We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Michelle Marie a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Michelle, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I was so fortunate to learn my purpose when I was quite young. I always knew I wanted to work for myself and throughout college I was realized I was a healer after working for a Chiropractor in Westwood, CA. I was always excited to go to work, it never felt like a chore… When clients tell me their tension has melted away or their mobility increases, it is so incredibly gratifying for me.
I am blessed to have a few things I enjoy in regards to my profession. I also am a self taught Photographer. My parents would find me taking photos with their camera as a child, but it wasn’t until my 20’s that I realized I had a gift. I feel I am able to make my clients feel comfortable, which makes their light come alive! I also enjoy taking candids and landscapes of my travels also!
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Nearly 30 years I have been a Professional Massage Therapist and it just never gets old… Each day brings in a new situation where I am observing and assessing how to ease their pain. My degree was in Kinesiology and it provided the ability to master Anatomy and how the body can heal itself when relaxed, but my true gift is my intuition. It’s really like a dance of knowing where they need more or and less pressure. The biggest compliment I once received from a client was
“That was medicinal.” That felt terrific to hear!
In regards to my Photography… I guess my creative side is able to come to life here. Whether it is finding a way to pose my clients so everyone looks warm and happy, or capturing a candid moment to treasure for life, I love all of it!
In addition, I love to travel!…Being able to make canvases or prints, cards once I return from home is the best souvenir there is! I sell to High end boutiques and galleries also.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Three qualities.
Persistance
Determination
Patience
There were so many times in the last 30 years I just wanted to give up. A few times I actually sought full time work because the stress of the ups and downs of being self employed was intense. It is not for everyone and at times I think it is not for me…Somehow, someway, it always works out. I am constantly trying to grow and be introspective of another avenue to work smarter not harder. It is an ever evolving project on literally every level. Never become complacent. Always seek help or advice for a different route. Be kind to yourself and others. Never ever, ever…. give up. The universe wants you to win, you just have to believe it too.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I would absolutely love to hear from the Professionals in the Healing arena that may be able to refer me clients. I am happy with my current success, but know that I am capable of so much more.
As for my Photography I would love to seek out galleries and high end boutiques so I can showcase & sell more of my work. I am open to more Pop up type of events also.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.photosbymichellemarie.com
- Instagram: Michelle_MariePhotography
- Yelp: Massage by Michelle Marie
Image Credits
Portrait Photo of me by David Krause.
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
