Farewell Message

This Year, I Need Your Support More Than Ever

​

On December 19th, 2024, an email went out detailing the upcoming year for Massage is Life. That day marked the beginning of the final 365 days of Massage is Life in its current form. On December 19, 2025, I will officially transition to serving only my regular clients. This decision has been a long time coming—one I’ve struggled with for far too long—but after much thought and prayer, I know this is the right path forward.

​

That is one of the hardest messages I’ve ever had to write, but it’s also one of the most honest. Since fully reopening Massage is Life in 2021 after the pandemic shutdowns—and my personal shutdown in 2020 following the devastating loss of my daughter—things have never fully bounced back. (Yes, it’s been nearly five years of this.) Despite all the effort I’ve poured into this business, it has only become harder to sustain, and I want to share the reality of what this journey has looked like for me.

​​

When I started Massage is Life, I poured my heart and soul into it—my passion, my energy, and my dreams. Quite literally, it was built on blood, sweat, and tears. Without loans or handouts, I relied on my determination as a single mother to create something meaningful and sustainable. But running a business is so much more than the hours spent with clients. Behind the scenes, there are endless tasks—planning, marketing, scheduling, and constantly updating policies to protect my income. It’s exhausting. From clients disputing charges after services to late cancellations and no-shows, I’ve had to implement prepayment policies and other measures just to stay afloat. I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but running a business is a monumental task.

​​

Since the pandemic, bookings have been inconsistent, and income unpredictable. I’ve done everything I could to make it work—gig work, per diem jobs, and working tirelessly—but being in constant survival mode for years has taken a toll on me mentally, emotionally, and physically. There are weeks without a single new booking, which is both discouraging and financially stressful. Many weeks, the tips left by generous clients are what allow me to buy gas and groceries. (Even though tips are optional, you can’t imagine how greatly they are appreciated.) Even gift card sales—normally a bright spot during the holidays—have significantly declined. This past holiday season, I’ve sold only 11 gift certificates compared to the usual 35-40. With bookings and sales down for years now, it’s clear that transitioning out of full-time practice is the best decision for me.

​​

As a single mother who began this mom journey at 20 years old, I’ve worked hard to ensure my son and I were taken care of. Statistically, I wasn’t supposed to accomplish what I have, but I never gave up or gave in to the cards I was dealt. The stress of not making ends meet—struggling to pay bills, dealing with shut-off notices, and having no breathing room—has left me drained. This stress hasn’t just affected my business; it’s affected my health. Managing PCOS is hard enough with all the changes my body goes through, but I’ve also battled ongoing kidney issues for years, including frequent and painful kidney stones ( I actually had 2 kidney stones when I wrote this in December). Many days, my clients have no idea the pain I am in while I show up to serve them. The constant stress has even caused me to lose my hair—my crown. It’s emotionally and physically exhausting to keep going.

​​​

But what’s more important than keeping this business alive is focusing on making my life thrive again. It’s time to step off this struggle bus and into a more sustainable future.

​​

Life is Life’n, and It’s Time to Pivot

I know times have changed for so many of us. The world looks different, and with change comes the need to adapt. As life continues to “life” for so many of us, I’ve come to realize that I, too, need to pivot.

​

Change isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary for growth. This year, I’m embracing this shift with open arms, stepping into what’s next while staying grounded in gratitude for everything this journey has taught me.

​

The truth is, I’ve been fighting against this decision for a long time. However, after the pandemic, my business never fully recovered in terms of consistent bookings or financial stability. It’s been emotionally, mentally, and physically draining. I’ve worked so hard to try to rebuild, but I’m tired of constantly being in survival mode.

​​

As I approach my 40th birthday, I’ve realized I don’t want to spend another 4-5 years struggling to turn things around. I want to get back to traveling, doing the things I love, and living a full and thriving life again—because I WORK HARD and deserve that.

​

To everyone navigating your own changes, know you’re not alone. Life keeps moving, and we keep finding ways to move with it. Thank you for being a part of my journey as I adjust and embrace the new path ahead.

