breathmovementspirit@gmail.com
Why did you choose Spring Creek for part of your practice?
When I first moved to Spring Creek everyone kept telling me, ‘You have to meet Toni, she’s a massage therapist too!’ At that point, the Alternative Medicine Co-op was full, so I started my practice in downtown Hot Springs instead. After Helene, I found myself starting all over again after losing my equipment and space. Coincidentally, Toni announced her retirement, and it all came together perfectly. The SCCC is a special building, and I look forward to caring for the very special people that come through our doors. I’ll be welcoming and caring for everyone that I can, including local residents and visitors that pass through.
What does community mean to you?
Community is knowing that we are not alone. We are all on this earth to give love and receive love. I have learned to ask for help in Spring Creek. And, it feels great when I can offer support back. This is a place for people to be seen and heard when they want, and to have solitude when that is needed. It’s a beautiful thing.
How did you get into the work you do?
After 20+ years in the hospitality industry, it was time for me to re-evaluate my values and unique gifts to share in this world. In 2022 I received some clear guidance that caring for people was my calling. Specifically, I found myself to have unique gifts that helped people feel loved, present, and at ease physically & mentally. I graduated from the Western NC School of Massage in Summer of 2023, and then opened my private practice in the Fall. Since then it has felt like a ‘dream come true’. I remember feeling the joy and surprise of truly enjoying going to work and saying “I can’t believe I am getting paid to love people!”. It is a blessing.
How long have you been in your industry?
Technically I have been a licensed massage therapist since Fall of 2023, and have worked with over 500 clients over the past couple of years. However, I was fascinated by the art of massage since 
I was a child and would support my mother with my little loving hands.
Do you live in Spring Creek?
Yes, Keith and I live up West Road, just off of 209. We’ve lived in Western NC for the past 12 years. In 2022 we knew it was time to settle somewhere peaceful and reconnect with nature.
What do you love most about Spring Creek? Oh, that’s easy. The people. Genuine, caring, and committed. The friendly support has been tremendously meaningful during some tough life transitions over the past couple of years. There is nowhere else I’d rather be.
Do you have any pets? Yes! Dakota & Irving. Dakota is a playful and snuggly cat that knows she is spoiled rotten. And Irving likes to wander around the land with Keith, and sometimes sneak away to play with the other neighbor dogs. They love Spring Creek too!
Is there anything unique about you that you would like to share with the Spring Creek community? Well, if there is music and a dance floor, that’s where you’ll most likely see me. My grandmother is Hispanic and I grew surrounded by music, dancing and food. And, I love to listen and learn about people. I can’t wait to hear more stories from my SC neighbors.