March 14, 2017

Meet Dana Briley of Highlands Healing Hands & Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage in Midtown

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dana Briley.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Dana. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
In 1997, after a many years in corporate restaurant management, a friend suggested I should be a massage therapist. I didn’t take it too seriously at the time until she set up an appointment for me to attend an orientation at Atlanta School of Massage. I was impressed! I went to work the next day and gave my notice. I started school shortly after. I have now been a full time massage therapist for more than 18 yrs. I have had an exciting and fulfilling career. I started out working with a group of therapist that covered most of the big luxury hotels. (Back before they had spas) I met people from all over the world. Some who still call me today. I worked on many famous celebrities and athletes. I even did massage on former President George H. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush.

These days I have an office with a chiropractor Dr. Danielle Drobbin at Midtown Family Wellness. I still make occasional out calls to some of the luxury hotels and clients homes. I often work on location with the growing film industry here in ATL. And have done massage back stage for some of the performers at Phillips Arena, Chastain Park and the Tabernacle over the years I have certified in many different types of massage. Some of my favorite modalities to do are Shiatsu, Thai and Ashiatsu Barefoot bar massage. When someone comes to me I take the time to find out their needs so I can design a personalized massage just for them. I love being a massage therapist and plan on continuing for many years to come.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I think every business has their ups and downs. Any business owner can never take it for granted. It’s always a hustle to keep business going. Especially when the economy in down. People seem to cut things like massage out when there are financial concerns. But when things improve, they come back.

We’d love to hear more about your business.
My “Motto” is simple “Massage should be Therapeutic & also Feel Good”

I give every massage with the intent of giving my client the massage they want.

I’m very skilled in the art and science of massage and have given over 18,000 of them to date.

My success with my business has been due to my flexibility and my eagerness to please.
I have also spent a lot of time and money learning many different types of massage.

I’m certified in Neuromuscular, Clinical Sports, Deep Tissue, Thai, Shiatsu, Lomi Lomi, Ashiatsu Barefoot massage. I offer Prenatal, Cupping, Aromatherapy, Rain Drop treatments and can offer spa treatment upon request.
I specialize in Ashiatsu Barefoot massage.” It’s the deepest most luxurious massage on the planet”

It’s an ancient Japanese form of massage. I have bars above my table so I can I pick up my weight and use my feet like hands. It’s amazing!

But I believe in taking the time to find out what my clients wants and needs are, so I can give them the massage they want. It’s a personalized massage.

What were you like growing up?
I was even a caretaker in my childhood. I would sit on the floor in front of my grandmother and rub her feet and legs. You would also get me to rub her back. I don’t know how good I was back then, but it always made her happy.

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