I Love My Job: Etya Novik Loves the Business of Healing

As the parents of an asthmatic child, Etya and Tal Novik said they had been searching for drug-free treatments to ease their daughter's breathing difficulties.

During a trip to Israel, they learned about the concept of salt therapy or halotherapy which is a drug-free, natural treatment that eases coughing, congestion, and breathing difficulties, and other symptoms associated with these conditions.

In June of 2010, the Noviks established Respira Salt Wellness Center located at 472 Springfield Ave. in Berkeley Heights, NJ. 

"When you sit in the salt room, the controlled temperature, humidity and concentration of salt particles provides the optimal environment for healing. Inhaling the salt micro particles widens your airways and promotes healing in the bronchial tubes," said Etya Novik.

Respira also offers massage, Reiki, chair yoga, and meditation classes in the salt rooms.

We spoke with Etya about her new found passion and why she loves her work. 

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PATCH: What prompted you to do what you are doing right now? What was the inspiration? 

ETYA: I was in Israel with my family and heard about salt therapy there for the first time. The concept of a natural treatment for respiratory problems seemed too good to be true. I wondered why Americans didn’t know about this therapy, which is very well known in Europe.  

Typical medications prescribed for asthma and other respiratory problems can have very strong side effects.

My daughter was diagnosed with asthma when she was a year old. I remembered how torn I was giving her the corticosteroids and bronchodilators prescribed by her doctor.  I wish I had this option available to me at that time.  

PATCH: Why do you love what you are doing right now? 

ETYA: It sounds cliché, but being able to help people so directly—especially with their health--is extremely rewarding.

When clients tell me that coming here has helped them feel better, I know that all the hard work is worth it.

I have always admired doctors, nurses, and people who worked in professions that help others in a tangible way. I didn’t think that was in the cards for me.  

In addition, owning and operating Respira is so different from anything I’ve done before and has given me a chance to learn new skills.

It has also enabled me to be more involved in the community and get to know lots of interesting people.

PATCH: What do you think people should keep in mind as they choose their life's work? 

ETYA: If you have the luxury of being able to pick exactly what you want to do, by all means, go for it.

You want to look forward to your work and feel that you are being challenged.

In this economy you don’t always have that opportunity. Be open minded and try to develop skills that lie outside your comfort zone. You may find that you enjoy things you didn’t think you would!

PATCH: Anything else you would like to share with our readers? 

ETYA: Don’t pigeonhole yourself.  Be open to new experiences and to new paths. Life is so unpredictable and can lead you to opportunities you never imagined.