Easy - the one word that comes to mind. And how a massage should feel. First, easy to schedule online. Then, easy to find and easy street parking in the neighborhood. When you get upstairs, such an easy-going, clean and relaxing environment, without the stress of hearing conversations in massage rooms next door or waiting in the room looking up each time a massage therapist walks out. It's one-on-one in his apartment and it's setup very comfortably. Now let's talk about Christopher - the nicest person you'll ever meet and you just want to be friends and hang out all the time. He's very adaptive to whether you want a quiet time to catch up on a nap, which I did last time, or a conversation about speakeasies that distracts from some of the pain of releasing tight muscles. Before he starts, he's a good listener and asks insightful questions to provide maximum relief. Once you're on the table, he's also very perceptive to what areas need more attention. He's kind, effective and truly cares to make sure his client has had a productive massage session. He doesn't rush you out but rather spends a few minutes on feedback to make sure you feel good. So easily a five-star experience! read more

Finally a true master of their trade! I have been searching for an amazing massage therapist for over a year all around Austin. I am a bit of a massage snob but honestly it's bananas to me that I couldn't seem to find anyone in the entire Austin area that seemed to know what they were doing- and I tried them all. Spas , private practice, sport masseuse physical therapy massage therapist you name it. Enter Chris. He knows the anatomy of your body so he is a true healer. I can't stress how important it is for a massage therapist to know anatomy. My tendinitis and tennis elbow always flares up throughout the year. I've had to go to acupuncture in the past but Chris has changed that! Now I just have to see him for a few sessions and it's gone! It's amazing. When I told Chris of my struggles with finding someone good he explained to me that in Texas massage therapist / masseuse only have to get HALF of the amount of hours needed to get licensed that people in New York need! Which explains a lot ! His setup is in his apartment ( which is common in NYC so it didn't bother me ) but for anyone wondering if that's sketch- it's not ! It just allows his pricing to stay competitive. Honestly - you will not be disappointed with a massage from Chris. The best of the best of the best. 100000000000 stars !!! read more

Deep Root Massage - Serenity - Massage Therapy Near Me

See all

Christopher is pretty fabulous and the communication from the time I scheduled my appointment and beyond was perfection. The space is relaxing and pristine... the massage incredible. He relieved so much of my fascia pain and followed up with me to make sure I was feeling better. I can't say enough good things about my experience at Deep Root Massage. He's a true professional and knows exactly what he's doing. He's so knowledgeable. His hands are magic and I recommend him highly. read more

This man is so amazing and gracious. The quality of care and consideration is unmatched. An unforgettable experience for sure!

Let me start with WOW, what an amazing deep tissue massage!!!! if you want a massage from someone who really knows what they're doing give Christopher a try, you won't be disappointed!! Totally worth your time and money!! read more

If you need a great Massage. I would highly recommend Christopher. He is a very talented massage therapist.

Deep Root Massage gave me the body work massage of my life today. It was the most intentional massage I've ever received, with the most experienced anatomy obsessed (yet organic) touch. It should be called something other than "massage" because it's on a completely different level than any massage I've ever received. It's body work. Is your massage therapist so into the human body that they invest hundreds of hours in extra curricular programs that allow them to study for the sake of the passion of learning? Does your massage therapist chart where you hold tension and where work was done in your session so they can be sure to see how your body shifts over time? I am amazed. Austin friends, work with Christopher. He is a passionate and humble genius obsessed with the human body. On top of that he is an incredible person. Highly recommend. read more

Chris is very knowledgeable and experienced. He not only gets to the root of the issue but is also interested in healing it. I highly recommend Chris! read more

