We’re looking forward to introducing you to Hanna M. Check out our conversation below.
Hanna, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
Haha so much! It’s honestly such an eye opening experience to talk to people who have never had a massage or tried yoga or pilates. I am reminded often that certain terms or concepts that are as familiar to me as the back of my hand, are not necessarily common or shared knowledge–which I think is a good lesson about communication in general–you know, like how important it is to listen and not just talk at people.
I hear time and time again from people who are afraid of Pilates (if they’ve even heard of it). This confuses me, because in my experience, Pilates is so easily modified to be “easier” or. “harder” depending on your experience level. The way I teach, we always begin by finding that sweet spot, where you feel the burn, but can comfortably do the exercises. And that spot is different for every person. I guess I’m sad that people are going to Pilates classes where they feel left out because they aren’t [strong/flexible/coordinated] enough. The whole point of going to class is that you build strength/flexibility/coordination…
I’m here to make Pilates not scary!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Hanna. I started Massage138 in 2021, doing massage out of my house and then eventually renting a small studio in Charles Village. I had no idea what I was doing haha! In the years since then, I have learned a lot about taxes and social media marketing and I’ve done so many loads of laundry… I have also built an amazing community of long-time clients, whom I look forward to seeing each month. I feel so lucky to love doing what I do!
In 2025, I moved my studio to the Lauraville neighborhood in northeast Baltimore City. I expanded the services offered to include yoga and Pilates classes as well as my signature massages. I teach very unscary Pilates, and I have two wonderful humans who rent the space to teach yoga classes.
I have developed a signature massage style that incorporates elements of Swedish, Deep Tissue, and Myofascial Release techniques. I am also an advanced Deep Feet Barre Therapy trained Ashiatsu practitioner. Ashiatsu is a form of massage performed using my feet, while standing on the table and using my body weight to apply pressure. Ashi is great for people who like deep tissue work, and is really good at down-regulating the nervous system. If you are curious, definitely ask me! Most of my clientele are monthly regulars.
STUDIO 138 is a proudly and unapologetically safe and inclusive space, welcoming the LQBTQIA community, and people of all sizes, backgrounds, etc. We have no tolerance for jerks or creeps, everyone else can come as they are. We have a un-fussy DIY punk vibe. This isn’t a pretentious space, but it is professional, clean, and inviting.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
Before I met my partner Mikey, there was a huge part of myself that I kept hidden (even from myself). I think I had somehow crushed and pushed down and made myself small, mostly as a defense mechanism, Like, if I didn’t want things, I wouldn’t be disappointed if I didn’t get them. Not things like stuff, but like deep personal growth. Our relationship makes me feel safe and supported, which is something I want everyone to feel! That kind of encouragement is what allowed me to try things I was scared of, like singing in a band, and starting my own business!
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Try the things that scare you!
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
Peanut butter and dessert. And my cats.
But seriously, those things AND friendship/community. I crave deep connections. I love making people cookies and finding the perfect gifts and having philosophical conversations around a fire!
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
Haha kind of! I love my job, which is a crazy thing to say. I am at a humbling place in my career right now because I am having to build clientele again. Although my massage books are full (for which I am so grateful), my Pilates classes are often just one or two people. I wish that were financially viable, because it’s fun teaching people individually, but I need to fill up classes if I’m going to continue offering them. Luckily, I really like doing Pilates, so I’m tap-dancing into work, and giving it my all, and trusting that the people will come with time!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://wearestudio138.amtamembers.com
- Instagram: @wearestudio138
- Other: Booking site: https://www.vagaro.com/studio-138
