Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alessandra De Oliveira, owner of Laya Spa & Yoga, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

We are a wellness space and sanctuary in Toronto offering massage and healing treatments to nourish wellness in the body. We have a wide range of clients of all ages and attract those who seek a deeper connection to their body and overall wellness.

Tell us about yourself

I started working in the spa and wellness environment in my 20' as an esthetician when I was introduced to essential oils and the healing power of natural plant extracts. I then made it my mission to apply natural healing modalities to all of my treatments. I became interested in how we can channel our own wellness by resourcing nature and the power of our own internal mechanisms with meditation, movement, breathwork, and self-care. I continue to explore modalities that can be integrated within the space that is general and sustainable for the body long term.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I think that success is measured differently by all people. For me, it's the results of people's calm nervous system and how they feel when they are in space. The feedback we always receive is that people when they come in, feel like they are not in the city. I have worked hard to create that environment for people so that the space can also be a part of their healing and wellness journey.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

I think owning a business is always challenging as there are many moving parts and layers that need to be juggled at all times. It gets easier with time. After ten years, I have learned that letting go is the best way to stay present and calm in my nervous system. We are a space of many different personalities and ideas; supporting those ideas, hearing people, and opening to new ways of doing things while allowing people freedom in their working environment has been one of the best ways of creating a space where everyone feels included and heard. So letting go, while it's hard, has paid off tremendously.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Don't let your emotions dictate your decisions.
  2. Don't take it personally.
  3. Do your internal work so that you can encourage other people to as well (practice what you preach).

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Owning a small business is not for the faint of heart, but taking care of people and noticing the subtle change in their process makes it all worth it. 💓

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.layaspaandyoga.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/layaspaandyoga/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/layaspayoga/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/layaspaandyoga

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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