Christopher is great- the kind of great you hesitate to leave a review for because everyone will find out about him and start booking! But I also believe in sharing great experiences with others, so here are my top 3 reasons I recommend Deep Root Yoga & Massage. 1. Effective: For at least a decade now I have relied on deep tissue massage to allow me to continue my daily workouts without any pain issues. By the time I came to Christopher, I hadn't seen anyone in almost a year because of lockdown and my shoulder was in bad shape. Within a few sessions, Christopher relieved the tension. Now I go in monthly for maintenance and, for me, this works perfectly. 2. Professional: Christopher is the consummate professional. For anyone rightly concerned about going to an apartment for treatment- don't be. His entire space feels like a spa and everything is done at the most professional and respectful level. 3. Genuine: Christopher is a genuinely nice and good person. He's fun to be around while still getting business done. I have no doubt if I was in an emergency pain situation, Christopher would find a way to work me in because he truly cares and is concerned about your well-being. read more

I just had my first ever deep tissue massage with Christopher. I came in with fears and hesitations but he was so caring and listened so well to my long history of chronic pain in head (occipital neuralgia) lower back and more recently after an injury, in my butt. I'd tried so many things for relief, but all were either ineffective or temporary. I was desperate. Christopher's method is deep, slow and probing, but not kneading and digging, which is what I had feared about deep massage. When it got too much, I'd tell him and he'd just hold steady at the spot and ask me to breathe into it. His knowledge of musculature and fascia is amazing and he explained what he was finding and how it might be affecting my "problem areas." I learned so much. But best of all, after so many years of disappointing treatments, this first massage has already made a difference. I love that his "Deep Root" approach goes to the source of the pain, not just superficially putting a temporary bandaid over it. Worth every penny. I can't wait until my next appointment. More healing is on the way! read more

I know Christopher first as a yoga instructor. He is one of the most meticulous and detail oriented people I have ever met! I thought, "based on how this guy teaches, he probably gives a damn good massage!" I thought right! Worth every cent and second! You will be thrilled with you're experience! read more

I have gotten a lot of massages over the years in a few parts of the country, and a few in Austin. But this. This massage was something ive never experienced. It was the best massage I've ever had. It was a deep tissue, and there was some discomfort, as there should be, but it all felt purposeful. Christopher knew exactly what he was doing the whole time and with each part of my body. I left floating. He is beyond professional, yet you feel a sense of comfort with him. It was a very relaxing and caring atmosphere. He also maintains the utmost cleanliness and sanitation procedures. read more

Highly recommended! Christopher's bodywork is fantastic and his knowledge of anatomy and physiology is mind-blowing. He's the real deal. Plus, he's a real cool guy. So glad he's in Austin now! His place is easy to get to and he greets you at the door. Inside is warm and cozy and clean. A very welcoming and relaxing environment. read more

I found myself in the uncomfortable predicament of having to see a body worker during covid -19 due to an old foot injury that was causing mobility issues/ muscle imbalances on the left side of my leg. I'm no stranger to bodywork myself; I'm in the field of yoga and anatomy and I was in a lot of pain, so I asked one of my top mentors who's connected to other professionals all over the states if he had any referrals for people who could help me (he also happens to be a national expert and author in the fields yoga, anatomy and breathwork). He without hesitation suggested Christopher Totaro with Deep Root Massage. I've been seeing Christopher since June and I'm so happy to have made the connection! I have experienced reduced pain in my foot and leg and I'm able to continue with my normal activities of an active lifestyle in dance, weight training and hiking again. Christopher is a true professional and always makes me feel at ease. I have also experienced the therapeutic benefits of reduced anxiety from my regular massages (something that's helping tremendously during these turbulent times) He also goes ABOVE and BEYOND on his Covid safety procedures: (you can read more about his safety procedures on his website) and has a reduced number of clients he's seeing to keep him and his clients safe while still providing this necessary service to those that need care during this time. In addition, Christopher is a caring, compassionate therapist (who also happens to be one of the most educated in his field): He regularly co-teaches with some of "best of the best" on human anatomy and dissection and comes with an applied knowledge about the human body that is rare for someone of his stature to possess!! The city of Austin is lucky to have such a talented and knowledgeable body worker, and I without hesitation would recommend him to anyone looking for a massage therapist. read more

