This month the Still Point crew gathered, as we do each month, to connect and communicate authentically with one another. Today, we focused on one of our core values: harmony.
What is harmony, and why is it important for a business?
Before attempting to answer these questions, we created space to define harmony experientially, through music.
We have a couple of very talented musicians on staff, including massage therapist Ben Survant. Ben has been offering Esalen Massage at Still Point Wellness for over five years, and for the past three years has been the saxophonist for popular Asheville soul/rock/neo-hip hop band, Natural Born Leaders.
Embodying Harmony
Ben began our harmony practice by opening a curiously large tote bag and quietly placing a variety of instruments on the floor in the center of the room. He invited us all to join him in a circle, and asked that we each choose an instrument. Then he started to play, and we gradually joined in. Some played simple rhythms and others explored more adventurous melodies. As we played, we looked around at each other, communicating through eye contact, smiles and music.
At one point we all slowed to a stop, shared some glances and then, and one by one started picking it back up again - faster and louder this time, until we were all laughing and letting go.
Appreciating Harmony
After the jam, we reflected on particular times when we have experienced harmony at Still Point. Here are some of the things that were shared:
The voice of Still Point Wellness. We strive to speak from a collective unified voice on the website, social media, when you call us, email us or come in for a visit. When we post, write or speak from a place of our core values, our message is clear and consistent.
The intuitive hiring process. For many of us, entry into the world of Still Point was based more on an intuitive hit rather than on a resume. I was hired by Corey right after my first float five years ago, Michelle invited Drew to apply after his first float one year ago, and most recently Kaorin came in to visit the spa the day after we received notice that Nadya was transitioning on. We never even posted the position or held an interview. Right place, right time, right fit.
The flow. Still Point Wellness is busy! Hopefully, when you visit, you feel as if you are the only person in the spa. However, we likely have clients in each massage room, the float tank, the relaxation room and in session with Corey, all at the same time. With limited space and seating, it takes a great deal of planning and communication among our staff to ensure harmony of the physical space.
The unspoken communication. A couples massage is a perfect example of harmony in action. Massage therapists work side by side to provide a deeply relaxing and shared experience for a couple. At the end of the session, an unspoken agreement on how and when to simultaneously end the massage happens between the therapists, creating a sense of connection between the individuals and their experience.
The teamwork. It became clear a couple of months ago that we needed to have at least two people at the front desk for the busiest part of the day. We put so much thought and effort to clarify who does what and when, especially because they share a space. Now, to watch the front desk staff work together during the busy moments is like watching a carefully choreographed dance. Without speaking, they float between tasks, taking turns at the desk and caring for clients. Like two gears turning at the same speed, they maintain the calm, welcoming, and safe space that Still Point is known for.
So, what is harmony?
For us, it’s communicating with another from a place of compassion, remembering how every tiny detail affects the whole, and knowing that we are each a valuable instrument in the Still Point symphony.
