Meet Hannah White | Apothecarist & Massage Therapist

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

Hi Hannah, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Ah, balance. Allusive at times, but oh so necessary! My work life balance has changed throughout the years as a business owner, with times of growth demanding more attention, and times of stability redefining what I’m capable of. When I first decided to open my own massage practice, I was working as a physical therapy assistant, commuting an hour each day, then spending my evenings and weekends massaging and all the little things that come with building a business. Not long into that routine, I decided I needed one more thing on my plate and began an online nutritional program. It was a lot to juggle, but the extra work nourished my mind and soul, so it was worth it. And then life made other plans for me. Just three months into this venture, I experienced a brain injury that took me down for a solid month. I was unable to walk without excruciating pain. Even bending over the sink to wash my face would make me nauseous, lose my sight and sense of stability. Life felt anything but balanced. I was forced to rest and reevaluate everything. Fortunately, I had a lot of knowledge to draw from and found relief through cups of tea and mind+body practices. My nutritional education led me to herbs and the power they held. It was a total gift to be able to soothe my nervous system through such a simple, gentle thing! This time to heal brought a great renewal, my life was beginning to feel more balanced, once again.
Fast forward a bit and I was finally able to leave my job at the clinic and be fully devoted to my business. With this strengthened appreciation and understanding of holistic wellness, I felt so inspired and motivated to share it all with my community. Making the next leap to open an apothecary felt like a whole new level of juggling, made easy because of the heart that was in it. Long nights spent writing, painting and organizing, the never-ending to-do lists, overwhelming and full of joy. Our grand opening felt like a breath of fresh air. I could rest again, at peace knowing that my mission to serve others has expanded.
I’ve been running my massage practice for three and a half years now, with the one year anniversary of Wildmoon Alchemy coming up in May. The balance I feel now continues to be a bit of a dance, as the work never stops. It is grounding and heart-centered though, so I never feel burdened. Fortunate for the support that has come through this work. I am able to unplug when I need to, taking the time to enjoy nature, be with loved ones, create. It is through these quiet moments, however often they come around, that I am able to rest and recharge, renewed for the growth ahead.
I consider myself lucky to be able to bring balance to people’s lives through massage and a cup of tea!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve always said that body work feels like sculpting clay. The result is a relaxed body and a renewed spirit, with fewer knots in its shoulders. It’s a beautiful meditation practice, for both me and the one receiving! Creating things for the apothecary has a similar effect; no matter what I’m putting together, there’s a certain level of flow to it that is so soothing. Everything in there is an expression of myself and of our community. Nothing is made in a big factory. A lot of thought and effort goes into all of it. One of my favorite parts about building up the apothecary has been building the relationships with other creatives and entrepreneurs. To learn their stories and support their passions is so exciting and humbling. Success is a group effort. I can’t do all of this myself! I am so grateful for all of the hands that have lifted me up and carried me through life’s challenges, whether that’s professionally or personally. Uplifting one another is what makes life so sweet, and bringing that into my work is truly what it’s all about.

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.
When I first came to Colorado, I was living in a van and finding every twisty mountain road and trail possible. I love a good adventure! Rampart Range still holds a special place in my heart, especially since it’s so close to Castle Rock, so we definitely have to go there. We can grab food from Cuba Cuba on the way home! Hiking to Chicago Lakes near Idaho Springs is also a must. I love visiting the small mountain towns, wandering through the little shops and finding the local dives. Perfect way to cool down after a hike. If I’m in the city, we’re definitely going to City O’ City and checking out all the murals in RiNo. If there’s live music or a show that we can catch, even better. There’s so much to do around here, I will never stop exploring!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My community is such a gift! First and foremost, a big thanks to my parents for always supporting me in my dreams, even when I was 10 years old, playing the Titanic soundtrack as I massaged their shoulders. They cheered me on all through school, and offered endless encouragement as I made advances in my career. I also hold an immense amount of gratitude for Tess, owner of True Appearances, who I share space with in massage. Our instant connection and friendship has been a foundation in how I do business and give back to the community. My friends and loved ones that helped build the apothecary, listening to me as I fretted about where to put shelves, are all so appreciated. And of course, my clients and all those that come into the shop on a regular basis are the real stars. Without their trust and support, I would not be where I am today. We’re all in this together and what a beautiful thing that is.

Website: wildmoonliving.com

Instagram: wildmoon.alchemy

Image Credits:
Scott Minshall of 10Slim Productions
eleven17 photography