Sherrie Tennessee joined the spa industry in 2002 as a massage therapist and never looked back. Now the education director of SpaSOS, a spa and wellness education and consulting firm, Tennessee uses her experience and expertise to stand apart as an industry leader. Tennessee spoke to WellSpa 360 about the life-changing experience that set the trajectory of her career, connecting with people through health and wellness and her travel aspirations.
Sherrie Tennessee joined the spa industry in 2002 as a massage therapist and never looked back. Now the education director of SpaSOS, a spa and wellness education and consulting firm, Tennessee uses her experience and expertise to stand apart as an industry leader. Tennessee spoke to WellSpa 360 about the life-changing experience that set the trajectory of her career, connecting with people through health and wellness and her travel aspirations.
What is your favorite part about the wellness industry?
My favorite thing about the wellness industry is connecting with clients and helping them reach their wellness goals. I love the opportunity to interact in the treatment room, as well as share new concepts, information, products and trends on stage and in the classroom.
What is your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment thus far has been acceptance into the Hospitality Ph.D. program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and successfully completing my first year. I have two more years before I complete and graduate from the program.
What is your favorite healthy recipe?
I recently gave up beef and pork—again—so my favorite meal is back to roasted chicken, brown rice and steamed cabbage. It is so healthy and delicious.
What is a dream you hope to achieve?
I would love to live abroad again, close to the beach, and host wellness retreats and classes.
Where is your favorite travel destination?
I had the opportunity to explore the Caribbean while I was the education manager at Sandals Resorts International. I love the beach, especially those in Jamaica and Barbados.
What is your favorite self-care practice?
A day by the water—pool or beach. I recently relocated to Las Vegas. I love it, but having lived within minutes or hours of the beach, I miss the water. To fill that void, I find myself a pool day. I have learned over the years to work day(s) of rest in my schedule so I can step back, reflect, pause and simply enjoy the break.
What wellness trends do you see emerging right now?
The biggest trend I see in wellness is technology. We’re dealing with a shortage of therapists and the desire to continue providing customized experiences. Wellness technology is going to allow for the convergence of both aspects, thus becoming commonplace in the next two to five years. It is actually the focus of my Ph.D. dissertation at UNLV.
What is on the horizon for SpaSOS?
I am excited to have launched “The Black Women’s Guide to Wellness” on Instagram, a podcast on Podbean and video conversations with other wellness experts on YouTube. I plan to use my research on the topic and turn it into a book.
