Ashwana’s Promise Spa & Wellness Celebrates Ribbon Cutting at CIT at The Pommer
Ashwana’s Promise Spa & Wellness marked its grand opening at CIT at The Pommer, located at 153 South Pearl Street, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, October 20. City of Albany Mayor Dr. Dorcey Applyrs, Capital Region CIT Operations Director Ruth Kassel, and representatives from the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District joined owner Chanell Jackson for the celebration.
A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) for 35 years, Jackson witnessed the impact of chronic pain firsthand and felt compelled to do more for her patients. She returned to school to become a certified massage therapist and received her certificate this year, aiming to deliver healing services to underserved communities that often lack access to such care.
As she studied the human body and the therapeutic benefits of massage, Jackson discovered a passion for the work. Now, she wants to educate the community about the healing properties of massage therapy for people living with chronic pain and conditions such as arthritis. While massage is often viewed as a luxury, Jackson sees it as a practice with medicinal and spiritual benefits, too.
Opening her own space has been a dream for Jackson, who grew up in Albany and wanted to establish a business in the community. Located at The Pommer, her studio offers an opportunity to connect with South End residents and keep services more affordable than traditional spas.
Named after her daughters, Ashwana’s Promise Spa & Wellness occupies a space big enough for one table. Jackson is revamping the space to make it a warm and welcoming environment.
“I want to be the best massage therapist in the world for real-life healing. I want to help people. That’s the goal,” Jackson said.
Ashwana’s Spa and Wellness offers Swedish massage, sports massage, reflexology, deep tissue, stretch, and myofascial services.
The business is among the enterprises at CIT at The Pommer, a local wealth-building initiative that gives residents the opportunity to invest in this mixed-use property in Albany’s South End. Through affordable investment shares and monthly contributions ranging from $10 to $100, residents can participate in building wealth while supporting their community!
“We’re thrilled to welcome a business dedicated to providing affordable, accessible wellness and massage therapy services to the South End neighborhood, and we thank Chanell Jackson for pursuing her dream here in Albany,” said Albany Mayor Dr. Dorcey Applyrs. “Ashwana’s Promise Spa & Wellness is among a growing suite of businesses at the historic Pommer building, and we look forward to seeing the spa and its fellow businesses flourish and grow within the community.”
"Thank you to Chanell Jackson for investing in the core of our Capital Region and City, downtown Albany, and for bringing affordable massage therapy services to our neighbors and residents," said Senator Patricia Fahy (D—Albany). "Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy, and I couldn't be more thrilled that we'll have a new space for healing, hope, and wellness right in the middle of downtown Albany. I encourage all of our neighbors to support Chanell and book an appointment soon!"
“I’m thrilled to welcome Ashwana’s Promise Spa & Wellness to Downtown Albany and congratulate owner Chanell Jackson on this exciting new chapter,” said Assemblymember Gabriella Romero (D,WFP-Albany, Guilderland, New Scotland). “Access to affordable wellness services is an important part of building a healthier, stronger community, and I’m grateful to see a local business owner making these services more accessible to our neighbors. Small businesses are the heart of our community, and I look forward to seeing Ashwana’s Promise grow and thrive here in Albany.
“We are excited to have Ashwana's Promise at the Community Investment Trust,” said Capital Region Community Investment Trust Director of Operations Ruth Kassel. “She has a beautiful space, a warm heart, and the knowledge and experience to bring healing and support to her clients. I am ready to book my first appointment!”
