Sharina Jones set out to build a place where everyone had access to self-care because she knew firsthand what it felt like to be without it.
“I am in a wheelchair and my husband always had to take time off work to help me lift onto tables for facials and massages,” says Jones. “That is where the idea came from. I thought, ‘Why can’t I just make it myself?’”
So, in April 2023, Jones opened a fully accessible spa called Rehydrate Michigan. The spa offers a variety of services including IV therapy and injections, massage therapy, infrared light therapy, reiki, and float therapy. To ensure that everyone can use these services, Jones’ spa has different amenities such as tables that rise and lower, a roll-in shower, a ramp for the infrared sauna along with doors that open up wide, and an elevator to go between floors.
Jones not only wants to help individuals with visible disabilities, she wants to provide interventions for those with unseen issues as well.
“We had a specific client that was trying to get pregnant but had PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome),” says Jones. “I also have PCOS and know that using an infrared sauna helps with hormone balancing. I said, ‘Maybe this will work,’ and she was pregnant within three months.”
With 12 employees, Jones and her staff are working to make sure her spa is inclusive to everyone.
Why did you decide to open in Flint & Genesee?
I know a lot of spas around here are higher-end places and not everyone can afford that. We are diligent about setting our prices for everyone and making a more inclusive place for the area we are in.
How would you describe Genesee County to an outsider?
I think that there are hardworking individuals here who put in their best effort. I think it can be a forgotten county because people focus on more affluent areas, but everyone deserves self-care and the same opportunities.
What is your business philosophy?
We want to help people find that balance between body, mind, and soul. We want to ensure that everyone has the same opportunity for self-care and can help prevent issues verses waiting for something to happen and then seeking medical care.
Outside of business, what do you like to do?
I spend time with my husband and son. I like to mono ski with my son who just started skiing last year. I also run a nonprofit called Think Beyond the Chair to help people see beyond their disabilities.
Tell me more about Think Beyond the Chair.
We have events throughout the year with people with disabilities. For example, we are going on a cruise for people with disabilities where they can learn how to live their best lives and not focus on their situation. We get involved with individuals to make sure they don’t end up in a nursing home, that they get back to a job or school, and we help people with dating and how to travel. The main thing is to help people find their own independence.
Why did you decide to join the Chamber?
I wanted to see how we could be more involved in the community and meet other business owners. We recently went to our first Chamber Luncheon, and I met a ton of people who have already emailed me!
What advice would you give other business owners or future entrepreneurs?
I think that a lot of people try to wait until they have everything in place, but a lot of my businesses just started with an idea. It’s okay to go to the market and then grow. You don’t need everything to start.
For more information on Rehydrate Michigan, visit RehydrateMI.com.