We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa Smilow and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melissa, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I never really had a “normal” job, I wasn’t drawn to the 9 to 5 lifestyle. I was a performer for many years, became a Pilates instructor, then Nutritional Therapist and a Reiki Master. So I’ve always been highly creative and empathetic, my passions and life experiences are what pushed me into my now career as a Nutritional and Energy Healer. I’ve worked as an employee before but it never really felt like me…so about 7 years ago I decided to start my own business and I absolutely LOVE what I do and how I get to support my soul clients. Working for myself just feels right and I can’t imagine not having my own business and the freedom that comes with it.

What should our readers know about your business?
My business has gone through an evolution of sorts, when I first started I was just offering Nutritional Therapy and Reiki Sessions. It has now evolved into offering Intuitive Nutrition Sessions, a 6 month Healing Journey Program for Individuals and Couples, Reiki Workshops & Certifications as well as hosting an upcoming Spiritual Retreat in Glastonbury, England. It hasn’t always been easy, many ups and downs, sometimes feeling like I don’t know what I’m doing but I’m going to do it anyway lol. Which has led to so many new opportunities and magical moments. I’ve learned to trust deeply in my intuition, it guides me in my life path and also helps me support my soul clients. So much of how I help clients is based on my story and going through similar struggles. What I always remind them of is that we create our own story…we are never truly stuck, we just need the spiritual and holistic tools to become a magnet for all we desire.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Santa Barbara is a really amazing vaca spot for L.A. locals since it’s so close! Because I’m a Nutritional Healer I gravitate towards clean/organic food, so that being said my favorite restaurants are: Scarlet Begonia, Green Table, Loquita and Savoy. For stunning views of the water Deep Sea Winery and Reunion Kitchen. I love East Beach and Butterfly Beach to hang out, the beach is so energetically purifying. For spiritual items or gifts I go Paradise Found or Pura Luna Apothecary, 2 of the best shops in town.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to Tamra Lamese, a close friend who is also an amazing Coach, Speaker, Writer and Activist. She has supported my business in too many ways to count and is so inspirational to me.

Website: www.melissasmilow.com

Instagram: @melissasmilow

Facebook: Facebook.com/melissasmilow

Other: TikTok @melissasmilow

Image Credits
Briana Diamond

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.