Introduce yourself (include your name, your business/what your do for living)
Tiffany Renee -Owner/Founder of Mahogany Point: Urban Medicine Woman
My practice specializes in a combination of Esoteric Energywork, Intuitive Guidance, Herbalism, and movement such as Tai Chi and Middle Eastern Dance. In other words, I am an Urban Medicine Woman (acupuncture coming soon!).
Tell us about your education background.
In 2009, I began studying Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (herbalism) at Midwest College of Oriental Medicine (MCOM) in Chicago, IL (now in Evanston, IL). My training in energywork began in 2008 with the study of Reiki, Manos, & other various forms of energywork under the patient guidance of JR Heiz of Chicago, IL. My training of Tai Chi has been carefully crafted, and passed along since 2008 by Tony Zayner of Chicago, IL. My journey into Middle Eastern Dance began with Jasmina in 2003 while at St. Mary’s College of Maryland (SMCM), where I studied music (flute), psychology, sociology, and anthropology.
How did you get started as an Urban Medicine Woman?
I come from a long, strong, and sometimes stubbornly independent lineage of women who were healers, caretakers, Intuitives, medicinal cookers/folk medicine –I feel as though the profession chose me. I have always been an intuitive, often approached by friends and strangers alike with their worries and concerns; but I didn’t catch on to my gifts until I began studying with JR and at MCOM. The two separate lineages provided a foundation and a connection that gave me the direction and tools I needed to truly understand the help I can provide to others. Being able to help people in a way that addresses their mind, body, and spirit resonated so strong with me that I think the Law of Attraction kicked in and even more people began to reach out and seek my help. Little by little, I’ve built a client base that have access to energywork and the tools they need to cope with their lives: tai chi, medicinal eating, meditation, etc.
What inspired you as a creative women?
I have the heart and soul of a musician and a dancer, so my life is heavily influenced by the drive to create & express myself in everything I do. Making a difference in someone’s life, in even the smallest way, is what brings me inspiration every day. Passing along the joy of dance, the quiet grounding effects of tai chi, the clarity and relief of esoteric energywork/intuitive guidance, the positive experience of herbalism, the list goes on and on! My continuous study of herbal medicine and healing is also built upon the same curious fascination and I find that (and those who practice it) to be a never-ending source of inspiration, as well.
What was your first job ever? Any funny or memorable story?
My first job was as a waitress at a big chain restaurant. I had never waited tables before and quickly discovered that I was terrible at it. The most memorable part of it was the day I left because one of the (over served) bar patrons was showing off his new clubs to his golfing buddies and whacked me square in the shin. The guys laughed, no apology, and my supervisor did nothing about it, so I dropped my apron and walked out right on the spot.
If you won a lottery today, will you still continue to build your business?
Absolutely, without a doubt.
Walk us through your day as an Urban Medicine Woman.
First thing in the morning (as I wait for the coffee to brew) I usually manage 3-5 sun salutations or one passage through my taichi form. I usually see my private clients for hour-long appointments in the morning to late afternoon. This can involve Esoteric Energywork, Intuitive Guidance, Herbal Guidance, or private lessons in tai chi or middle eastern dance. The late afternoon and evenings are reserved for teaching group movement classes (taichi or dance) and accommodating clients who need evening appointments. On a monthly basis, especially around New Year’s Day, I also cleanse/smudge living and/or working spaces.
What has been the highlight of your career thus far?
I strongly believe that everyone I encounter has something new to teach me, so the highlight of my career is the continuation of studying all of my disciplines. I thrive on making new connections and at the prospect of learning something new every day, be it in dance, medicine, or philosophical theory.
Where or what do you think you will be/do in the next 5 years?
Fostering the growth of my very own health center, complete with medicinal herbal garden.
Share a quote/advice that you’d like to tell the 25 year-old you.
You’re doing exactly what you’re supposed to be doing. So exhale & trust the universe.