I first saw Alison about 10 months post-partum when I felt like I just needed to get everything "right" again after the crazy body changes of pregnancy and birth. She was such a perfect choice with her extensive knowledge of pregnancy/birth/mama bodies and I left feeling AMAZING. Like floating on a cloud. Which was probably all the pent up toxins coming out of muscles but she did that! It was the best massage of my life. And I love massages. So I keep booking and recommending her even though it will make it harder for me to book appointments. #yourewelcome A session with Alison is downright healing. Her extensive body knowledge paired with her grounded but somehow still effervescent nature make for a wonderful massage experience (and hour or more of lightweight free therapy/cathartic convo if you're chatty like me!). She's about the work and isn't going to try to sell you 25 products and a facial. I have a crap ton of ailments and injuries which have thrown other massage therapists for a loop, but they've been nbd for Alison. She works with and through them without any further injury or irritation. I've tried soooo many different massage therapists through the bay and truly feel like I've found the best. Book your appointment and thank me later! read more

I cannot praise and recommend Alison, her healing hands and presence enough! I started seeing Alison (based on her wonderful reviews) shortly before the pandemic for my wellbeing. I left my first session knowing I was in the hands of an incredible healer. She is so attuned to your mind, body, and spirit and knows exactly what you need. Grounded, highly skilled, experienced and intuitive, Alison cares, nurtures, and renews you and your body. She is a wonderful, real person who genuinely cares for you and your health. She also lets you know what's going on in your body and gives you excellent self-care suggestions. I returned in 2021 after some injuries and health issues and continue to be deeply grateful for the excellent personalized massage and therapeutic treatment I receive from her. With Alison you don't just get a massage -- you get a deep, personalized healing that you can feel the benefits of for days. read more

I've been getting bodywork somewhat regularly for about 6 years. I'm a firefighter and only say that to convey that I use my body and lift heavy things as part of my job. I decided that despite the costs of bodywork, I value my body/ability to do my job more. So, in that time, I've found only two (the other moved to NY, so forget about her, this isn't about her anyway, ha!) out of countless therapists (I'm guessing over 50ish?), where I'm on their table thinking, "this person (in this case, Alison Luke) figured out what they're supposed to be doing in life." That's not to say that Alison couldn't do many, many other things very well, but she's absolutely fantastic at bodywork. I believe she naturally reads the body and it's needs very well and has the intuition and training to address those needs through her massage. Highly recommend. Also worth mentioning, she's super cool and personable, hospitable and she fosters an excellent atmosphere for healing/relaxation. read more

Throughout all of my bodywork experiences (including a world renowned rolfer!), Alyson Luke holds the title for the most intuitive and skilled hands, by far. I am extremely particular with the type of bodyworker I receive. I have relied on frequent bodywork visits for about 10 years. My Last bodyworker moved so I was back on the hunt! I tried out a variety of 6 different deep tissue therapists. Next thing I know.... BAM! The Universe has me on the table of the best body worker I've ever come upon. My first visit, Alyson strategically and methodically worked with my body to understand it. It was followed by precise and direct application of the proper amount of pressure to the problem area of course, but more importantly the surrounding areas which are the root causes of most issues anyhow. I learn a ton from her. Since she loves her craft, she knows the body more than many doctors I've met. She has healing hands and a heart of GOLD. I sure hope Alyson likes me because she will be seeing me weekly, on her table, as long as she is willing read more

It's been 5 years since my first review, and I wanted to update - Alison continues to be an incredible massage therapist and she remains my go-to. She helped reset my body during recovery from a broken foot, and she's regularly helped me alleviate pain due to tendonitis in my forearms and wrists (which is, big surprise - NOT originating in my forearms and wrists but in spots around my neck and shoulders she has a knack for finding). I refer her to people often and the story is always the same: "She's amazing!" In addition to her massage expertise, Alison also happens to be a wonderful human being who is great fun to be around. I always leave her studio with a smile on my face. read more

