Who We Are
We provide healing from skin to soul so you can return to your whole self.
We provide healing from skin to soul so you can return to your whole self.
What makes us awesome
At Yoso Wellness Spa, we know you want to live a life that leaves you feeling empowered. In order to do that, you need a place to restore yourself and feel confident in your skin. The problem is that the stress of life can leave you feeling rundown, tired, and not like your best self. We believe you deserve a wellness spa you can trust to help you feel whole inside and out.
We understand how exhausted life can leave you, which is why our team is dedicated to providing the best in spa treatments and raw products, helping you feel whole from skin to soul.
Evolving through a pandemic and 2020, we opened Yoso the Annex on Nov. 18th 2020. A wellness lifestyle shop for all and an extension of Yoso Wellness Spa. Our goal is for you to “feel whole from skin to soul” while experiencing true care so you can be your best self; whether you are at home or the spa.
Through this wild year we spent a lot of time thinking about how we can better support YOU in all your 86,400 seconds of every single day and live in a time when self care and nurturing matters more then ever before for our mental, emotional and physical health.
The Annex is dedicated to treasured self care, clean beauty, intentional wellness, earthy goods and high vibrations with sustainable products honoring our beliefs for non-toxic living for your optimal health inside and out.
You can shop Yoso the Annex in person down the street from the spa at 109 Cooper St. as well as now enjoy a complete online shopping experience.
Established in 2012, the team at Yōso Wellness Spa bring an unprecedented level of service to the Santa Cruz Community.
We are proud members of the Monterey Bay Green Business Program as well as the Eminence Green Spa Program and Think Local First – Santa Cruz County. As well as recipients of the *Be The Difference Award - 2019. *Entrepreneur of the Year - NEXTies 2018. *MINDBODY Visionary Award - 2018, 2019. *SWELLIES Favorite Facial, Spa & Green Business - 2018,2020. *Good Times Best of: Gold - Best Esthetician - 2017. *Good Times Best of: Day Spa, Esthetician, Waxing - 2014, 2015, 2016. *Most Compassionate Business Award: Mindbody BOLD 2016. *Leadership Bravo Award: WNA - 2016, 2017.
Get to know us
Founder - Chief Visionary & Esthetician
For many years I have had a deep passion for skin health and the incredible physical, mental and emotional benefits it can create for an individual when it is taken care of. I could not be more thrilled to share that enjoyment and knowledge with all the wonderful humans that experience a treatment with me. At Yoso we acknowledge the skin is out largest organ and we believe that what you put on your body is just as important as what you put in your body. Which is why our approach is clean, organic and natural beauty and skincare
I believe the skin is our third brain and the health of it goes beyond what we see on the surface which has led me to continue to expand not only my education, but the services we offer at Yoso. Our whole body has a story to tell, it simply needs to be seen, heard and acknowledged with conscious products, educated practitioners and treatment focused services.
Yoso was formed with the intention to be a respite for you to feel whole from skin to soul while offering organic products, holistic treatment focused services. My mission is that every person that interacts with us in any form, be it on the phone, online or walking through our doors, feels seen, known, and cared for, whether they experience a service, purchase something from us or just pop in to check us out. If it is possible to find a soul mate in a career, I have found mine!
If community was a second passion, well then that is mine. I believe in the power of connection, being kind and welcoming all. I believe in the power of engagement and the ripple effect a smile can make. Well now that we are in the time of COVID, I believe in the smile our eyes can make and the positive impact and ripple effect that can have for others.
Welcome to how Yōso was formed, with passion, vision and a lot of heart.
With a degree from San Jose State University in Advertising and Business Marketing followed by working as a buyer for a Green Business, Sports Basement, I decided to make a shift to follow my skincare passion in 2010. My education in Esthetics began at a school in Santa Clara with the highest standards and enthusiasm for success. I have received extensive training from the International Dermal Institute, Concepts Institute, Eminence Organics, Osmosis Skincare, Cecily Brayden and many more advanced educators throughout the United States. I continue to take advanced education classes in subjects such as skin conditions, Manual Lymphatic Drainage for the face, massage techniques, Facial Reflexology, REIKI, Gua Sha, Gemstones, product ingredients and essential oils.
A large accomplishment and stepping stone in my career was becoming a certified as an ONCOLOGY Esthetician! In my opinion education is one of the most important things I can do for my role in working with each of you, because as they say, “knowledge is power.” The more informed I am, the better I can inform you!
I am the type of person that jumps for joy from even the smallest things. My life could not be more fulfilled thanks to what I call my woodland fairies, also known as my three little girls Iylee, Marley and Braysen. You will likely meet my kids at some point as little spa nomads drifting around as they LOVE to be at Yōso helping out with little projects and getting treatments themselves!
I can’t wait to meet you at the Spa or at our new lifestyle wellness shop, Yoso the Annex!
