Business Owner says 'Healing Arts' are Part of Who She Is

Business: The Sanctuary for Healing Therapies
860 Broad St, Suite 114
610-965-7980
www.thesanctuary4healing.com
Hours: By appointment
Owner: FreeDom Platia

What inspired you to start this business? 
Well, I’ve always wanted to do this actually. When I was 4, my mom took me to a Rodale book fair, and I bought two books -- one was a Kripalu yoga book and the other was a massage book. Growing up, I got into artistic things, but it always came back to the healing arts. I mean I love it -- it’s definitely more than just a job; it’s really an aspect of who I am.

What service you do provide? 
We have four massage therapists who offer a range of treatments -- various massage techniques as well as aromatherapy. I’m also going to school to become an herbalist, so I’m doing free consultations for people to figure out the right herbal formulas to best help their needs.

Why was this business located in Emmaus? 
There were a lot of people that showed interest in massage here, and also I just love this community. I think it’s a great area to have a business in. 

How long have you been in business? 
Since 2010.

What’s the most rewarding part about this business? 
Seeing people feel good when they leave. They come in in pain and they’re hurting. They think that nothing’s going to help; they just feel awful. When they come out of the room, you know you made a difference -- they’re feeling good, they’re going out of here feeling better, and they have a quality of life again. That’s definitely the best part. 

What makes this business different from the competition? 
We cater specifically to people’s needs. We don’t just do sequenced massages -- we specialize, so if that person has something going on, we will do whatever we need to help them. Our clients love us because we care. If they’re in a lot of pain and they just came in, we’ll call and check up on them. There’s that level of personalization and a connection that happens.

What’s the best business advice you’ve ever received? 
Just be real with your clients and the people that you’re with because that’s ultimately what’s going to shine through. Just be honest and real; you don’t have to put on a facade. 

What business advice would you give to someone else? 
If you feel it, follow your dream with it. 

Do you have a role model for what you do? 
As far as massage therapy, I just want to help people. I don’t really have someone I look up to -- I just want to aspire to be the best that I can be. With the herbs, I’d say David Winston, who’s my teacher. I really respect and admire him and aspire to be as wonderful as he is some day with my herbs. 

What do you do in your free time? 
I make herbal remedies, I play with my son in the creek, and I like to go on adventures with my son and my boyfriend.

Anything else the community should know? 
A lot of people think massage is a form of pampering, but this isn’t just a luxury -- it’s actually a lifestyle. It’s like exercise; it’s part of your well-being and prevention from having to be at the doctor’s office all the time.