Whether it's just for routine well-being/maintenance, or for a specific back, neck or shoulder injury, Christopher works magic every time. I'm amazed at his ability to make my injuries go away. Come to think of it- he has even helped me with knee injuries and tendinitis issues in my forearms, elbows and wrists! So it's not just neck back or shoulders, he works on full body. He comes from NY where it takes 3 years to become a licensed massage therapist. Human anatomy and massage is not just a "job" for Chris, it's a passion. And it shows. He takes notes of every visit and knows more about my past injuries than I even remember! And this helps him give me the best treatment every time. He doesn't just do the same massage to every client. He specifically caters each massage to each body type and to what's happening in that body at the current moment. The man knows his stuff and is worth it. More than worth it. You're worth it. Whether you're having specific issues or just looking for a great massage, Christopher Totaro is the man! It's more than massage, it's body work. I can't recommend him enough. read more

I have been getting massages from Chris Totaro for many years and can only say positive things! Chris is a fantastic massage therapist who cares deeply (pun intended) about his clients. His training and skills are beyond compare and honestly has given me the best massages of my life. I would 100% recommend Chris to all of my friends! read more

I was suffering from acute lower back pain during the pandemic and desperately needed relief. When other massage therapists were shut down, Christopher implemented hospital-grade precautions to treat people like me in need of therapy. He was a critical part of my rehabilitation, and I continue to see him routinely. The masks, face shields and temperature checks are gone, but the professional, high-quality massage therapy continues. Christopher does not offer spa services that make you feel pampered, he provides real, healing therapy that fixes what ails you. read more

I've only had one session with Christopher so far, but I have to say I was so impressed with the work he was able to do on my body in such a relatively short amount of time. I'm already booked to go back. Would highly recommend! read more

To limit what Chris does by calling it massage is a disservice to his talents. His detailed and nuanced understanding of the body paired with his talented and strong hands, results in the most incredible and beneficial experience. He found areas of muscle tension deep in my tissues, worked them out and left me with a whole new body. The location is great, his private studio is warm and inviting, and Chris is a master. He puts every bit of himself and his energy into each and every inch of your body. I highly recommend him. P read more

Chris has both passion and dedication towards the body's needs and is extremely thorough in making sure that what needs to be healed will be healed. His hands are strong, yet gentle... And he creates an wonderfully peaceful environment so you will be soothed away into relaxation! read more

I've been to Chris twice now and can't recommend him highly enough. This is not your average relaxing spa massage. He is a deeply knowledgable therapist who goes deep to achieve results. He changed my perception of what massage could be. I am very active but I've been experiencing mild back pain and low energy the last year... after a two hour session with him I felt like I could run a marathon. He is kind, intuitive, professional, and uniquely talented. **Note: he works from home. Some may be off-put by this, but don't be! It allows for a personal experience tailored to your body and schedule. You're not paying for the amenities or overhead of a spa, just Chris's expert techniques and full attention. For me, this is makes the experience more special and ultimately more effective. Could not recommend more! read more

I would like to express my deepest gratitude for the care and restoration I receive from Deep Root Massage. I've been working with Chris for a year now, and he is truly talented, empathetic and so kind. He is a master with his hands! He uses PNF-technique to open up my hip flexors, helping my body to recover from long days sitting at my desk and frequent travel. As a active person, finding an exceptional, intuitive and skilled massage therapist who could help me avoid injury, treat areas of pain/tightness and generally take good care of myself was so important to me. Chris takes the time to get to know you, is a genius when it comes to human anatomy, and each visit is customized to whatever I need in a given session. Do yourself a favor and book a massage, you will not regret it! read more

Christopher is one of the best massage therapists out there. Highly, highly recommend. He has a great understanding of human anatomy and physiology, which makes him so effective as a massage therapist. He's very attentive, diligent, and is highly professional. read more

Chris is almost shockingly knowledgeable about anatomy but still makes treatment an accessible and enjoyable experience. I always felt welcome in his home and safe on the table. Highly recommended. read more

Chris is amazing! I had the pleasure of working with him regularly for 3 years and can't say enough good things. His anatomical knowledge and attention to detail are incredible and he is a delight to work with. I am an endurance athlete and Chris's skill has helped keep me injury-free and doing what I love. I am devastated that he left New York and would wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone! read more

