Insights contributed by IAW Influencer Member Toshiana Baker, Founder of SpaWorx
When you’re a high-performing professional, the pressure to consistently deliver can feel relentless. Deadlines pile up, your calendar fills, and before you know it, your own well-being slips to the bottom of the priority list. Yet here’s the truth: neglecting self-care doesn’t just affect you personally—it impacts your leadership, your team, and your long-term success.
Holistic wellness isn’t about indulgence. It’s about science-backed practices that keep your mind clear, your body strong, and your energy steady. As Toshiana Baker, a licensed esthetician, educator, and thought leader in the spa and wellness industries, reminds us: “When you prioritize your well-being, you elevate everything else—your performance, your relationships, and your ability to lead.”
So what does holistic self-care look like for today’s ambitious women? Toshiana shares three key insights:
1. Self-Care Protects Cognitive Function
Research indicates that chronic stress diminishes focus, decision-making, and memory—all essential skills for professionals. Practices like meditation, breathwork, or taking mindful breaks throughout the day provide your brain with the rest it needs to process complex challenges.
2. Holistic Wellness Builds Emotional Resilience
High-achievers often internalize pressure, which can lead to burnout or emotional fatigue. Energy-based wellness practices, such as Toshiana’s proprietary AuraMELT™ Method, combine restorative touch with mindfulness to reset the nervous system. When your emotional energy is stable, you’re better equipped to lead with confidence and compassion.
3. Self-Care Strengthens Leadership Presence
People don’t just follow what you say—they respond to your energy. Leaders who are grounded, well-rested, and aligned with their values naturally project a sense of presence and inspire trust. Holistic self-care practices—from consistent sleep to nourishing nutrition to intentional recovery—make this possible.
The Takeaway
Self-care isn’t a luxury for high-performing professionals—it’s a non-negotiable. Protecting your energy and prioritizing holistic wellness fuels sharper decisions, stronger resilience, and the leadership presence your team needs.As Toshiana puts it: “You don’t have to sacrifice yourself to achieve success. When you lead from wholeness, your impact multiplies.”
