With balance of the mind, body and spirit as the ultimate goal, The Body Shoppe offers relaxation and healing with its line-up of massage services including the following techniques: Swedish, Aromatherapy, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone, Seated Chair, Hand & Foot, Facial and Couples massages. Dennis Varley is the owner and one of the three state-licensed massage therapists at The Body Shoppe (lisasbodyshoppe.com) .
How did you get started in the business? – I have always wanted to help people heal from aches and pains, even injuries. I went to physical therapy school for two years after high school. Then I found massage therapy and really enjoyed its healing properties so I went to The Myotherapy Institute here in Lincoln, where I graduated in 2012. I have been doing massage professionally ever since.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Just trying to get the word out about the health benefits of massage therapy.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Purchasing The Body Shoppe in July. The Body Shoppe has been open for several years now, and I worked for the company for over a year when the opportunity to purchase it came up.
Tell us a little about your family. – I have a wonderful wife that has been with me every step of the way on this journey. I have two daughters ages 12 and 7. And my parents, even though they live in Grand Island, are very supportive.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Moving to Lincoln from Grand Island.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Hanging out with my family and friends, going to all my daughters’ activities, or spending time with our horses.
What are you the most proud of? – My daughters.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – To be able to heal people with just the touch of my hand.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – A jockey winning Triple Crown races. My dream as a kid was to become a jockey.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – My wife and I have participated in the breast cancer walks here in Lincoln for about six years. My wife has participated in this walk since about 2002; her side of the family has been affected by breast cancer so it’s very personal and important to us.
What is your favorite movie? – Rudy.
What is your favorite TV show? – The Blacklist.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – The Parthenon.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Walter Payton, a famous running back who played for the Chicago Bears for 13 seasons. He had such a great work ethic and was an awesome person in his community.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – We can be reached by phone (call or text) at (402) 440-5852 or online at lisasbodyshoppe.com.