Christopher at Deep Root Massage is AMAZING!!! My 17 year old son (a select sport athlete) first went to see him to address a recurrent hamstring injury. Christopher identified and educated my son regarding how muscle groups affect each other and can compensate if injury is present. Not only was he was able to soothe the injury with deep massage, Christopher was also able to show him which muscles were compensating and which muscles needed to be strengthened to prevent future exacerbation of the hamstring injury. This information was KEY to tailoring my son's weight training regimen to keep his hamstring injury-free. Recently, my son had recurring right low back pain from punishing tournament schedules and overuse. We attempted to treat his lower back pain with Airrosti, but the pain was not totally mitigated. Re-enter Christopher and DRM. Christopher was able to work through the deep layers of muscle and the fascia up and down the back and on both sides of the body. He treated the body as a whole. He explained how fascia connects all of our muscles, bones, and ligaments like one big stocking, and he expounded that one unhappy part of the body causes consequences for other areas. We are not knocking Airrosti (it's a great treatment system), but we are ecstatic that DRM ended the pain for my son. My son even went so far as to say, "He knows his stuff. That was good." For a teenager, that might as well be gold medal praise! We wholeheartedly recommend Christopher at Deep Root Massage for his expertise, experience, and therapeutic genius. He is simply AWESOME! read more

Had a great deep body work session with Chris. I had just flown in from Berkeley and was in need of serious adjustment. Actually periformis, soas and obturator work (spelling not part of this review). I was having a hard time finding good local body work in Berkeley and happened to find myself in Austin for the weekend. I couldn't be comfortable for more than a few minutes (which made the 4 hour plane ride challenging) I had know Chris from his practice in Manhattan and knew of his great reputation. So I thought I'd get him to work on me. I was glad that I did. His hands are as wide as my back and seem to hit all the places that need work. He is strong enough to find the hot spots that need loosening up. And he knows the mechanics of the body -- so that moving a leg one way or the next actually works the hard to reach muscles. I won't pretend to understand anything about how these things work -- only care that they do. He did a great job. He takes the time to understand your needs to make sure he understands before starting. He's pretty accommodating as well and the place has a nice Zen feel. Definitely worth the effort and time. read more

I've had dozens of massages at 5-star spas all over the world and I can honestly say that Chris is the best practitioner I've ever worked with. 90 minutes later I wanted to cry with relief. I can feel the difference between the generic massages I'd received for years and an excellent therapeutic massage that relieved both my pain and stress. My doctor has suggested massage for years as a core therapy for chronic pain, but it's only after working with Chris that I'm committed to making massage "sacred time" on my monthly schedule. Can't recommend highly enough. read more

Great massage but watch out for his cancellation policy. He would rather massage you sick then let you reschedule. Super nuts to me. Missing one session cost him so much more in the long run. Will never go back. read more

I've had a periodic problem that a doctor diagnosed as sciatica about 20 years ago. He said "there's nothing you can do, it'll come and it'll go for the rest of your life." Seriously! So I found myself yet again enduring a bad episode recently and called Chris for an appointment. After checking out my mobility he suggested that the signs are actually consistent with piriformis syndrome, and set about a treatment plan in accordance with it. After 3 visits I am completely symptom free, and more than that, I now have someone I can go to and get results if I ever have a problem again. A huge success beyond my expectations! Highly recommended - Chris knows what he's doing. read more

Over the years I've had different people recommended Chris to me and finally this past weekend I scheduled a 90 minutes deep tissue massage session with Chris and I regret not going to him earlier. It was AMAZING! Besides what all the other reviews are raving about, which are all true needless to say, my body also felt very "cleansed" internally afterward. I guess that's what "deep tissue" massage does to some people. I never had any problem going to the bathroom, but I was really glad that I headed straight home after the massage session with Chris, because even though I ate nothing for at least 12 hours (long night of sleep and bikram yoga the morning before I went to Chris) I had to use the bathroom many times about an hour after the massage. I really think it's because of the massage, or maybe specifically the DEEP TISSUE massage method. Although I was empty stomach (except a ton of water that I drank before/during/after bikram yoga), I didn't feel hungry, I was refreshed, I was having the most amazing zen moment with my body. I think a successful massage experience has a lot to do with open communication, Chris is great at it. He's very thoughtful and always communicated with me when he was about to put a lot of pressure at areas that he knew would be tender and sensitive. Overall I would highly recommend Chris to anyone and I can't wait to go back. read more

