Meet Cherelle Garcia | Licensed Massage Therapist

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

Hi Cherelle, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Thinking back, starting my own business wasn’t something I had originally planned or even considered as a career goal. In massage therapy school, we were constantly told that we should work for others first—to gain experience, build clientele, and get our footing. So, that’s what I assumed I’d do. The idea of starting a business fresh out of school felt totally out of reach.

But I was lucky. I had a mentor who saw something in me and gently pushed me toward entrepreneurship. They helped me believe that it wasn’t impossible—that I could create something of my own, even early in my career. So while still working full-time at the job I’d been at for 8 years, I slowly built my massage practice on the side. After about 6 months of part-time work, I was able to leave that job and step into massage therapy full time.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business was born out of a desire to build a career that combined passion, purpose, and flexibility. I was craving work that felt meaningful—where I could truly help people and enjoy what I was doing every day. But it wasn’t just about owning a business. For me, it was about creating a space that felt aligned with my values, where healing was more than just physical—it was holistic, intentional, and personal.

Over the years, I’ve navigated my own mental health challenges and chronic physical pain, and those experiences have completely shaped the way I approach bodywork. I understand what it’s like to feel disconnected from your body, overwhelmed by burnout, or frustrated by persistent pain. That insight has become the foundation of how I show up for my clients—through a lens of compassion, trauma-awareness, and self-care that goes far deeper than surface-level relaxation.

What sets my work apart is the intention behind it. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all massage. Every session is customized and results-driven, focusing on real outcomes like pain relief, nervous system regulation, and reconnecting clients with their bodies. My studio is a space where people can exhale, be fully seen, and feel empowered to prioritize themselves.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that success isn’t just about hustle—it’s about sustainability. Taking care of myself is what allows me to take care of others.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know about my brand, it’s this: it’s rooted in lived experience. I’ve walked the road of healing myself, and I bring that empathy into every aspect of my work. Intrinsic Wellness Massage & Bodywork is about more than massage—it’s about reclaiming your body, restoring your energy, and remembering that you are worthy of deep, lasting care.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the perfect mix of Colorado chill, good food, and beautiful scenery—plus some self-care, of course!

We’d start one of our days with brunch at Snooze or First Watch to fuel up, then spend the afternoon strolling through Olde Town Arvada for some shopping and people-watching. For dinner, we’d check out one of the many great restaurants in the area—there’s no shortage of cozy spots with great food and local flavor.

I’d definitely take them to Red Rocks—whether it’s just for the iconic views or to catch a concert under the stars. We’d also make time for a grounding walk along Bear Creek in Morrison, one of my favorite nature spots to unwind and reconnect.

And of course, I’d treat them to a massage at my studio—because no trip is complete without a little therapeutic bodywork and intentional self-care.

Denver’s beauty is in its balance—you can explore art, nature, and amazing food all in one day. There’s a real energy of wellness and authenticity here, and I love showing people the slower, more nourishing side of the city.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
No one builds something meaningful entirely alone, and I’m deeply grateful for the people who’ve supported me along the way. I owe so much of my success to my loyal clients—many of whom have been with me since the very beginning of my career. Their trust, vulnerability, and commitment to their own healing continue to inspire me. They’re the reason I do what I do.

I also want to recognize my mentor-turned-friend who encouraged me to start my business right out of massage school. Without their guidance and belief in me, I probably wouldn’t have taken that leap as early as I did.

I’m incredibly thankful for my close friends and family who have stood by me, especially through seasons of burnout, self-doubt, and health challenges. And honestly, I have to give credit to therapy as well. Being in consistent therapy for the past few years has helped me develop the tools to compartmentalize, set boundaries, and create a healthier balance between my personal and professional life—which has been absolutely essential to my growth and success.

Website: https://www.intrinsicwellnessmassage.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intrinsicwellnessmassage

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/intrinsicwellnessmassage

Image Credits
Madison Allena Photography