Formerly known as the Wellness & Tranquility Center, Shakir Whitehead of The eLements Spa was unsatisfied with the way people would shrug off pain as an unavoidable product of aging, especially when there were more probable triggers such as diet, stress, hair color, and lack of exercise. Drawing on this idea, and the deep appreciation of his friends and family for his incredible backrubs, he decided to become a licensed massage therapist. Now in the comfort of his own private studio, Shakir can alleviate chronic tension with flowing Swedish strokes, or address lower-layer aches with deep-tissue or trigger point therapy. When not befriending muscles, Shakir befriends his community, volunteering his time for Whole Foods and Susan G. Komen charity events.