J Spa - Essential Service for Times of Stillness
/Behind every business that has managed to keep its doors open through the pandemic, there is a story of resilience, fortitude and often purpose-driven commitment. J Spa in Eugene, Oregon is an exceptional example of a business which has managed to not just survive but find opportunities to thrive despite the hurdles and challenges inherent in operating a hands-on practice in the shadow of COVID-19.
Owner/ operator, Jacqueline Johnson, has spent nearly 20 years building an illustrious career and reputation as an esteemed athlete, coach and licensed massage therapist. As a graduate of the University of South Carolina, Johnson also served as the UofSC’s Sports Physiology and Sprints and Hurdles Coach and as the head massage therapist for the track team. Upon moving to Oregon, she continued building upon her impressive resume by volunteering as the Sprints and Hurdles Coach at the U of O, and eventually was hired to be the lead massage therapist for U of O athletics.
“I initially opened the spa after eleven years in Eugene because it was really hard to find even the basic necessities in skin and hair care products,” she shared. “Rather than complaining about the problem, I decided to find a solution for it and so 3 years ago, I opened J Spa, a multi-ethnic beauty supply retail store and full-service day spa.”
After experiencing a strong start to her enterprise, she had to pivot quickly when the pandemic hit. Thankfully, a savvy disaster plan she developed and a grant from The Oregon Cares Fund helped her ride out the storm. “After a historic first quarter, we had to shut down,” she said grimly. “Fortunately, I had set myself up for hard times, so we were able to keep going even when we were forced to close our doors for 2 months. Additionally, the money I received from The Oregon Cares Fund through the Contingent was really helpful in helping me stay open and pay down my small business loan. I really hope they expand this program throughout the country and also continue it in the State of Oregon.”
Despite sweeping regulatory changes mandating masks, changes in contact policies and social distancing measures, her business has proven to be essential service to her community. “We have been one of the lucky ones,” said Jacqueline. “A lot of people during this time of stillness have been focusing on self-care. This has resulted in people dealing with the stress by coming in for massage and other services we offer.”
Precautions to ensure client safety are a high priority for J Spa. “We have definitely implemented the recommended COVID protocols. Everyone is required to wear face masks while in our facility, except during facials. We’ve staggered our appointments so there is 30 minutes in between clients, minimizing in-person contact. We also have hand sanitizer stations throughout our facility and thoroughly clean our massage tables and equipment to reduce cross-contamination.”
J Spa’s resplendent arrays of services are numerous and wellness focused. In addition to wellness workshops, full-body and beauty treatments include full-body waxing, facials, foot-detox and aromatherapy, sports massage, prenatal massage, swedish and deep tissue massage, hot stone massage and more. The beauty boutique is chock-full of multi-ethnic skin and hair care products, including wigs, hair extensions, ponytails, hair toppers, hair,-braiding and styling tools, bath oils, lotions, cbd cream, collagen supplements and more.
It is the practice of Gratitude that Johnson cites as the primary force behind the success and staying power of J Spa. “I love what I do and I’ve learned how to practice gratitude. Because even though there have been terrible things going on around me, there are also some great things going on around me. That’s where celebrating milestones comes in. One of the things I’ve learned is to celebrate the smallest milestones. If you have a thousand dollar day or achieve a goal you set for yourself, celebrate those milestones. It will keep you energized. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint,” she said with a smile.
To learn more about Jaqueline Johnson and The J Spa business services visit
485 Alexander Loop #110, Eugene, OR 97401
