MEET OUR MEMBERS

Karen Yanco, LMT of Karina Yanku, Inc. Healing Arts is inspired by Lady Gaga for celebrating her “Divine Weirdness”!

Business Name
Karina Yanku, Inc. Healing Arts

Business Description
Licensed Massage Therapy, Sound, Color and Vibration Therapy

Start Date
1997

Best thing about working for yourself?
I set my own hours, and make all the rules.

Worst thing about working for yourself?
Economically, it’s all over the place.  And I sometimes have to schlep my massage table in nasty weather.

Why did you start your business?
Back in the day, when I worked in spas and hospitals, I was on a pretty strict schedule which didn’t allow for much time beyond the actual massage session.  And if my client arrived late, it would often cut into their table time – and there was nothing I could do about it.  In my private practice, I have more control of my scheduling.  I usually leave an extra 20-30 minutes between sessions to allow for a more thorough
intake prior to your massage.  It also leaves you more time to come “back to Earth” after your massage, and not feel so rushed.

When did you start to think of yourself as an entrepreneur?
Just recently, actually.

How do you relax?
Sleeping, reading, listening to music, meditating and massage.

What is something that you are known for?
My quick wit and sense of humor, my singing voice, and my hands.

What 5 things would you never like to be without?
Family and friends, music, sunshine, water and my health.

What’s a business that you think is interesting or inspiring?
Back in the day, I worked for a small, funky little Soho spa called Bliss. Marcia Kilgore, the original owner, started the biz from her apartment in the mid-90s and as most of you know, in just a few short years, the business exploded into a franchise. Obviously, a lot of it had to do with her skill-set, connections and personality, but also trusting the Universe and knowing how to ask for help really helped propel her to great heights.

Who is a person that inspires you?
Oh wow – so many. Mother Teresa for her sacrifice and charity work, Maya Angelou for her wisdom and words, Oprah Winfrey for her courage and savvy, Lady Gaga for celebrating her “Divine Weirdness”!