04 JUL 2020 My name is Ayanna. I’m from London, born and raised in the heart of Waterloo. I’m now a freelance massage therapist, putting my focus into my business, Birchwood Body, a service that provides private at-home treatments to women only. Specialising in deep tissue, classic Swedish, holistic massage and body treatments. I also provide on-site shiatsu seated chair massage for corporate offices and events.

I come from a dance background; it was my dream to be a professional dancer. However I ventured out of the industry, as the pressures were disruptive to my mental/physical health, and I was struggling with an eating disorder. I found massage as a hobby to find body acceptance, awareness and confidence in self. From there, I decided to take a massage intensive course, allowing me to become a fully qualified practitioner.

Before Covid, I worked as a freelancer under many companies and agencies. I wasn’t as invested in myself as an independent business, nor did I have the confidence of solely relying on myself. When the lockdown occurred, it opened my eyes to the lack of control I have over my own career, as I was no longer able to perform massage treatments and the bookings I received from agencies were all cancelled.

It was definitely a shock to the system, I felt lost and hopeless, as it was all out of my control. I contemplated giving up this line of work and career (extremely melodramatic of me); however, after talking with my sister, she assured me I wasn’t alone—it’s a global pandemic!

I was encouraged to focus on building Birchwood Body’s brand with the time I’d now have on my hands, building connections, adapting to my audience and focusing on its ethos (women empowerment, body awareness, mental and physical wellbeing from massage with a holistic approach). Therefore when returning back to work, I’d have my control back and confidence in something I’m passionate and proud of. That’s what has made this an exciting experience and a journey in development.

The BLM movement couldn’t have come at a better time and it’s been long overdue. Building that recognition as a Black-owned business, taking a stand whilst also reminding people to take care of our mental and physical health was also of huge importance to me, as this time has been incredibly troubling for many.

I’m living at home with my mum and sisters. I believe you’ll also learn more about the people you love when forced to be in the same space. I feel it’s been easygoing, as long as everyone respects personal space. We own a family business, Sista Barista Cafe, which is run by my aunt, sister and mum; therefore I spend a lot of time home alone. Although I can be needy and love being around people and my family, they really are my biggest support system.

Independent businesses, Black-owned businesses, women and my family inspire me. I’ve learned so much in terms of how people adapt to climate changes to make a living and to keep going. The importance of community that encourages and supports, instilling more confidence in my own business and work.

I genuinely believe that the people I’m surrounded by and that are attracted into my life, care, support and are certainly interested, that will also drive me to have purpose in massage and to give back into the community, whilst sharing my knowledge in my field of health and wellness. I really was surprised by the feedback and engagement and support from my Instagram posts.

The new normal! Fresh minds, new knowledge and yearning to become the best we can be in terms of supporting one another where needed. I’m excited to see where business will take me, and more importantly I’m looking forward to getting back in touch with new clients, old clients, being in that journey of emphasising body awareness. Physical connection and therapeutic touch is intrinsic, and I believe more people will be open to receiving massage as a necessity, due to the lack of human connection through lockdown.

To share and support @birchwoodbody Instagram page, as I’m in the process of building a website. If you have any enquiries, please feel free to email: birchwoodbody@gmail.com or DM me on Instagram. If you know anyone that would be interested in massage, referrals are always welcomed. Feedback and reviews are admirable. Hopefully I can build and connect with new regular clients.