"You're a blessing." That's what I told Alison Luke when I walked into my session this morning. She was recommended to me by a number of friends when I was searching for someone to help with pain from large breasts, a car accident and poor posture. I was a wreck. With Alison's help I have improved immensely. I wish I could see her more often! She's super intuitive in finding the spot that needs work, as well as knowledgable on how all the pieces of your body are connected to make a whole. She explains things to me when I have questions about where the pain might be coming from. When I leave her space I feel amazing. My body feels light and relieved of the pain it was feeling. You can't help but go back for more! Her hands are worth more than their weight in gold! On a side note: Alison's a great conversationalist, but will work in silence if that's your preference. She's super funny. Her choice of music is always spot on. She's a human being who radiates kindness and that really shows in her desire to help others feel better. As long as she's local, she'll be my go to massage therapist. Excuse me while I go make my next appointment! ;) read more

Took my 17 year old daughter to Alison for much needed body work. My kid loved Alison's healing touch & after 90 minutes she was transformed into someone with much more endearing qualities. Being a certified massage therapist, I've exposed my daughter to massage since she was a toddler. She informed me that Alison was in a league of her own! Thank you Alison...we'll be back! read more

Some people have jobs. Some people have professions. Some people have callings. Alison doesn't just like what she does, it is what she was meant to do. I was introduced to Alison through her "Friday nights at 9 are half off for moms" special (are you a mom? do it.). That was over a year ago and I've seen her every two weeks since, because not only is Alison wonderful at stress reduction (what most folks go to a massage therapist for) her work is truly therapeutic. When Alison noticed some residual swelling in my ankle from a recent sprain, I told her not to worry about it since I sprain it every six months or so. Alison was incredulous. Pain and fear of pain was something doctors told me I would just need to live with, but Alison knew better. She has worked years worth of scar tissue out and works to train my feet to do what they are supposed to do - keep me upright. Thanks to her I didn't sprain my ankle in over a year. Many times I stepped badly and my ankle has made the movement that previously would have landed me on my butt and in a brace for 6 weeks, but now that the scar tissue is gone, my ankle bends instead of breaking. But, back to her specialty with moms...Alison is specialized in prenatal and postnatal massage. Not only does Alison know how the prenatal and postnatal body is different and the many ways it can be helped by massage therapy, she knows that prenatal and postnatal women have needs beyond just added pillows. Since you have the option to have her come to your house (don't worry she also knows that housecleaning is the last of your priorities) you can keep your new baby in the room with you. Nursing? A little leaking is completely normal, as are feeding breaks and she will work out those "breastfeeding neck" knots. Part of the reason Alison is so great with prenatal and postnatal clients is she is also a doula. Knowing that Alison with be along side me and my husband helping both of us through the birth is another wonderful stress reliever. read more

Now THAT's what I'm talkin about! I've been getting professional massages for over 25 years and Alison Luke is one of the best massage therapists ever. Referred by my chiropractor, I went to Alison because my back had cramped up and was making it painful for me to walk or get out of chairs. I was in extreme pain. After working with her for 4 weeks, I am now able to get out of my chair without stabbing pain and am able to walk without severe pain. I am on the road to recovery and am extremely happy with Alison's skills. For my 1st session, I opted for the 1-1/2 hour hot stone therapy. Alison welcomed me and made me feel comfortable. She is strong and gentle at the same time, and extremely knowledgeable about muscles. She found the line between just enough pressure and too much throughout the massage. After the massage was over, Alison had a plate of watermelon, almonds, carrots and olives to snack on, along with water, which felt very nurturing. She demonstrated some stretches to loosen up my tense back muscles, and gave me instructions on to ice my knees. She showed me how to walk with my hips tucked forward, saying it would take the pressure off the nerves in my lower back. I had been hunching forward, thinking that would help, but it turns out that leaning forward actually put more strain on the nerves, making it more painful. She told me it would feel uncomfortable at first. I said, "I'll take uncomfortable over screaming pain any day of the week." Everything she told me to do has helped tremendously. She's a wonderful masseuse and I'm happy to recommend her. read more

Just returned from my massage with Alison and have to let others know that she is the best! So professional, so knowledgeable about the body. I look forward each time to stepping out of my micro-manager-mode and letting Alison's instincts guide her to what area of my body needs 'work'. She never fails to find the right spots. I am a Senior, and regular massages from Alison are so helpful in maintaining an active life style. read more

