Mihail Antoniei studied for more than 1,000 hours in his native Romania to become a massage therapist and now he’s started his own business in Staffordshire.

He worked in a warehouse when he first moved to the UK but in March 2024 launched a massage therapy and wellness business using his training and expertise.

Mihail has a base at Gait Wise in Newcastle-under-Lyme and offers a mobile service across North Staffordshire.

He said: “I am a passionate and dedicated massage therapist with more than five years of experience in various therapeutic techniques. I love helping people feel better, relieve stress, improve mobility and adopt a healthier lifestyle.

“Over the years I have worked with clients from different backgrounds, from athletes needing fast recovery to individuals looking for deep relaxation and physical and mental balance.”

Mihail completed an intensive 1,080-hour massage therapy program at Ion Holban Vocational School in Iași, Romania where he learned advanced techniques and gained a deep understanding of how massage contributes to health and wellbeing.

Services he offers include deep tissue massage, reflexology, sports massage, cupping therapy, cervical massage to alleviate neck and shoulder pain, anti-cellulite massage and relaxation massage. Each session is personalised and based on the client’s needs.

He said: “For me, massage is not just a technique, it’s a form of therapy and connection. I strongly believe that health is not just about being pain-free; it’s about balance, inner peace and a healthy lifestyle.

“That’s why, in addition to massage, I also provide guidance on nutrition, recovery and overall wellbeing, helping my clients improve their daily habits.”

In Romania he completed a year of professional practice and volunteer work at Iași Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital, providing massage therapy to patients with various conditions and assisting in their recovery process.

He volunteered for six months at the Star of Hope Foundation in Romania, working with children with special needs and supporting them in developing essential life skills.

Mihail added: “I’m very grateful to be able to offer my services to the communities of Stoke-on-Trent, Newcastle-under-Lyme and the surrounding areas. I try to make my home wherever I am in the world and North Staffordshire is my home now.”

Mihail has entered the Start-Up Business of the Year category of the University of Staffordshire Business Awards.