July was recently declared by the US Department of Health & Human Services Office of Minority Health as Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. While the mental health of all US residents is recognized nationally in May, July’s designation points out the additional mental health barriers faced by individuals of color due to systemic racism and unconscious bias. Multiple studies have shown that having access to culturally competent and even culturally similar wellness professionals can make a big difference in achieving consistent mental wellness and overcoming various hurdles of daily life. Hudson County has a wealth of Black-owned wellness businesses for all to access. Each business specializes in a certain field and has unique and effective methods for connecting with its patrons. Read on to learn more about the Black-owned wellness businesses in the Hoboken, Jersey City, and Bayonne areas of Hudson County.
KenPilates | 706 Grand Street, Hoboken
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KenPilates is one of Hoboken’s newest fitness hotspots. This Pilates studio opened in early 2023, but owner Ken Montes de Oca is no stranger to the area. Ken started teaching at Fitness in the Park in Hoboken to grow his business name before opening his brick-and-mortar location on Grand Street. Ken is an expert celebrity trainer and certified Pilates instructor. He incorporates his Afro-Latino heritage into all that he does, including running his business. Earlier this year he shared with The Hoboken Girl more about the importance of having representation in a space that often lacks diversity. Follow KenPilates on Instagram @kenpilates.
Culina Health | 720 Monroe Street, Hoboken
Culina Health is a personalized nutrition care company based in Hoboken. While the services offered are fully virtual, the company and its founder, Vanessa Rissetto, have roots in the Mile Square. Culina Health is comprised of a team of Board-certified registered dieticians who are ready to work with individuals looking to improve their health through nutrition. Culina Health accepts most major insurance policies and has a host of professionals who can support the diverse needs of their clients. Follow Culina Health on Instagram @culinahealth.
Rhythm + Brows | 33 West 8th Street, Bayonne
Rhythm + Brows is a full-service, luxury eyebrow studio located in Bayonne. Services at this new space include brow lamination, lash lifts, facials, brow threading, and more — with ‘90s throwback tunes as the soundtrack. Owner Christelle Rahman got her start at European Wax Center in Miami, but both love and business opportunities brought her to New Jersey. She started her business out of her home in 2020 and then moved to a permanent location in Bayonne — which she just upgraded to this new + improved space. Follow along to see Christelle’s work on Instagram @rhythmxbrows.
Read More: A List of Black-Owned Businesses to Support in Hoboken + Jersey City
Suite Tee Nail Salon | 172 Newark Avenue, Jersey City
Suite Tee is self-described as an “urban oasis in Downtown Jersey City.” This nail salon, owned by Tee Hundley, is a true Jersey City staple. Tee has an impressive resume filled with high-end celebrity and corporate clients and she brings that expertise to the shop every day. No wonder the business has over 100 five-star reviews and has been featured by major media outlets like WPIX11, OWN, and Self Magazine to name a few. Services provided by Suite Tee include waxing, manicures, pedicures, and spray tans. To follow along with Suite Tee, check out the Instagram page @suitetee.
As U Wish Nail Spa | 319 Willow Avenue, Hoboken
Skyy Hadley is the owner of As U Wish Nail Salon in Hoboken. Skyy started her career in the beauty industry back in 1997 and has been a manicurist to the stars over the years working with A-listers like Kelly Rowland, Drew Barrymore, Uma Thurman, and Sean “Diddy” Combs just to name a select few. Her Hoboken studio provides all beauty needs from manicures and pedicures to waxing and spray tans. As U Wish also has a host of private and mobile offerings for even more luxury accommodations. To follow along with Skyy and her team, check out the business’s Instagram page @asuwishnailspa.
Fruiti Fi | 404 14th Street, Hoboken
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Fruit and veggies are two food items that everyone knows they need but can never seem to get enough. Fruiti Fi is solving that age-old issue with its delicious juices and smoothies. This plant-based juice and smoothie bar is perfect for people on the go who are looking to maintain a healthy diet. Guests can choose from fresh-squeezed juices and creamy smoothies for the perfect breakfast, meal replacement, or midday snack. Keep up with the latest from Frutii Fi on its Instagram page @fruiti_fi.
Four Fitness | 667 Montgomery Street + 161 Erie Street, Jersey City
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Four Fitness, founded by Marcisco Morrison, specializes in low-impact and functional training for all fitness levels. The ‘four’ in Four Fitness targets four main areas of the body — the back, legs, core, and chest — or maximum efficiency. Both locations offer multi-format training options including open gym and one-on-one training sessions. The Hamilton Park location is equipped with additional amenities like saunas, steam rooms, and an indoor pool. Keep up with Four Fitness on Instagram @fourfitness2hp.
