Massage therapy studio opens in Eastern Market, features service industry specials and more

A new business has opened in Eastern Market, one that hopes to take massage therapy and bodywork out of the expensive spas and parlors and into the community.

Fiona Maier believes that everyone should have access to massage therapy. That’s why she’s opened Fauna Holistic, a massage spa that aims to keep rates affordable. Fauna offers meditative restoration, deep tissue, and therapeutic massage.

Maier says she’s thrilled to be joining the Eastern Market community.

"I was raised by a carpenter father and a mother who worked odd jobs and is now a librarian. I believe everyone should have access to massage," she says.

"Fauna Holistic is geared toward working-class individuals. I really want to reach out to restaurant workers, many of whom I know personally and are sorely in need of bodywork. I also really want to get away from the expensive, luxury spa stereotype and provide an alternative space for everyone in need of massage services."

Maier’s own rates start at $45 for a 30-minute massage, for instance, and Fauna Holistic offers a number of discounts. There are first-time client specials and group packages.

There is also Service Industry Monday. Members of the service industry, with proof of pay stub, have access to discounted massage sessions, ranging from 15 minutes for $20 to 80 minutes for $90.

A licensed massage therapist and practicing professionally since 2011, Maier was inspired by her own experiences to offer massage therapists a place to work in a cooperative setting with affordable rates, too.

"Having struggled to make ends meet in the industry myself, I want to empower therapists in their own practice, allowing them to have a better sense of autonomy," Maier says.

Fauna Holistic is located at 1337 Division St. in Detroit.

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MJ Galbraith is Model D's development news editor. Follow him on Twitter @mikegalbraith.