Soothing Hands: Where Therapeutic Healing Meets Artistic Expression

A Decade of Growth Brings Holistic Wellness to Harlan's Square

What started as a single massage room has blossomed into a comprehensive wellness destination in downtown Harlan. For Stephanie Gifford, owner of Soothing Hands, the journey from massage therapist to successful business owner has been shaped by community needs and a dedication to helping others heal.

From Pre-Med to Healing Hands

Gifford's path to massage therapy wasn't direct. After high school, she initially pursued pre-chiropractic studies at the University of Nebraska Omaha. "I felt like I wasn't on my right path," Gifford recalls. Following her intuition, she switched to massage therapy school the next year – a decision that would prove transformative.

After gaining experience in Omaha's spa industry and working for various employers, Gifford found herself back in Harlan. When a local salon closure presented an opportunity in 2014, she took the leap into business ownership. "I thought, if I fail, I can just go work for somebody else," she says with a smile. "Might as well try it."

Evolution Through Community Connection

That initial venture – a single 10-by-12 room – has grown into a thriving wellness center on Harlan's square. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, Soothing Hands offers an expanded suite of services including therapeutic massage, nail care, and energy healing.

While Gifford initially planned to focus on relaxation and spa services, she found her practice evolving to meet community needs. "I attract more people needing therapeutic and medical-based massage," she explains. "That got me more interested in different medical-based techniques." This led her to pursue additional training in medical massage, particularly focusing on sciatic nerve pain and hip relief – common issues among her rural Iowa clientele.

Collaborative Care Network

Today, Soothing Hands operates as a hub in Harlan's wellness community, working closely with local chiropractors, physical therapists, and medical professionals. "We're a network, and we all have our own little place in people's wellness," Gifford notes. This collaborative approach ensures clients receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs.

The business has expanded to include independent practitioners offering complementary services. Alongside Gifford's therapeutic massage and nail services, clients can access various massage modalities through other practitioners, as well as Reiki and energy healing services.

A Mission to Support and Serve

For Gifford, success isn't just about growing her own business – it's about lifting others up. "When I first started, I had so much support from different friends and family," she reflects. "It's become a mission of mine that if another massage therapist or nail tech came to me wanting help building their business, I would do everything in my power to support that."

This philosophy extends to her approach to wellness. "I don't want massage to be seen as just a luxury anymore," she emphasizes. "It should be part of your wellness routine to help take care of yourself."

Visit Soothing Hands at 1111 7th Street in Harlan, across from the movie theater. While Stephanie's schedule is currently full for new clients, the team welcomes new patients for various therapeutic services. Book appointments through their website, call 712-235-3570, or follow their Facebook page for updates and availability. Gift certificates are available for purchase online.