Just had another massage with Alison, after a time away.... She found all my sore muscles and the tight ones, and pushed them just far enough to really loosen me up. She's confident but completely open to suggestions, considerate about scents (or your preference for none), prompt and flexible. The only problem is that she's so darned easy to talk to, I often talk for our entire hour, rather than zenning out! Darn that charisma. Seriously, I recommend her without hesitation to any man or woman who needs loosening up and relief from pain. read more

Alison is really good at her job. I feel so grateful to have met her! And my neck is too. She is very knowledgeable about how muscles, ligaments and healing works in the human body. Not only that, but she really tunes into your body and helps relieve long-held tension. Plus, like other posters said, she is a doula. I didn't use her as a doula, but my first session with her I was 7 months pregnant with my second child and had soo much tension for being on bed rest. She was so supportive of me and continues to be post-partum. A real wonderful find. Thanks, Alison! read more

Alison is an Alameda gem! My ever so considerate husband found her services on Yelp as a recommended pre-natal specialist and gifted me a series of 6 sessions for throughout my pregnancy + postpartum. On top of being super in tune with bodywork, she is highly empathetic, a great listener and funny too! The massages were always on point - she positions your body in the best alignment (especially while pregnant) and has tremendous strength, but awareness with comfort. My pregnancy wasn't the easiest and postpartum hit me like a ton of bricks (injury/ depression) so Alison became a shining light during some pretty dark moments - her background experience training as a Doula is so evident and she's truly so compassionate/ caring. I enjoyed our conversations as much as the massages, and felt earnest support from her - truly a wonderful person and asset to this island community. Highly recommend her and suggest investing in the massage series for a discount in final massage! read more

This is a long overdue review for the fabulous Alison Luke. If you want a professional, personalized massage Alison is your gal. She also has a great personality and deeply cares for her clients and their needs. read more

Alison will find spots you didn't even know existed. I went to her for pre-and post-natal massages and now for back and neck work. She is the best. read more

Alison is the best in the business. She is knowledgeable, caring and strong. When Im on the table i don't have to say anything. She can feel and knows exactly what needs to be done. I've been to many masseurs, no one compares. Plus she's a lovely person. Win, win. read more

Went for a prenatal massage a while back and Alison was amazing! Not only is she a skilled and intuitive massage therapist, but she also got me talking about the rollercoaster of pregnancy and offered kind counsel and support during the session. I recommend her to everyone in Alameda looking for a massage therapist. read more

I went to Alison with chronic back pain. In addition to a great massage she talked to me about my life to help me identify why I was experiencing pain and how I could address it. She is very knowledgeable! Every time I go for a massage I come out feeling great from the therapy and the conversation with Alison - she is always so positive. read more

I started seeing Alison because I was running and injuring myself, and then barely recovering and getting injured again. In her kindly forthright way she encouraged me to be kinder to my body, and over the course of a few rehab massage sessions she managed to reduce my pain and increase my mobility significantly. She is incredibly skilled. Highly recommended! read more

I cannot recommend Alison enough. I've been going to see Alison for massages for over 6 years now. I met her when I was pregnant with my second child and was looking for a doula. Am I glad I found her! Not only she was a spectacular, thoughtful, caring, nurturing doula who carried me through every single contraction of many hours of labor... she turned out to be an amazing massage therapist with deep knowledge of pre- and postpartum bodies. She is a great listener and a problem solver. Every time I leave Alison's studio after a massage, I feel weightless. Her happy, plant-filled studio reflects her warm, nurturing personality and feels like a retreat. If you are looking for a massage therapist, you won't find anyone better than Alison. read more

Alison is absolutely awesome. I have been seeing her regularly for more than eight years and no two massages are ever the same. Alison reads your body and works her magic to address what is happening in your body at that time. Over the years she has helped with injuries, strains, and as a new mom I could not imagine postpartum recovery without her. read more