With True Care,
Jennalee
Founder & Chief Visionary with a Splash of Happiness
~ Jennalee Dahlen
Esthetician
When working with the skin, I focus on treating the whole person -- mind, body and spirit. It is obvious to me that beautiful skin comes from more than what we put on our bodies. Instead, I also consider the energy that is within each individual that gives one a unique glow that no product can match. My clients appreciate my intuitive touch and extensive understanding of different skin conditions from my previous work in a dermatology office. I would say one of my super powers is applying evidence-based practice I learned from the dermatologists in a holistic way and teaching my clients how to create a skin care routine unique to them.
I look forward to meeting you!
~ Lauren Blefari
Esthetician
Bio coming soon!
~ Beth Corder
Lash Artist
Bio Coming Soon.
~ Shannon Sullivan
Dr. TCM, Acupuncturist
Bio Coming Soon
~ Dr. Lauren Fleming
Massage Therapist
GRETCHEN RETKA, BFA, CYT-350, CAMTC CMT, CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL BIRTH DOULA-ACTIVIST
Cypress Health Institute Certified CAMTC massage graduate & University of MN Music/Theatre graduate with a passion for healing & performing arts. Gretchen finds joy in the articulation & cultivation of refining the body as a tool to simultaneously evolve the mind, emotions & spirit for healing or personal expression! Massage techniques include swedish, thai, myofascial, prenatal, postnatal, abdominal massage, deep tissue & energy work in Reiki & cranial sacral.
~ Gretchen Retka
Massage Therapist
Hi my name is Louisa, and I have been a certified Massage Therapist since 2006.
I attended Cypress Health Institute where I studied Polarity, Deep Tissue and Swedish Massage. I am also trained in hot stone massage.
My passion for massage comes from the feeling of making a small difference by improving the way people feel. Witnessing the smiles and look of relaxation on our client's faces fills me with joy!
When I'm not working, I enjoy being active which includes exercising on the beach and weight training. I am also passionate about music and enjoy playing percussion.
I look forward to meeting you!
~ Louisa Sandman
Massage Therapist
Jenny completed the 1000 Hour program at the Finger Lakes School of Massage, in New York. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, and a history of competitive distance running, she has a deep understanding of the body and takes a holistic approach in her work.
Jenny has a great calming presence and touch. Her bodywork incorporates Connective Tissue Therapy, Neuromuscular/Trigger Point Therapy, Swedish, Energy Palpation and Reflexology to create a session, tailored to the needs of the body in its present state. Jenny views the body with immense gratitude and is honored to create and hold space for someone to heal and reconnect with themselves.
When she's not doing bodywork, Jenny is trail running with her dog, throwing clay, gardening, or tucked away somewhere quiet reading.
~ Jenny Schaffhouser
Energy Influencer - Spa Manager
Bio Coming Soon!
Carrie@yosowellness.com
~ Carrie Clark
Smile Maker - Spa Coordinator
I was born and raised in Ashland, Oregon. While most people recognize this town for its iconic Shakespeare Festival, the first thing I recognize is the culture. Ashland has a culture deeply rooted in holistic wellness practices and the goal of nurturing your mind, body, and spirit through natural or alternative methods. Growing up in an environment that encourages a conscious mind and lifestyle absolutely had an impact on the values I have today.
I started working at Yoso in October 2021 and it has been one of my favorite environments I have worked in. It has been an experience that makes me excited not only to go to work everyday, but inspires me to nurture my vessel. The values we have here are so important and it’s incredible to see what this group of amazing people are capable of.
I plan on attending a school for Esthetics in the next year in hopes of pursuing a career where I can make an impact in an individual’s life through giving the body a little bit of the love it deserves. In my spare time, I enjoy experiencing new foods, snuggling my dog, expressing my creativity through various mediums, and watching movies. I look forward to seeing you in the spa!
constance@yosowellness.com
~ Constance Bradley
Friendly Face at the Annex
Bio coming soon!
~ Zara Duran
Warm Welcome at Reception
Working several years providing high-level service in reception and the upscale hospitality industry has truly shaped my whole approach with each guest/client interaction from a warm welcome, creating a wholesome experience that goes beyond expectations, to a satisfactory departure until the next visit! The bonus being all the wonderful connections and joyous interactions.
I was raised to try and always approach all things in relation to the body in a natural and holistic way when possible. Yoso has been my first place of employment where I feel a strong connection to some of my most important values (including the shared values of everyone that operates and makes Yoso what it is with their radiant selves) that I’ve had all my life and that brings a great sense of well-being that I absolutely enjoy.
I love to also produce graphic design on the side and get crafty with every other type of medium. I have a large tribe of siblings/family that have travelled the gypsy life up and down California, and from the east to west, the real discovery being that we had each other through it all.
I can’t wait to warmly welcome you into experiencing the great vibes and services of Yoso!
