Meet Emily Nelson

We had the good fortune of connecting with Emily Nelson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Emily, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I was born and raised in Florence, SC. I get asked a lot about how long I have been doing massage, and I jokingly tell them “I’ve been doing massage all my life”. But, it’s not far from the truth. My mother taught me, from a young age, the value of physical touch and how it can be an expression of Love from one person to another. We would often trade back rubs or foot rubs while watching television in the evenings. It was a way for us to connect, bond, and opened up an avenue for communication. Over the years, as I would massage a friend’s or loved one’s shoulders or neck, I would watch them visibly relax and the tension would just melt away. I realized that people need that connection with another human. They need a safe space to let their guard down, and release that tension in their bodies, and calm their minds. Becoming a licensed massage therapist has given me the ability and opportunity to offer people that space and time to allow their bodies to return to a balanced and relaxed state. I am passionate about helping others find relaxation and relief from the daily stresses of life.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Massage therapy is a second career for me. I was employed with the U.S. Department of Agriculture for 21 years and enjoyed working with farmers and agricultural producers, helping them put conservation practices on their farmland. However, my heart had been tugging me in the direction of the health/wellness field for years, and finally I decided that I wanted to be a massage therapist. I went to school at night while still working full time during the day. I got licensed and worked part time at a spa on the weekends just to be sure this was what my heart was longing for. I absolutely loved it! I loved every aspect of being in the massage business. I decided that I wanted to go into business for myself, and so I walked away from the stability of a government job, into the excitement and joy of owning my own business. I can honestly say that this has been the best decision of my life. I have learned along the way to trust my heart, and my instincts. If something feels right, and brings you joy, then do it! Don’t wait. Was it easy for me? Actually, yes. I have been so blessed with being in an amazing location, having fantastic clients whom I love and appreciate, and every day I am so excited to be able to share my passion with others. Along with the massage, I also offer sound healing sessions. I use tuning forks, crystal singing bowls, and I even do drumming with clients. It’s been so rewarding seeing the transformation of my clients when they receive any type of sound healing session. The main lesson that I have learned in all of this, is to “follow your bliss”. As cliché as it sounds, it truly is what I strive to live by. I absolutely love what I do, and I pour that love into each session with each client.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
There are so many wonderful places to eat in Spartanburg, but I would have to say that my favorites are The Flock Shop, Initial Q, Willie Taco, and Chef Ae’s. I love that Spartanburg has so many trails within the city, my favorite being the Cottonwood Trail! I have recently rediscovered my love of roller skating! I really enjoy going to Hot Wheels Skating Center for the adult skate nights!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I started my journey with massage back in 2006 when I started getting regular chiropractor adjustments and massages. From that point on, every step of the way, and every person I have met over the years has led me to where I am today. My parents always encouraged me to follow my heart and my dreams but, sadly, they both passed away before they could see me realize this dream. When I decided that I wanted to do massage full time, I received so much love, encouragement and support from my friends. Their belief in me was, and still is, contagious, and they helped me believe in myself, and my ability to succeed. Dr.’s Kayla and Anthony Abeid gave me a safe place to land, once I left my old job, which has been amazing! Their faith in me, and encouragement never waivered, and for that, I will always be grateful. And last, but certainly not least, I really wouldn’t be able to do any of this without the support and love from my wonderful husband. He is truly the reason that I was able to realize this dream into fruition. I am so incredibly grateful and appreciative to everyone who has loved and supported me on this journey.

Website: mysticmoonmassage.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mysticmooncat 

Image Credits
All pictures were taken by me, or with my phone camera.