I got referral to Alison from my personal trainer about 1.5 yrs ago. Alison is truly a pro, highly skilled who can actually feel your muscles and problem area. First time i lay down on her table, all i could think of how does she know this particular spot is hurting. Amazing !!! She works on each problem area as need it , i been going to different places as I have bad back since 18 years old ( i am 42 now ) . But I never found anyone as good as her. I often tell her that I love her as she truly restores blood flow and other sense to my injured spots on my back, hands, neck. read more

My wife and I have now been seeing Allison for over 5 years , she is always in a delightful mood, and quite professional. I guarantee you will leave rejuvenated. Do not Overlook her prenatal massage. read more

Amazing massage experience. The best I've had and I'm a bit of an addict. Alison Luke and team are therapeutic dynamos.

I am VERY particular about my massages. And today was one of the best ever, in any country. Alison took time to understand my needs up front, brought a great set up to my home with heated table and music, customized the products she used on my body, created a safe and healing space, listened to what came up for me, offered suggestions for issues discussed beyond the massage (e.g., stretches and other self-care), and produced a longing for weekly massages with her. And it felt GOOD (that's a gutteral goo-ood). I know three masseuses like that on the whole planet. read more

You know how there are massages that feel good and then massages that do good... Well the one I had with Alison was both. She has an amazing touch; the massage was very relaxing and comforting and just what I needed. She listened to what the issues were in my body and did a great job of focusing on those areas while not leaving the rest of my body feeling neglected. Her skills and techniques are impressive and she has great energy. I highly recommend her for anyone. read more

I came to see Alison after my migraines started up. I was in a lot of pain and through her care I've got my migraines under control. She is highly skilled and a wonderful person to spend an hour with! She takes such good care of me and really cares about my health. I feel lucky to have found Alison and I highly recommend her. read more

Alison Luke is an amazing bodyworker. She has helped me with many issues over the last five years. She is nurturing and kind, but she's not afraid to go after the problem areas aggressively. I always feel great after a massage with Alison. If you need some healing- this woman can definitely help you. She's a great person, a great bodyworker, a great investment. read more

Being pregnant with my first child has not been easy. I was hoping to be able to handle things physically on my own with modifying my usual exercise routine. However, at the 8 month mark, I was at the end of my rope! So I looked into prenatal chiropractic and massage work...thus stumbling onto Alison's trail here on yelp. With so many positive reviews, I decided to give her a shot. And I'm SO glad I did! She is so sensitive and intuitive...she takes the time to discuss with you what life events may be manifesting as physical issues, then uses a variety of massage techniques to work out the kinks! For all you mommies-to-be, you HAVE to go see her! It's an investment in yourself and your child. After seeing Alison in conjunction with the chiropractor, my baby (who had been crammed into the right side of my womb for the whole pregnancy) started exploring the newly opened space in the left side, which has been so great for us both, so I don't feel quite so "stuffed". Alison is not only a great therapist, she is a great person with a passion for helping people. She's a true healer and I plan on seeing her regularly up until the end of the pregnancy and after. Thanks Alison! read more

Alison is warm, professional and listens to you. She is able to pinpoint areas needing attention then applies an effective and straightforward approach based on her extensive knowledge. Her work has improved the quality of my life. I love my visits with her. read more

I don't know if I could ever say enough about how much Alison has helped me. Her massages are truly therapeutic and she cares about helping you be in a state of true wellness, during the massage and in your life. I have been seeing her for years, and she's helped me resolve so many bodily issues! I come away from her feeling a sense of true wellness welling up within me and it affects me emotionally in a positive way as well. She is absolutely the best massage therapist I have ever been to. Also, her space is beautiful and relaxing, on the Alameda Marina. The first time you go there you have to navigate your way, but after that it's a breeze, and your massage takes place amidst the sound of water, seagulls and boats tethered to the harbor. Quintessential Alameda at its best. read more

Alison's great - she has a very caring and nurturing touch, she goes the extra mile to personalize your session, and she uses a mix of modalities tailored to your particular body issues. Also, it's really convenient that she comes to you, that way when you're finished you can just continue to relax at home instead of having to jump right back into your car and chaos. I will definitely be seeking her out again at the first available opportunity! read more

