Marlando Vassell is the founder of luxury wellness centre Amethyst Therapeutic Care, which is based in Hackney, London.

Marlando created Amethyst Therapeutic Care after sustaining a sciatic injury in 2023 and turning to the healing benefits of holistic therapy. In doing so he found that his healing process was compromised by the environment he was receiving his treatment in. He also found, from speaking to others, that there was a societal stigma surrounding men engaging in wellness practices. He knew that he had to create a welcoming space where everyone could feel comfortable and mentally at ease. This is why Marlando is passionate about providing a calming and healing environment that challenges the stigma and is accessible for everyone.

Marlando, who is a family man and enjoys spending his free time with his children, explains, “Even before I started the massage therapy for my back injury, I felt apprehensive about visiting a holistic salon – even friends had made inappropriate jokes or asked why I didn’t just visit my doctor instead. I couldn’t relax my mind enough for my body to benefit from the treatment. I was sure there had to be a place that felt more neutral for men and women. If it didn’t exist, then I was going to create it.”

Changing the narrative, knocking down stereotypes and encouraging more openness within the wellness sector and communities is a key driving force behind Amethyst Therapeutic Care. It even brings group sessions and family time into the offering, which is hugely important to the founder. Providing community services within Hackney is also personal for Marlando, as he lived and grew up within the area.

Marlando, continues, “Amethyst Therapeutic Care is a luxury, third space sanctuary that anyone can turn to. We have larger social spaces in the centre that are perfect for wellbeing workshops, couples’ massages and parent and baby groups, as we know how powerful socialisation and connection is for families and communities. I’m really excited about creating something that could change the landscape and initiate conversations going forward.”

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