Hodgkins has the touch for massage therapy business - hngnews.com

[admin]

Last Friday, ambassadors from the McFarland Chamber of Commerce gathered at Creative Touch Bodyworks to celebrate the business’s 15 years. Mary Hodgkins has been serving clients at the Larson Beach Road location inside of the American Family Insurance office for the last year. Prior to then, Creative Touch was a mobile visit making house calls.
The Thistle talked with Hodgkins about what brough about her decision to become a massage therapist, her experience at the 2002 Olympics and the endurance of her business.
Q: Why did you decide to open Creative Touch Bodyworks in McFarland?
A: I have lived in McFarland since 1995. As my children got older, it was time to turn my mobile business into an on-site location so I could grow my business around our busy life. I needed the convenience of working where I live and I loved the idea of being part of the local economic community.
Q: What prompted you to become a massage therapist?
A: My earliest memories are massaging my brothers’ backs while sitting on their bum and watching TV. They are nine and 10 years older so it was one of the few times I wasn't considered a pest. Seventeen years ago my husband threw his back out and had acute sciatica. He was told it would take 18 months to heal, and I didn't like that answer. I studied anatomy on my own and worked the muscles involved for an hour every night. In six months he recovered. I remember looking at him and saying “Maybe I should be doing this for clients who need help, too.â€￾
Q: What do you enjoy most about being a massage therapist?
A: It is truly an honor for someone to trust me to help them feel better. There aren't many jobs where your clients leave feeling better than when they came in.
Q: We were told you served as a massage therapist at the 2002 Olympics. How did you get this opportunity and what was it like to be there?
A: I found out about massage at the Olympics in a trade magazine, and filled out the online application. It was an amazing experience to be at the different venues at the Olympics. This was the first Olympics after 9-11 and despite the intense security measures being take everywhere, there was a sense of camaraderie, patience and grace. The true spirit of the Olympics blanketed the city and wove itself into every interaction.
Q: Your business has been open for 15 years, what do you attribute your success and longevity to?
A: I learned a lot about service in my first career in credit unions. I strive to treat my clients in a way that I would like to be treated if they were giving me a massage - with respect, integrity, compassion, consideration and the right amount of pampering! The massage experience really starts from the moment they drive into your parking lot until they drive out. I try to consider all aspects of the massage experience and execute consistency to maintain a high standard of that experience.
Q: What makes McFarland a great community to open and operate a business?
A: We are a strong community and take pride in our village. Being a resident and business owner in McFarland has doubled the opportunities to volunteer time and donate services to our local organizations that will benefit others.*