About Us & Why We Exist

About Us & Why We Exist

The Iron Cactus was born out of a moment of complete clarity. I, Erica, founder, was traveling for work —deep in a season of burnout, anxiety, and heavy addiction—when I asked the universe for a sign: Should I follow my dream and open a wellness center? I turned a corner and there it was—a glowing marquee that read “The Iron Cactus.” I got chills from head to toe. That was my yes.

When I looked up the symbolism of a cactus, I found resilience, protection, endurance, and healing. It mirrored everything I had been searching for—and everything I hoped to create for others. Shortly before that trip, I had completed my MBA. But the moment I received my diploma, I felt dread. I knew this path no longer aligned with who I was becoming. So I left corporate, went back to school for health and wellness, and began a new chapter in my life.

After quitting, I spent two months in India studying yoga and immersing myself in the practices that would lay the foundation for The Iron Cactus. Today, our space reflects a dream I had in my hardest moments: a safe, welcoming place with everything I wished I had when I needed it most.

We call it the clubhouse—a place where everyone is welcome to stay, breathe, connect, and just be. Whether you visit for yoga, our vegan/vegetarian gluten-free café, reiki, sound healing, infrared saunas, salt therapy, vibroacoustic frequency bed, or health and happiness coaching—you’re invited to come as you are. We offer sobriety support, too—because I’m proud to be many years sober, and I know what it’s like to start over and need real tools, not just talk.

Every product in our wellness store and every item on our café menu is selectively chosen and tested by us first. Nothing makes it through our doors without first going through our hands—and our bodies. We do the research and trial so you don’t have to. That’s our promise: no guesswork, no gimmicks—only what we genuinely use, love, and believe in.

The Iron Cactus is more than a wellness center. It’s a community. It’s purpose-driven. And it’s global in heart—we’re honored to give back through our scholarship initiative in India, where we help send children to school. That mission was born during my time there and remains a cornerstone of our joy. We’re proud to have been featured on NH Chronicle, sharing our story and mission with the wider New Hampshire community.

We’re here to walk with you as you discover what well-being means for you. With love, presence, and the belief that healing happens when we come home to ourselves—again and again.