Meet Jasmine Tinio | Certified Massage Therapist/Asian Bodywork

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jasmine Tinio and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jasmine, what role has risk played in your life or career?
“Risk” means something completely different to me now as an adult than it did when I was younger. Back then, I was cautious, overly calculated, and honestly, kind of fearful. And with that fear came an inability to take action. So, the decisions I made as a young adult weren’t really my decisions—they were decisions made for me. Deep down, I knew I wanted a different life, but the fear of being “wrong” or hearing the dreaded “I told you so” held me back. Following the path that others thought was “right” for me only ended up putting me in tough spots, both mentally and physically.

After going through some challenging situations and learning the hard way, I had a kind of “aha” moment that I think most people experience after a big breakdown (haha). I started thinking about happiness, how short life really is, and the importance of being true to myself. And that’s when I realized—I needed to step up, put on my big girl pants, and start doing things that resonated with the person I was truly meant to be.

I wanted to find my true self—my Jasmine. So, I reframed my mindset, let go of my fears, and took the leap. As cheesy as it sounds, getting out of my own way has honestly been one of the best gifts I could have given myself. It’s made me a better friend, daughter, and businesswoman. And every day, I continue to grow by facing the risks I’m most afraid of.

What should our readers know about your business?
My business started in my parents’ cold, dimly lit, oil-stained garage. It was a typical garage, filled with random stuff, so I covered whatever I could with bed sheets to make it look more “professional.” Looking back, I didn’t exactly go all out to spruce the place up (haha), but I was so eager to start that I didn’t care where it happened—I just had to start somewhere. And that somewhere was there.

After a few months, I got an opportunity to do travel massage. A friend who was a personal trainer referred me, and I found myself doing my first sessions in tiny trailer homes. Talk about small spaces! Anyone who’s done travel massage knows it’s like bringing your office with you everywhere, which can be physically taxing enough on its own. Add to that the challenge of working with limited space and trying to create a “zen” vibe—let’s just say, it taught me how to get creative quickly.

After a year of doing travel massage, I decided to join a company. I wanted to be part of a team and learn from other therapists. I’m so grateful for those four years working alongside such amazing colleagues. But there came a point when I almost felt like my bodywork career might be over. My body was feeling tired, worn out, and I wondered if I could keep going. But instead of walking away, I made a promise to myself: if I was going to leave the industry, I had to first build my own business. And here I am, three years into having my own practice—and now, I’m also going back to school for acupuncture. So, I think I’ll be around for a while longer.

The journey hasn’t been easy, but I know I’m not alone in feeling like this is totally worth it. As many entrepreneurs can relate, when you’re doing something that’s meant for you and you pour your heart into it, the universe tends to have your back in big ways. It helps keep you encouraged and, ultimately, leads to success.

I tell people all the time, “I don’t just like what I do—I LOVE it.” And I mean it. Finding massage and bodywork has brought so many blessings into my life, and I genuinely hope everyone can find that thing that brings them more fulfillment than just another dollar in their bank account.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’ll describe a day, because if I try to answer for a whole weekend, this might turn into an essay (yep, I really love San Diego that much).

Being born and raised here, I know I’m probably going to get some side-eye for saying this, but I’d take my visitor to Old Town first. I just love it. Yes, I know there’s better Mexican food elsewhere, but Old Town has its own unique vibe. It’s almost like stepping back in time, with all the history, quirky little shops, and fun restaurants.

Next, I’d head to Seaport Village—because, well, when you visit San Diego, you have to see Seaport Village. The views are unreal: the Coronado Bridge, navy ships, the water, and so much greenery. It’s one of those places where you can just take it all in.

In the evening, I’d probably swing by North Park for a beer, then head over to South Park for some food (and yep, another beer). We’d finish up the night in Hillcrest—either at Flicks or Gossip Grill to “shake our bodies”, and grab another drink (haha).

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many people I have to thank for my success in life. First and foremost, I want to thank all the therapists I’ve ever received a massage from. This gratitude goes way back. Growing up, I went with my mom to a lot of “hole-in-the-wall” massage places. I didn’t realize it at the time, but looking back, those experiences—especially seeing how much better my mom felt after each session—were subtly shaping my understanding of the power of touch. It was then that I unknowingly started to absorb their skills and techniques.

I also want to thank my friends and colleagues at Thainamic Bodywork and Relaxation, the first place I worked at. I was lucky enough to be surrounded by such experienced and talented individuals who took the time to teach me, mentor me, and mold me into the therapist I am today. But here’s the thing—I can’t take credit for the skills I have. I didn’t invent them. I was taught by so many amazing people, and I learned just as much by paying attention to the massages I received. I like to think of my style as a beautifully blended touch, one that’s influenced by the incredible people I’ve had the privilege to work with.

Lastly, I want to thank my friends and family (you know who you are) who always believed in me, encouraged me to put my fears aside, and told me to take the leap. I’m naturally a slow starter, but I’m so grateful for the people in my life who lit the fire under me (haha)

Website: https://www.massagebook.com/therapists/jtnyo-bodywork

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