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Boreal Community Media

Meet your Cook County Neighbor: Philip Hanson

Jan 18, 2025 05:12AM ● By Editor
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A Boreal Community Media Exclusive - January 18, 2025


Philip Hanson is the owner of Hanson Holistics in Grand Marais


How did you land in Cook County?  What journey led you here?

I was first introduced to Cook County by visiting my Great Aunt and Uncle as a young child who lived in Schroeder on the Shore of Lake Superior. They took me hiking along the Temperance River and I instantly fell in love with the area. Fast forward 30 years of many many visits and trips to the North Shore, my wife Kelly and I got married at the Chalet at the top of Lutsen Mountain. We started coming up several times a year with our kids, and decided instead of moving up after we retire, we would give our kids the opportunity to live in such a special place. 


Would you share a bit about your business, Hanson Holistics?  How long have you been doing this type of work?

I started Hanson Holistics 18 years ago after working for several Chiropractic  and Acupuncture clinics. I have always been passionate about helping others, and was told early on that I had a gift of healing with my hands. I have been studying and practicing different forms of Healing Arts since 1997 including Massage, Myofascial Release, Cranio-Sacral Therapy, Reflexology, Pre Natal Massage, Lymphatic Drainage, Polarity Therapy, AIS (Active Isolated Stretching), Thai Massage, Reiki etc. My style of Massage & Bodywork addresses the structure, soft tissue, and nervous system through a variety of modalities that I have trained in over the course of 28 years. 


What is your favorite part about living and working in Cook County?

My favorite part of living in Cook County is the beauty we are constantly surrounded by and the access to outdoor recreation. Nature soothes my soul. And I am loving living in a small community, getting to know people on a first name basis that I get to see throughout my day by working in the community. 


What is your favorite part about living and working in Cook County?

For those preparing to move here, I would advise them to be aware of the housing shortage and  the cost of living. Things aren’t as accessible and come at a cost, but it’s part of the charm and well worth the tranquility. 


What are some of your own ways that you practice self-care?

My self care regimen consists of regular workouts at the YMCA followed by a sauna session, eating a primarily whole foods diet, spend time in nature for reflection, and occasional fasting. I practice gratitude on a daily basis, look at Life as a gift, and believe Love is the Point. 


Do you have any New Year resolutions for 2025 that you wish to achieve? 

I don’t really have any New Year resolutions, other than getting stronger, healthier and exploring more of the North Shore. 

 

 

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