
Self-Care Focus: Self-care is my mantra! Whether it’s yoga, the sauna, or enjoying a session with another practitioner, it’s all about practicing what I preach. Sometimes I joke that I built this wellness center just so I didn’t have to travel far for these services!
Community Adaptation and Future Plans: Advice? Listen to your community’s needs. When I started, I offered only longer sessions, but soon realized the need for shorter, more accessible options like Chair Yoga. We plan to add more walk-in services for tourists, like Detox Foot Baths. And we’re really focusing on nurturing our team’s chemistry and community involvement.
Staying Inspired and Adaptable: Keep your mind open to the magic of this field. Find mentors, not just in massage but in other areas, like digital marketing. Being open to change is key – sometimes, you must tweak your services or schedule to keep your life balanced.
Hope this gives you some insights and inspiration for your own practice!
Take care, Sadie
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