Meet Maria Dumler | Owner of Body Orbit

We had the good fortune of connecting with Maria Dumler and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maria, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I decided to start Body Orbit, it was a mix of personal experience and business strategy. I’ve always been passionate about health, wellness, and beauty, and I wanted to create something that actually made a difference in people’s lives.
I struggled with poor circulation and water retention myself, so I know firsthand how frustrating it can be to find effective solutions. That’s why I chose body roll massage therapy—because I personally saw results and knew others could benefit from it too. It wasn’t just about starting a business; it was about bringing something new and effective to Houston, making Body Orbit the first of its kind in the city.
I also wanted to make sure the services were affordable and sustainable, so people could maintain their results long-term instead of just coming in for a quick fix. More than anything, I wanted to create a space where people could feel good in their own bodies—whether they’re working on cellulite, muscle recovery, or overall wellness. That’s what drives me every day.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Body Orbit is more than just a business to me—it’s a reflection of my dedication, hard work, and belief in myself. What sets us apart is that we are the first business in Houston to offer body roll massage therapy, a powerful treatment for circulation, lymphatic drainage, and cellulite reduction. My goal is to provide affordable and effective wellness solutions, helping people feel stronger, healthier, and more confident in their bodies.

Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy—it took years of perseverance. I came to the U.S. 11 years ago from Italy, completely on my own, without family and without speaking English. I had to learn everything from scratch, adapt to a new culture, and push myself beyond my comfort zone. So when I faced challenges in opening my business, I reminded myself of how far I had already come. If I could build a life from nothing in a new country, I knew I could overcome anything.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to never give up, even when things feel impossible. There were moments when I doubted myself, when I felt overwhelmed, but I always told myself: If others have done it, I can too. That mindset helped me push through every obstacle, from learning a new language to navigating the complexities of starting a business.

One of the most rewarding moments in my journey was seeing my first client come in consistently and be extremely happy with her results after just a few sessions. It reminded me why I started this in the first place—because I’ve personally struggled with poor circulation and water retention, and I know how frustrating it can be to find real solutions. Seeing her transformation, her excitement, and her renewed confidence makes my day and reinforces my passion for this work.

Through Body Orbit, I want to inspire others to believe in their own potential. I built this business from the ground up, not just to help people feel better physically, but to prove that with determination, anything is possible. My story is about resilience, passion, and the belief that if you keep going, you will always find a way forward.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Having lived in Houston for 11 years, I love showing my international friends the best of the city when they visit. Here’s my go-to week-long itinerary for an unforgettable trip.

Day 1: Arrival & Relaxation
After a long flight, the first stop is Body Orbit for a lymphatic massage—the perfect reset. Then, dinner at Taste of Texas for a true Texas steakhouse experience.

Day 2: Texas Culture & Rodeo (If in Season)
A day at the Houston Rodeo for bull riding, BBQ, and live music. Lunch at Goode Company BBQ

Day 3: Sushi
Lunch at UME, my favorite sushi spot.

Day 4: Museums & City Views
Exploring the Museum District, lunch or dinner at Lupe Tortilla—a must for authentic Tex-Mex and margaritas.

Day 5: Outdoor Fun & Hidden Gems
Biking along Buffalo Bayou Park, coffee at Paris Baguette, lunch at Davanti for homemade Italian pasta.

Day 6: Luxury & Leisure
Shopping at River Oaks District, lunch at Toulouse or Bari for European flavors, coffee at Mademoiselle Louise, and a relaxing evening exploring Houston’s vibrant nightlife.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my husband, who has been my biggest supporter from the very beginning. He is an incredibly hardworking entrepreneur, an amazing surgeon, and a professional car driver—a true example of what dedication and passion look like. His commitment to doing what he loves has always inspired me to push past my fears and go after my own dreams.
When I was scared to take the leap from my corporate job to start Body Orbit, he was the one who encouraged and motivated me to believe in myself. His unwavering support and confidence in me gave me the strength to pursue a completely different career path and build something of my own. I am beyond grateful to have him by my side, always reminding me that passion and hard work lead to success.

Website: https://www.thebodyorbit.com

Instagram: https://body.orbit

Facebook: Body Orbit