Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is Chi Junky Founder Rachelle Wintzen, who recently launched her Toronto wellness concierge and private yoga studio to make achieving total wellness simple and accessible…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your businesses in a nutshell.
Chi Junky is Toronto’s first wellness concierge and private yoga studio, designed to make achieving total wellness simple and accessible. In a serene yet contemporary atmosphere, our team of naturopaths, massage therapists, nutritional counsellors, personal trainers and yoga instructors work to fulfill your wellness needs. Think of us as your one-stop shop for clean living. No more commuting, guesswork, stress or excuses when it comes to your health.
If we don’t offer a particular service in house, we’ll locate the best provider and arrange an appointment for you.
Why did you start your business, what was the inspiration?
After my career as a professional dancer ended because of an injury, I worked in the New York City nightlife industry for almost a decade. I eventually became physically and mentally wasted, and I knew I needed to make a change. I vowed to dedicate one year to a radical detox and I soon became addicted to living well – I became a junky for energy (chi)! Now it’s my mission to help others experience the incredible benefits of clean living.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
There is no greater feeling than seeing clients achieve a healthier, more positive lifestyle and knowing that I’ve helped them get there. The most challenging part is running the business, but my passion drives me to keep going! I wouldn’t change what I’m doing for the world.
Where do you see your business going in five years?
In five years I see a large roster of clients living their ideal lives and feeling fantastic because of the support they found at Chi Junky. I also hope to be able to reach a larger international audience through our online programs and content. Finally, I hope to create a permanent retreat in the tropics for those looking for a more concentrated detox environment (and those looking to escape the Canadian winters!)
What does success look like to you?
Success is happiness and health, and being able to call your passion work.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
It was on January 25th when I opened the doors to Chi Junky – a safe and supportive, judgment-free environment that’s accessible to all and truly feels like a home away from home.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Follow your passion: dream it, believe it, and go be it. If your passion consumes you, it is your duty to yourself to see it through. If your dream seems unachievable or overwhelming, make a plan and start with the first step.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
It is so important to give back. When we have abundance in any capacity, we can only achieve more by giving to others. I have taught a lot of free yoga classes to children living in high-risk areas, and I am working to align with a charity that Chi Junky will support on a long-term basis.
What is Notable to you?
Notable to me is making a difference in your community or on a larger scale. It’s trying to make a positive change in an often overwhelming and negative world, standing up for what you believe in, and inspiring those around you to make positive changes.
BlackBerry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
I was a BlackBerry girl for ages, but I recently took the leap and made the switch to an iPhone. I feel like a cool kid now – but autocorrect is a pain!
How do you keep active, energetic, and vibrant?
I stay active with lots of yoga and by surrounding myself with people who share the same passions as me. My business also keeps me extremely busy and continues to inspire me. I stay vibrant and energetic by nourishing my body with a really clean, plant-based diet and lots of green juice, while still enjoying a balanced life.
Chi Junky Wellness Concierge & Private Yoga Studio opened on January 25th, 2014 with a grand opening red carpet event.
#LYNL | (Live Your Notable Life)
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