For three years, Stephanie Jinx Liggett has been promoting

the idea of attaining balance in life through wellness at Danielle Spa for

Beauty & Wellness in Bonita Springs. Liggett’s 12,000-square-foot,

full-service day spa (named after her daughter) employs up to 65 in season. But

its soothing services are sought year-round by business professionals.

How does wellness differ from simply being physically fit

and eating well?

Eating the right foods and exercising is important. But

massage gets into areas where exercise cannot. People who exercise generally

are more conscientious about taking care of their bodies with massage, facials,

manicures and pedicures. A healthy maintenance program that includes hair, skin

and body care translates into an overall sense of well-being and an optimistic

outlook on life.

How can business professionals deal with stress?

It has been medically proven that massage can reduce stress

by releasing the tension that is stored in the body. It increases circulation

and blood flow, and flushes the body of toxins. That’s why some young

professionals have standing appointments with us.

To stay young and alive in work and socially, you have to be

mobile and focused. A body full of tension and stress cannot cope successfully.

Do you think the way a person looks can affect his or her

career?

Absolutely. If you feel good about yourself, you will exude

self-confidence and people will perceive you as successful. I am not saying

that a person has to be beautiful. Wellness is taking care of yourself so that

you feel good.

How has the spa industry changed over the years?

There was a time when beauty and body services were thought

of as luxuries, and people visited spas merely to pamper themselves. That is no

longer true. When I was working in the hospital administration field, I

traveled frequently between Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles. I made it a

point to stop into day spas. That was the way I took care of myself.

Do you consider this area a competitive spa market?

Yes, but I don’t see that as a problem. Competition keeps

our staff working harder, and a competitive environment means people are more

educated and informed about the value of spa services. We can distinguish ourselves

from the competition. This is not a destination spa; you do not have to be on

vacation to come here. We have people who come in every single week.