What I love about massages from Alison is that she takes the time to find out about your particular issues. Then, once the massage begins she really pays attention to your muscles and what you and your body are telling her in order to make your session exactly what you need. Because of this, no two of my massages from Alison have been the same, but I have come away feeling relaxed and refreshed after each one. If you want a massage that is truly worth your time and money, I highly recommend calling Alison. read more

I have seen a fair number of massage therapists in my life. Alison is hand's down the best massage therapist I have ever experienced! Alison is a true professional and an amazing person. I am an Occupational Therapist by training and have a background in teaching yoga, so I know human anatomy. When I am on the table, I can tell the depth of a massage therapist's knowledge of the human frame. And, Alison really, really knows human anatomy and addresses musculoskeletal problems in a way that shows the depth of her professional knowledge and experience. I have been seeing Alison recently for chronic pain and inflammation in my left leg that results from how I hold stress and being overly right-side dominant. During our initial visit, Alison took the time to thoroughly interview and evaluate my condition and lifestyle and stressors. And, with each visit she takes the time to follow up on new developments. She takes the time to educate her clients in a very understandable way, so that you can incorporate stretches, correct sleep positioning etc into your life. If you are interested in the highest level of self-care, I highly recommend you see Alison! It has been life changing for me. read more

Literally, hands down, the best masseuse I have encountered this lifetime. And I have probably been massaged by over 40 different professional masseuses. Alison is a gifted, thoughtful, kind, generous and very smart when it comes to the quality of care she provides for her patients and for running her business. My husband and I have been monthly clients for 6 years and we look forward to many, many more. Our parents, family and friends from all over the world always request scheduling time with Alison when they come to Alameda. read more

Alison is the best. She is kind, warm, funny, encouraging, and a damn good massage therapist. I have seen her for both regular and prenatal massage sessions and am always amazed at how much better I feel walking out of her office. Even when there are weeks or months between our visits, she always remembers me and my individual needs (impressive considering how popular she is!). On top of that, she is always easy to talk to and I kind of want to hang out with her. Is that weird? Oh well, either way, if you are looking for a massage therapist, look no further! Alison is your gal. read more

I have continued seeing Alison on a regular basis, now for over 3.5 years and am still impressed at how awesome her work is and how she gives consistently great massages every time. Each session feels totally customized not only to my overall needs generally, but also to what is going on with my body at that exact time. Her intuition around areas that need work is astounding. She is so incredibly knowledgeable and her experience shows during your massage, when she answers any questions you have, and when she gives you recommendations for any stretches or other home care to improve your overall well being. read more

Alison's massages are the best. I always leave feeling like I was able to hit the "reset" button. Refreshing and invigorating but also relaxing. She finds and focuses on problem areas so you feel better for days, not just immediately following your appointment. Highly recommend going to see her! read more

If I could give Alison 10 stars I would! I have only seen her 3 times so far for prenatal massage and she is truly a magic worker and just all around magical. I can really tell she loves her work and loves people. She really seems to care about not just my pain and my pregnancy but my whole emotional self. She takes time before and after each session to get to know more about me demonstrating her deep knowing that body issues come from many different places. and she often has recommendations for ways i can support my mind and body outside of our sessions. Sometimes I think she has x-ray vision because she is so intuitive and finds past injuries or problem areas I have not even told her about- some not even I was tuned into! I also love that she uses all natural products. She uses pure coconut oil and my skin has never felt so soft as it does since I started seeing her. She also sometimes uses essentials oils to complement the therapy she does which I have found really beneficial. She is a great communicator and always asks about my needs even for little things like playing music etc. I think that her soul ultimately seems to be what heals- she has a goofy and very loving spirit yet is very professional in her own very authentic and special way. I had always thought that massage was just a nice thing to do for sore muscles but with Alison I now understand that it can be something that heals body, mind and spirit! I know it's cheesy but I just feel so grateful to have found Alison and so thankful to her for her support! read more

Amazing! So thoughtful, kind, and well versed in her abilities. Able to target my biggest areas of need and help me make a long term plan for getting more mobility after multiple injuries. read more