Year of Local
Laura Greaves
This is the ninth in a series of submitted stories produced by the Year of Local, a collaborative project highlighting businesses and not-for-profit organizations in Sarnia.
When Kelly Graham started Essence Reflexology, her vision was clear. She wanted to provide clients with the same benefits she had experienced from reflexology.
“I had my first reflexology treatment when I was a teenager and was impressed with the results of the treatments and how they made a difference in my life. I felt better, I slept better, and had a better sense of well-being,” she said.
In 2009, Graham received her reflexology certification from the Ontario College of Reflexology and opened Essence Reflexology. That same year, she also began studying reiki. She added reiki to her services after completing her Levels 1 and 2. In 2011 she received her Master Level Reiki certification.
When she began her business, Graham had the support and encouragement of Dr. Beth Hodgins of Corunna Chiropractic.
“Beth was a great role model to me. She is very caring to her staff and patients and was very supportive and encouraging to me to when I started my business.”
Taking her cues from Hodgins, she caters to the needs of each client and delivers services where it is most convenient for them.
“I offer personalized service whether at the client’s home or at my office. All of my clients are very important to me and I provide services based on their needs.”
Graham added yoga to her repertoire in 2012.
“ I focused my efforts on getting fit. I took a few yoga classes and fell in love,” Graham said. “It helped me really learn a lot about myself and grow as a person. I began taking yoga teacher training classes so I could pass on that love and share the joy of yoga with others.”
Graham’s yoga classes take place in her studio and class sizes are limited.
“I draw people to my yoga classes who might not feel comfortable venturing to a gym environment. All of my classes are taught in a slow flow style and incorporate gentle stretching and meditation as well. I love teaching classes to those with differing mobility.”
The most rewarding part of her business remains her connection with clients.
“Getting to know my clients over the years and helping them to feel better and be proactive in their own healthcare and wellbeing has been the best part. With the yoga classes, the most rewarding experiences are seeing my clients grow and get excited when they try a new pose and succeed.”
While her yoga studio is in Sarnia, she visits reflexology clients in Corunna, Forest, Petrolia and Watford. A full listing of classes can be found at: www.essencereflexology.com.
“All I ask is that you bring a positive attitude to my class, work to the best of your ability and by the end of the class, leave all of your daily struggles behind you.”
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