Star City Six – Victor Zweerink
5 Elements Massage & Spa (5elementsne.com) welcomes clients of all ages to come in for massage therapy treatments that are adjusted according to an individual’s specific condition, physical limitations, and personal needs. Victor Zweerink is a massage therapist at 5 Elements Massage & Spa.
Tell us a little about your business.
5 Elements, located in a new space at 6201 S 58th St., specializes in Swedish, therapeutic, pre-natal, and many more types of massages. We also have an esthetician on staff to carry out our more extensive spa packages. Massage therapy is the manipulation of the body’s soft tissues. The purpose is generally for the treatment of body stresses and pain.
How did you get started in the business?
Because I am tall, the world is not built for me. I experience pain from bending over, ducking down, etc. I wanted to learn how to relieve my pain and the pain of others who are in the same boat, so I went to Myotherapy Institute for Massage in Lincoln.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
I am a 6’5″, 300-pound male in a female dominated industry…so I’ve had to overcome some prejudice along the way. I’ve been able to gain the trust of many clients, showing them I have the skills and ethics to treat them well.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
Joining the 5 Elements team. Before Owner Erin McLenon brought me on, I had no support and was struggling to get my name out there.
Tell us a little about your family.
I am married to a wonderfully supportive wife. We have a two-year-old son together. My father has passed but my mother is still alive. I also have two older brothers and two younger sisters.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Honestly, meeting my wife and having her support to get my license.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Play video games with my kid, have some quality Dungeons & Dragons time with friends, and cook delicious food!
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Do, or do not, there is no try!” – Jedi Grandmaster Yoda
If you had a theme song, what would it be?
Well, I did walk down the aisle to “The Imperial March”, so…
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
Field energy manipulation.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Interpersonal communication skills.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?
A professional house spouse. It even has the benefit of rhyming!
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
Amtgard International—great group of folks.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
Mistborn from Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere Series.
What is your favorite movie?
The Star Wars trilogy and The Lord of the Rings.
What is your favorite TV show?
Boy Meets World (got to love Mr Feeny), Burn Notice, and a variety of comedy shows.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
AmuManu Ramen Bar.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
(402) 617-7992; 5elementsne.com.