Golden Green Leaf Juice | 125 Marshall Street, Hoboken, + Online
Health is wealth, as the saying goes, and the team over at Golden Green Leaf Juice takes that to heart. Golden Green Leaf Juice offers a full menu of cold press juices, smoothies, wellness shots, and small bites. The combination of fruits and vegetables is meant to support some of the most important functions in the body like immunity. Individuals can purchase products online and have them delivered within Hudson and Bergen counties or they can pick-up at the Marshall Street location. It’s encouraged to connect with the staff for pick-up times as they can vary. Read more about flavor combinations and benefits on Instagram @goldengreenleafjuice.
JCF Bootcamp | Online Only
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Back in 2008, Daris Wilson knew there had to be a better alternative to overpriced and often intimidating gym training sessions for women. Daris is a former Division 1 college athlete with more than a decade of experience in physical fitness. He understands the importance of community when reaching fitness goals and has worked hard to establish a community feel amongst his clients. JCF Bootcamp offers online fitness sessions, nutrition support, and accountability coaches to keep clients on track. To learn more about JCF Bootcamp, check out the business’s Instagram page @jcfbootcamp.
Lucas Dental | 235 Bloomfield Street, Hoboken
According to the American Dental Association, less than 4% of dentists in the United States are Black. Defying the odds is Dr. Robin Lucas of Lucas Dental. Lucas Dental is a pediatric and adult dental office with a full suite of services. Patients can work with the team at Lucas Dental to understand their dental needs ranging from basic cleaning to root canals, crowns, bridges, veneers, and more. Contact the office to schedule an appointment and follow along on Instagram @lucasdentalassociates.
Stop Crying Studios | 564 1st Street, Hoboken
Stop Crying Studios is a hidden gem in Hoboken for those looking to get an effective workout. The gym offers a variety of intense workouts including personal training sessions, circuit training, boxing classes, strength and condition, and group fitness classes. Coach Jon is at the helm of this studio and has multiple testimonials and before and after photos to prove his effectiveness. To learn more about Stop Crying Studios and to follow along, check out the Instagram page @jonpfitness.
SW3AT Sauna + SW3AT Wellness | 79 Hudson Street, Hoboken + 317 Central Avenue, Jersey City
The benefits of heat and sweat are seemingly endless, and they are all available at Sw3at Sauna in Hoboken. Sw3at Sauna is best known for offering sauna sessions complete with Bluetooth speakers, lavender-infused towels complimentary water. Sw3at Sauna also has a wide variety of offerings like hot yoga, salt caves, massage therapy, stretching, and more. Head to the business’s website here to check out the frequently asked questions to properly prepare for your upcoming session and follow the business on Instagram @sw3at.wellness.
Tousled Hair Salon | 500 Jersey Avenue, Jersey City
Tousled Hair Salon specializes in curly and textured hair and is located in Jersey City. Expert stylists work directly with each client to understand curl patterns and hair texture to help determine the best style for each person and to assist with ongoing maintenance. Many of the stylists at Tousled Hair Salon are training in multiple methods allowing for the best customer experience and outcomes. Be sure to check out the website here to understand more about how to prep hair prior to each appointment and for any questions. For more information and to see photos of the salon’s work, check out the Instagram page here.
See More: Luxurious Wellniss in Orange: From Online Brand to Booming Shop
Vibez Juice Bar + Café | 82 Hutton Street, Jersey City
Innovative, healthy and vegan — these are all words that describe Vibez Juice Bar + Café in Jersey City. At Vibez, customers can expect a host of freshly made juices, vegan soul food, pastries made daily, and an offering of health-conscious retail products. Owner Medjine believes that the customer’s experience is her experience and wants each person who comes in to feel cared for. Check out the business’s site here and the Instagram page @vibezjuicecafe.
Vision of Hair | 333 Adams Street, Hoboken
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Vision of Hair keeps Hoboken looking fresh. This full-service hair salon offers a premier experience for all guests. Haircuts, coloring, and styling are done by a team of professionals who are able to serve men, women, and children. Check out the business’s website to learn more about services and how to book. To keep up with the business, follow along on Instagram @visionofhair.
Pholk Beauty | 540 39th Street, Union City
Pholk Beauty was made for those who want to keep their melanin magic. This skincare line was created with women of color in mind. The ingredients used have been carefully selected to ensure that the skin concerns faced by women of color are addressed. Customers can shop online here or visit the Pholk Studio in Union City. Keep up with all of Pholk Beauty’s upcoming products on Instagram @pholkbeauty.
Walker’s Apothecary | 150 Bay Street, Jersey City
Walker’s Apothecary is a luxury facial care experience in Jersey City. The studio offers various facial and body treatments including customized facials, eyebrow maintenance, waxing, body treatments, nail art, and makeup application. Owner Shalea Walker has more than a decade of experience as a licensed esthetician and makeup artist. She believes in a highly customized approach for each person’s beauty needs. Keep up with the business by following along on Instagram @walkersapothecary.
