It's All In The Hands
The Solo Entrepreneur Award at the Manawatu Business Awards 2007 was won by Paula
Harris of Elements Natural Therapy.
The Solo Entrepreneur Award celebrates the success of a micro-business with only
one employee.
Paula Harris, of Elements Natural Therapy, was ecstatic at her win, and also very
surprised.
"One of the best things that came out of the awards process was that, by the end,
I had a much clearer picture of where my business is at and where I want to go in
the future. The award itself was a bonus and a huge boost to my confidence as a
businesswoman."
As an aromatherapist, massage therapist, naturopath and wellness coach, Paula says
just taking time out to come to her calm, fragrant consulting room is a start.
"Men often keep going until they drop, and women are often too busy taking care
of family and friends. I try to educate both, to [show them] that, if they look
after themselves first, they will have more energy for other areas of their lives.
I take an interest in people, and help figure out strategies for dealing with their
stresses."
Some of her clients are stressed because they are juggling full-time jobs, study
and family, and others have specific aches and pains. In both cases, Paula picks
up on their needs and suggests appropriate massage oils and techniques.
"If someone has had a stressful day at work, they may want to feel more relaxed.
Nowadays, employers are more aware of the need for relaxation, and may encourage
their employees to come for a massage."
As well as traditional massage, Paula is skilled in Hawaiian massage (lomilomi)
and hot-stone massage.
She describes Hawaiian massage as rhythmic and relaxing, like a dance. Working with
her hands and forearms, she uses long, flowing strokes over the length of the client's
body to induce relaxation.
During the massage, the client's body is covered with a sarong.
Hot-stone massage (pohaku) is a blend of Hawaiian and spa-style massage and uses
stones, in a variety of sizes and shapes, warmed to a comfortable temperature.
The stones, placed over a towel, are put on different parts of the body. They can
also be used for massage while held in the palm of the hand.
Because the heat of the stones penetrates the deepest tissues, the massage is soothing
and therapeutic.
Manawatu Standard – September 25 2007