​​

What This Transition Will Look Like

• Starting January 5th, 2026, I will transition to a very limited schedule, focusing on serving my regular clients who have consistently booked monthly, as well as accommodating those with unredeemed gift certificates. I will also maintain my office space, which serves as the home for my nonprofit, Jordyn’s Light, Inc. One of the nonprofit’s key programs provides grief massage services for mothers coping with pregnancy and infant loss. Continuing to serve my regular clients will ensure the operational expenses of the office are covered, allowing the nonprofit's funds to remain fully dedicated to its mission. While I’m stepping back, I’m not fully letting go of the passion and hard work I’ve poured into my business. This transition allows me to continue doing what I love in a way that works better for me.

​

• While the reason behind my nonprofit is rooted in sadness, I am eager to dedicate more time to its mission. Jordyn’s Light provides much-needed support to the community for those coping with pregnancy and infant loss, and I am committed to expanding its reach and impact in this critical area while keeping my daughters memory alive.​​​​

​

• I currently have approximately 12 regular clients who book on a monthly basis, and I am committed to continuing to serve them. By 2026, I plan to expand my availability to accommodate up to 20 regular monthly clients. If you'd like to join this group, you can secure your spot by booking consistently each month in 2025

​

• Packages have been removed from the website but can still be purchased in-office or by request until June 2025 for 6 packs only. After that, sessions will be paid for individually.

​

• Gift cards will no longer be sold after December 31, 2024. I encourage recipients to use them within the next year.

​

• Services like corporate wellness events and Massage is Life Parties have been removed from the website, and daily deals have been discontinued as they really weren’t booking..

​​

• By December 2025, I will transition to Square Appointments to reduce operational expenses.

​​

• In January 2026, My hours will adjust to align with the needs of my regular clients and new endeavors

​​

• During this time, I will be taking certification courses for phlebotomy and sterile processing to prepare for a new career path, which may result in occasional adjustments to my hours and availability. I will also be working outside of Massage is Life to sustain financially. 

​

• This farewell year is my chance to serve my clients fully while preparing for a more sustainable chapter.

​

Why I’m Transitioning to Regular Clients Only

• Focusing on regular clients allows me to streamline operations, reduce unnecessary stress, and maintain a consistent income and schedule. This transition also provides me with the opportunity to dedicate more time to my health, my family, and Jordyn’s Light—my nonprofit that honors my daughter’s memory.

​

• By narrowing my focus, I can also simplify my operations, eliminating the need to maintain a full website and active social media presence.

​

• I am considering creating a group designed for clients who visit approximately six times a year but do not book on a consistent monthly basis. This group would provide an opportunity to share any openings that may become available due to late cancellations or when one of my regular clients—who typically book monthly—needs to miss a session due to emergencies, travel, or other circumstances.

  • While these openings may be limited and infrequent, this group would offer non-regular clients the chance to secure an appointment. Participation in this group would be by invitation only, and you would need to opt in to join. Please note, however, that if you have unsubscribed from Massage Is Life emails, you will not receive an invitation.

​

Yes, this is heartbreaking, but I’m not sad—if that makes sense. I just want to find joy in life again, and that’s what matters most as I move forward.

​

I’ll continue taking all clients through December 19, 2025, before transitioning to serve my regulars exclusively starting January 5, 2026. I would love the opportunity to see those I’ve served over the years, whether it’s for one final visit or a few appointments throughout 2025. Your support during this time means so much to me as I navigate this transition as it always did.

​

As I transition, I ask for your kindness, understanding, and support now more than ever. This isn’t goodbye—it’s the beginning of a new season where I can focus on what truly matters.

​

On November 21st, 2025, Massage Is Life will celebrate its 8th anniversary. In the Bible, the number 8 represents new beginnings, symbolizing the next chapter in this journey.

​

To everyone who has supported Massage is Life by booking services, sending referrals, or offering kind words—thank you from the bottom of my heart. This business exists because of you, and I’m deeply grateful for every moment we’ve shared.

​

With love and gratitude,
Angela Jessie
Massage is Life, LLC