Today we’d like to introduce you to Marissa Torres-Bertram.
Marissa, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was initially introduced to massage as a general form of rest and relaxation, but after my mother went through breast cancer in 2010, I learned about other modalities and styles of massage, and came to view bodywork as a much larger part of self care and well-being. Being an innate caregiver, my connection to bodywork has since developed into a holistic approach that supports healing on all levels – mental, emotional, and physical. I’ve had many different professions since graduating college in 2011, and after leaving my full time data analytics job in 2023, I found a part time massage training program to pursue massage therapy.
I feel some of my strengths are bringing a calm, focused and grounding energy to the space. I also consider myself a life long learner and avidly pursue additional training, education and techniques to add to my toolkit. This helps me adapt sessions to draw from a range of styles and modalities to support a client’s specific goals.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I could not have asked for a better group of classmates from school to go through training with. We were all such an eclectic group of people but became close throughout the year-and-a-half part-time program. I finished my clinic hours in November of 2025, and opened in January 2026. I chose Yess Yoga’s beautiful space for my practice, and am located on their second floor wellness space. Yess Yoga’s building has lots of natural light, tons of various, gorgeous plants everywhere, and gives an all around grounding and calming vibe. Located in the Whittier neighborhood, there is a strong sense of community support and fellowship amongst members and visitors to the studio.
The road, as any, has had some ups and downs. Alex Pretti was murdered just a block away from the studio during Minneapolis’ occupation during ICE Metro Surge in January. Rescheduling clients, adjusting work schedules, keeping folks safe, while showing up to support the community was always the priority. I am profoundly grateful to work in a space that prioritizes individuals’ healing, and cultivates a strong community advocating for human rights.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Mariposa Massage?
As a massage therapist, my mission was to create a space where every body feels welcomed, honored, and supported; where inclusivity isn’t just a value, but a guiding principle. I chose the name Mariposa as it means “butterfly” in Spanish. As a Puerto Rican growing up in Minnesota, I understand what it can feel like to navigate spaces where belonging isn’t always a given. Because of this, I prioritize cultivating authentic connections and creating a supportive, respectful environment.
With a background in yoga (E-RYT500), digital analytics, and art and design, I bring a thoughtful and balanced approach to each session. I enjoy helping folks feel more embodied, connected, and at ease. We live in a society that values disembodiment, for the sake of productivity, for the sake of existing, it can benefit us to sacrifice and suppress how our physical body feels. So it can be very vulnerable or challenging to ask folks to put into words how or what they are feeling when they come in, and I understand that!
I like reflecting on the transformative nature of massage, how we go into a cocoon of healing and come out changed.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
There also can be challenges working for yourself versus a franchise or corporation. Gaining regular clientele, marketing, exploring new techniques and pursuing additional training are sometimes effort, but individual therapists are truly worth their weight in gold. Unlike franchises, working for yourself affords the ability to create your own schedule to avoid burnout and prep for clients adequately, like giving ample time to discuss information before or after appointments. My clients are treated with extra time, extra care, and extra attention. Interactions with clients are not transactional, they are transformational. I prioritize clients feeling seen and safe and believe that everyone deserves access to massage and bodywork for self care. I do this work because I love it, and working for myself affords me to make decisions that keep the occupation sustainable.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mariposamassagemn.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariposamassage_mn/
