By By ERIKA PICKLES / Niles Daily Star
NILES -Everyone could use a good massage from time to time – after a long, stressful week, before a big event such as a wedding or vacation, to loosen up tight muscles – whatever the case, everyone deserves to be pampered every once in a while.
That's where Eugina Apawu comes in.
Apawu's business, Beauty and Body Wellness, offers therapeutic massages, holistic therapies and salon services that allows her clients to experience a unique touch.
Located at 1011 Broadway Street, Suite 8, Apawu offers a number of different relaxing services, including a deep tissue massage, a relaxation and stress massage and even a heated river rocks massage.
"That one is really popular," Apawu said of the heated rocks, which are exactly what they sound. Warm rocks are placed on problem areas and help to loosen up tight and sore muscles.
Massages are also available for pregnant women, as well as infants and children. Prices vary on different services and can range anywhere from $25 to $300, depending on what you have done. However, Apawu said all services are affordable, regardless of the prices.
If you're looking to sooth aches, improve dry skin and help circulation, try one of the paraffin treatments, which focuses on hands, feet and elbows.
Apawu also offers packages for those looking for the full treatment as well as massage parties for events such as bridal showers and bachelor's parties.
Unable to leave your home? That's not a problem. Apawu offers house calls for massages and spa treatments, such as facials, manicures and pedicures.
"I do a lot of house calls. People like that they do not have to leave their home," Apawu said.
Discounts are also available for seniors, students and service men and women.
"I appreciate what my clients say about me, that is why I started a scrapbook to allow people to write down something about their experience with me," she said.
Apawu opened her business in Niles in August, 2007. She got a lot of recognition from at the Niles French Market, where she was often seen giving sample massages.
"People liked that. They were a little surprised I think," she said.
While Apawu loves what she does, she is the first to admit it wasn't easy to get where she is today.
"It has been a hard road. I have had many experiences that left me wondering 'what's next for me?' It was hard at times," she said.
Apawu has worked for different chiropractors and spas, but none of them ever seemed to work out.
"It was crazy. I had never experienced what I went through with some of the companies. That's why I was so happy when I was approached about opening up this business," she said.
Despite the bumps in between, Apawu has found a way to succeed.
"This is what the Lord wants me to do. He wants me to help make people feel better and that is what I hope to do," she added.
Beauty and Body Wellness is open Tuesday through Saturday by appointment only.Call 269-845-2261 for information about the services..