The Story of Body & Soul Massage
Recently, I had the opportunity to be featured on The Scaling Wellness Podcast, where I shared the story behind Body & Soul Massage and what it has really taken to lead and grow a local massage therapy practice for 20 years here in Salem, MA.
When I opened Body & Soul Massage in 2005, I didn’t set out to “scale” a business. I simply wanted to help people feel better. I was passionate about therapeutic massage and the role it plays in pain relief, stress management, and overall wellness. What I didn’t fully realize at the time was that becoming a business owner would require just as much growth personally as it would professionally.
From Therapist to Leader
In the beginning, I was focused on being the best therapist I could be. But as the years passed and the practice grew, I had to make a shift — from working in the business to working on the business.
That meant:
Learning how to build systems.
Understanding my numbers.
Hiring and mentoring therapists.
Creating a strong team culture.
Making difficult decisions when necessary.
Leadership doesn’t come naturally to everyone. I had to learn how to step into that role. I had to find my voice, trust my instincts, and create a clear vision for what Body & Soul Massage stood for: therapeutic care, professionalism, and a commitment to our community.
Building a Team & a Culture
One of the things I am most proud of is the team we have built. Over the years, Body & Soul Massage has evolved from a solo practice into a collaborative group of skilled therapists who share the same mission; helping clients reclaim their body and restore their soul.
Leading for 20 years has taught me that culture matters. Clients can feel it when they walk through the door. Therapists thrive in it when they feel supported, valued, and empowered.
It’s not just about providing massage. It’s about providing consistent, professional, results-driven care in a welcoming, grounded environment.
Lessons from 20 Years in Business
There have been challenges, every small business owner knows that. Economic shifts, staffing changes, growth decisions, and moments where I had to step outside my comfort zone.
But those moments shaped me.
They taught me:
To think long term.
To invest in systems, not just hustle.
To prioritize sustainability over burnout.
To lead with integrity.
To serve our local community with consistency.
Being a small business owner in Salem for two decades is something I don’t take lightly. Our clients have trusted us with their health and wellness year after year. That trust is earned through professionalism, consistency, and genuine care.
Looking Ahead
Twenty years later, I’m still learning. Still growing. Still refining.
Body & Soul Massage isn’t just a place to get a massage it’s a reflection of everything I believe about therapeutic care, leadership, and community connection.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s growth happens when you’re willing to step into leadership, build strong foundations, and stay true to your mission.
And I’m incredibly grateful to continue doing that right here in Salem Massachusetts.
Thank you to DJ Turner of the Scaling Wellness Podcast for this opportunity. DJ helps massage therapists thrive and grow their businesses.
Body & Soul Massage in Salem MA is owned and operated by Salem State Alumni Ann Sousa. To learn more about Body & Soul Massage visit our website www.bodysoulsalem.com or follow along on social media at #bodysoulsalem