~ Shalamar White
Peaceful Presence at Reception
Bio Coming Soon!
~ Rila Torgerson
Joy Creator at Reception
Bio Coming Soon!
~ Olivia Barber
Want to join Yoso? Click the little bubble for details.
We always love to meet individuals excited to be part of our dynamic and compassionate team here at Yoso.
Please always feel free to reach out to us if you are looking for a position and if we are hiring we would LOVE to meet you!
For job inquiries at the Spa emaill : hello@yosowellness.com
For Job Inquiries at the Annex email : shopannex@yosowellness.com
Current job positions available:
* Yoso the Annex - Part Time Sales Associate
* Yoso Wellness Spa - Full/Part Time Nail Technician
* Yoso Wellness Spa - Part Time Massage Therapist
* Yoso Wellness Spa - Part Time Reception
Yoso is a community focused and inclusive wellness spa & wellness lifestyle shop.
Our positions require drive, passion, creativity and teamwork.
Do you have a special interest in wellness, clean living and sustainability and love the community? Come say hello.
~ insert YOU here
What sets us apart
Allowing and guiding clients to experience their body's natural state in order to achieve their highest wellness.
Experience the full circle benefits of Yoso as a team, providing a meaningful space to clients from the moment they call or walk in, the service they experience, continuing into the days after they leave.
To genuinely take an interest in the needs of people who come see us. Yoso truly cares & wants to aide their ability to take care of themselves. We strive to provide a supportive environment for all clients and welcome our clients in as part of our family.
Creating a connection of community outside the doors of Yoso through event participation in many forms. Without our community love and support we would not have Yoso as we do.
Researching and testing each product and service to ensure quality before introducing it to our clients & community.
Being trusted to give the best quality and educated experience to everyone who buys our services or products.
Taking ownership over our roles at the spa and treating our space and each other with the care they deserve.
Anticipating what will make Yoso outstanding and do those things each day so that we and our clients leave happier than when we arrived.
Recognizing and caring for others as individuals like we do for ourselves.
Actively listening to and respecting everyone’s ideas so that we all can contribute and learn.
Openly sharing knowledge and expertise, because we can only succeed as a team.
We can answer that for you
You can undress to your level of comfort. Your practitioner will walk through this with you more. Throughout the session, you will be covered with a sheet and blanket with only the area being worked on exposed.
We are located at 740 Front St. Suite 110 in Downtown Santa Cruz in the Galleria right next door to Cafe Mare.
You can park in the Trader Joes Parking lot or the Galleria parking lot. Both are free parking. There is also a paid parking structure behind our building.
We are located at 109 Cooper St. in Downtown Santa Cruz across from Abbott Square and the MAH right next door to Laili Restaurant.
You can park in the Trader Joes Parking lot or the Galleria parking lot. Both are free parking. There is also a paid parking structure behind the Galleria.
You can call us at the Annex at 831-247-1987.
Speak to your therapist about what’s going on with your skin or body based on the treatment you are visiting us for. Let them know what your primary goals are for your treatment and they will make sure to work with the goals along with anything they see that is important to address.
Yes, of course you can. If possible when scheduling let us know what kind of gift card you will be using. This will also help us identify if it is a donation gift card and a particular practitioner it is intended to be
We also accept SpaFinder and SpaWeek gift cards for services. Unfortunately SpaFinder and SpaWeek can not be used for products.
Yes, due to COVID, we are by appointment with the occasional ability to accommodate a walk-in guest. Please call 831-600-8053 or email hello@yosowellness.com to book your appointment. You can also schedule an appointment online. If you have the MINDBODY Mobile App you can also schedule with us through that site.
If you are unable to make your appointment please call and email us. You can absolutely reschedule your appointment however we do have a 24 hour reschedule policy. Please see our Cancellation policy FAQ.
If you call within less than 24 hours of your scheduled appointment or are a no-show, a 100% fee of your service will be applied.
If you are cancelling less then 24 hrs and would like to reschedule we charge a 50% rescheduling fee due to the last minute cancel/reschedule.
We certainly do not want to charge anyone so please be considerate of your practitioners time reserved for you as you would for a doctor appointment or hotel reservation. We do require a CC number at time of booking appt. to honor our cancellation policy.
You can like us on Instagram and/or Facebook to enjoy monthly promotions and specials. We also offer 15% off for referrals to the referrer and referee as a thank you and welcome
Yoso the Annex is a wellness lifestyle shop for all and an extension of Yoso Wellness Spa as well as our online retail store.
The Annex is dedicated to treasured self care, clean beauty, intentional wellness, earthy goods and high vibrations with sustainable products honoring our beliefs for non-toxic living for your optimal health inside and out.
You will find an array of consciously curated and tested wellness products for skin health, non-toxic living, oracle cards and crystals, astrology planners, wellness rituals, feel good gift cards, C B D products for internal and external, herbs, body products and so much more.