News Summary
Women entrepreneurs in Rhode Island are leading the charge in the growing health and wellness sector, projected to reach $25 billion by 2029. With a strong focus on holistic health practices, these business leaders are not only providing essential services but also addressing community needs and challenges, such as housing issues affecting healthcare professionals. Notable businesses include Ocean Ki Wellness Center, Golden Mean Pilates Studio, and Drishti Yoga and Wellness, all contributing to the local economy and promoting well-being in the community.
Providence, Rhode Island – Women entrepreneurs in Rhode Island are paving the way for growth in the health and wellness sector, which is poised to expand significantly in the coming years. As part of a nationwide trend, the U.S. health and wellness spa industry consists of nearly 20,000 businesses and is projected to generate over $20 billion for the economy in 2024. By 2029, this figure is expected to rise to $25 billion, driven by a growing focus on mindfulness, fitness, and personal well-being following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The wellness industry, while notable, still trails behind the much larger U.S. gym and fitness market, valued at over $44 billion. Interestingly, ownership demographics vary significantly between the two sectors. Men predominantly own gym and fitness clubs at a rate of 70%, while women lead health and wellness enterprises at 71%.
In the Rhode Island market, health, wellness, and fitness businesses hold an estimated value of $4.5 billion. This indicates a growing interest in holistic living and preventative healthcare, contributing to meaningful changes within the economy of wellness.
Spotlight on Local Women Entrepreneurs
Several women-owned enterprises in Rhode Island illustrate the shift towards holistic health practices. Dr. Jen Jackson operates Ocean Ki Wellness Center in Middletown and Warwick, specializing in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Ocean Ki’s offerings combine Eastern traditions with Western scientific practices, providing tailored treatment plans that feature acupuncture, massage, cupping, energy work, and herbal remedies. The center’s clientele includes individuals seeking relief from chronic conditions and stress, with plans to extend their services to underserved communities.
Another notable entrepreneur is Anna Tipaeva, who founded Golden Mean Pilates Studio in Newport. With training from The Pilates Center of Boulder, Colorado, Tipaeva’s studio name references sacred geometry, symbolizing her healing approach through Pilates. Her philosophy emphasizes the importance of biomechanics and the mind-body connection in physical wellness.
Beverly Cloutier is another figure in this movement, founding Drishti Yoga and Wellness in Newport, where she is affectionately known as “the real estate yogi.” Cloutier provides both group and private yoga classes, meditation sessions, and wellness coaching, empowering clients to take charge of their health.
Nota Znika leads Newport Hypnosis, which assists clients in overcoming personal challenges by helping them understand subconscious triggers. Znika’s focus on emotional healing highlights the diverse approaches women entrepreneurs are taking in the wellness sector.
Community Contributions and Challenges
The contributions of these women entrepreneurs are beneficial to the health of the Rhode Island community. Their emphasis on holistic healing, which encompasses treatments for the mind, body, and spirit, plays a pivotal role in promoting overall well-being among residents.
However, Rhode Island’s healthcare landscape is not without challenges. Newport Hospital faces a workforce housing crisis that jeopardizes its ability to retain and recruit healthcare professionals due to skyrocketing housing prices. To address this issue, the hospital is seeking partnerships to launch workforce housing initiatives, stressing that the wellness of healthcare professionals is deeply intertwined with the community’s health.
Supporting local wellness initiatives, such as those led by women entrepreneurs, can contribute to a flourishing health sector that not only enhances individual well-being but also supports social and economic stability in Rhode Island.
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