Michael Rivers, a highly skilled massage therapist with over 25 years of experience in various modalities, is here to help you rejuvenate your body and mind. Specializing in techniques such as Swedish, deep tissue, acupressure, and trigger point therapy, Michael has mastered the art of healing touch. But his expertise doesn’t stop there. He also offers post-operation massage and lymphatic drainage therapy, ensuring a holistic approach to your well-being. Through his virtual and in-person fitness training and health coaching sessions, he guides clients on exercise and nutrition, providing them with the tools necessary for a healthy lifestyle. What sets Michael apart is his focus on not only the body but also the mind. With his mindset counseling, he helps clients address the mental aspects of their well-being, creating a complete package for overall wellness.
Please enjoy our interview!
Tell us a little about your business and why you started.
Michael: WAR 5 Health & Wellness helps people to reconnect and utilize their power within so that they can improve their health. We’ve been in business for almost 30 years and enjoy assisting individuals to become the best version of themselves.
We utilize mindset coaching, nutritional counseling, iridology, body assessments, fitness training, and various massage therapy and bodywork modalities to guide clients to an improved state of well-being. Our most popular service is massage therapy and bodywork; many of our clients call it “The Ultimate Massage Experience” as they always leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and empowered.
My journey began around the age of five when I started practicing massage and bodywork techniques on my parents to help them relax and destress.
My father referred to me as his “doc”. My love for fitness erupted around the same time, influenced heavily by my pop’s impeccable physical condition. He was the strongest and fastest person that my brother and I knew so we wanted to be just like him. For this reason, he got us our first weight set when I was about 10 years old. This is also when I became aware of how my body responded to certain foods, so I started consuming more foods in their natural state which improved my athletic prowess.
Do you believe in work-life balance? If so, how do you maintain it?
Michael: Indeed I believe and live by balancing work and life. My main message to clients is to balance all aspects of their lives. Making time for themselves and their loved ones is imperative. We must live, and not just live to work. I maintain this balance by intentionally organizing my schedule to ensure that I adhere to these principles.
What’s your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?
Michael: Aspiring and new entrepreneurs should love and have a deep passion for their business. When this is the foundation, it will continue to grow and flourish. Make sure that you properly delegate authority as it expands. It is wise to have knowledge of all that the business encompasses but do not burden yourself with fulfilling all of the obligations. Learn how to let others assist and complete the tasks that you hired them to accomplish. Above all, do not allow yourself to become complacent. Continue to dream, set goals, and constantly learn about your craft, for we are only experts at that particular time.
What would attract listeners to your story?
Michael: Listeners will be intrigued by my journey because many will be able to relate to it. I’ve taken what brings me joy, and I’ve expanded and applied my knowledge to help others better balance all areas of their lives (spiritually, mentally, emotionally, physically, heartfully, and soulfully). In addition, I practice the principles that I teach, so I am a living example.
What is your proudest business accomplishment?
Michael: I am not sure if there is one achievement that stands out above the rest.
Clients have told me on numerous occasions that I have healed them, but I let them know that they healed themselves, and during the process, they permitted me to spark their driving forces while offering guidance. The satisfaction of knowing that my help and expertise have made a positive impact on my client’s lives is immeasurable.
It’s Wellness Month. What is wellness to you?
Michael: Helping people become healthier is the root of WAR 5 Health & Wellness. To us, wellness means being aware, listening to our forces, and acting to bring a supreme balance to all that we are. We believe that true health comes from within and we are here to partner with our clients on their journey of self-discovery. Our goal is to help them find balance in body, mind, and spirit so that they can live their best life!
August is Black Business Month. How important do you feel it is to support and promote other Black Business owners?
Michael: We support other Black businesses on a regular basis. If we do not already know someone who can assist us in achieving something, we will reach out to someone in our network who can help.
I have been working with my own people long before I officially started this business. I will always encourage us to continuously circulate our spiritual, mental, and monetary energies amongst ourselves.
As a wellness facilitator, Michael Rivers is dedicated to helping his clients achieve optimal well-being. By combining his extensive knowledge and experience in massage therapy, post-operation care, fitness training, health coaching, and mindset counseling, he provides a comprehensive approach to rejuvenating your body and mind. This article has explored the various facets of Michael’s work, highlighting his dedication to continuously enhancing his skills and assisting clients in relaxation, balance, and healing. During Black Business Month and National Wellness Month, let us celebrate Michael’s contributions to the health and wellness industry and uncover the healing secrets that he has to offer.
If you’re interested in taking your health and well-being to the next level visit www.war5.me or on FB/IG at Michael.Rivers.125432.