Gift a “Mieli” massage! (Spisanie 8)

Eli, studio Mieli is the best massage studio in Sofia (according to TripAdvisor) — what is the secret of this success? – In Finnish, Mieli means “heart, mind and soul”. Mieli massage comes from the heart, gives wisdom to the mind, harmony to the soul and vitality to the body. People arrive tired, in pain and preoccupied, and leave smiling and inspired.

Instead of a huge list of massage types, we offer time for you. You only choose how much time to give yourself – 60, 90 or 120 minutes. The rest is our job. We have a rich set of techniques: classic (Swedish), Hawaiian style, deep tissue, bamboo, fire therapy, spa treatments for face and body, aromatherapy, hot stones, honey detox, reflexology. The gift cards we offer (not vouchers!) are also by duration – because let the person choose what they need.

How did you decide to open this studio? – Years ago I collected debts – in a company, a law firm, a credit centre. I knew it was not my calling. One morning I woke up thinking: “Elena, how long will you keep taking from people?” I decided it was time to give – vitality, calm and lightness. That was 7 years ago.

Who is your great teacher? – I divide my path in two – before and after Emil Eleftherov. He inspired me to take part in the Balkan massage competition in Serbia, where I won a medal for innovation. I have also taken master classes with Radu Gligor from Romania, with Slav Marinov, with Daniela Caracuolo from Italy (fire and bamboo therapy), and two levels of myofascial techniques with Maria Jakob.

What do Bulgarians most often complain about? – Most often the upper shoulders and shoulder blades – from overload and poor posture. We work a lot from home, on uncomfortable chairs, drive hunched, stare at our phones. The good news is most people have made massage a habit – I have over 20 clients who come every week.

Is there an energy exchange during massage? – It is inevitable. That is why we make sure to be in energy balance. We work with our hands and with our heart.

How often should we get a massage? – When working on a problem – twice a week. To maintain balance – once a week is wonderful. The body knows, awaits its massage and feels in balance.

Elena Ivanova is the creator of the most loved massage studio in Sofia according to TripAdvisor. She is a student of Emil Eleftherov. A video of Elena performing the “Mieli” massage was nominated by the International Massage Association in the category “Best massage teaser” at the IMA's World Championship in Massage in 2023.