I threw my back out a few days ago. I was lucky enough to be able to get a massage from Christopher right away! (Not always possible, but like I said, I got lucky!). From the moment I got up from the table, I was instantly better! No exaggeration, like 100%. Now, I've been going to Chris for years now, so I'm very well familiar with how amazing he is, but never had I gone in after such an emergency event and been able to experience first-hand that he truly can work wonders! I've always called him a magician when it comes to body work and now I know exactly why. The man is the best in town. Hands down! ;). This isn't just a job or a side hustle for him. He takes specific notes on exactly what your particular issues are. He knows what he's doing. He continues to study anatomy, as well as teach it. He's passionate about it. He truly cares. If you're on the fence, or just shopping around: let this be the sign you're looking for. Go and book him now! You'll be glad you did. read more

I'm an extremely athletic person, and often have minor - or not so minor - aches and pains. Chris has been instrumental in keeping me in tip top shape so that I can continue to do all the things I love to do. Not only is he a super talented massage therapist, but he is also a genuinely nice man who creates a space that allows me to truly relax during the treatment to get the maximum benefit to both mind and body. I highly recommend bodywork by Chris! read more

My mom is a massage therapist so I grew up getting massages often. But Christopher's massages are like none other! He is SO good at what he does. He cares deeply about his work, you can really tell. From the first contact to the way he works on your muscles... it's all sooo good! He's very detail oriented and that shows every step of the way. He really discusses things thoroughly before and after the session. I wish I could get massages alllllll the time! And with covid-19, he is doing EVERYTHING right to ensure that you're getting a massage safely during this time. Go see him!!!! read more

Chris is fascinated by the human body and how different each and every one of us is put together. If you have not taken his Bikram Yoga Class (as a side note) that would be a perfect opportunity for you to meet the man himself, he is one of my favorite teachers and it goes without saying his massage therapy is outstanding. He is knowledgeable, professional, detail oriented, considerate, in tune with your needs and creates an environment which is relaxing and thoughtful. I highly recommend Deep Root Yoga and Massage, you may learn a thing or two and dancing on your feet in no time. read more

I am not exaggerating when I say that Chris gave me the best massage of my life during my first appointment with him at Deep Root. He also has just a super nice, not creepy, calming presence. A friend of mine referred me to Chris knowing that I am always on the hunt for a massage that seems to hit the right spots. I have a spinal fusion due to scoliosis, and live an active life, so I need someone who understands anatomy and can work around the rods in my back carefully, but not timidly. Chris has an insane knowledge of anatomy and just "gets it." He is the first therapist I have had who was able to find these kind of buried trigger points in my neck. You know how when you get a massage and you are kind of silently thinking "a little to the left, up a little, close but not quite" and you end up distracted hoping the right area will get addressed? Chris just zeroes right in and is super open to hearing what your needs are and going to work. I have gone back to Chris several times since our first appointment and can't wait to see him again. I really can't recommend him enough. The money I spend here is worth every penny. read more

Chris is absolutely awesome. I have been seeing him on and off for 3 years. As someone who is an athlete and very active, he has helped me recover from countless injuries. He has helped me with.. - neck spasms i was having after a rock climbing incident. - lower back issues which left me incapacitated after playing in a basketball game - Rotator cuff injuries from rock climbing. - He has helped me recover after week long snowboarding trips. If you are dealing with any sort of injury, daily pain, or just want to recover from intense activity, Chris is your guy. read more

I regard myself a kind of connoisseur of massages - I get them all the time and am very particular. Chris did some things I've never experienced and it was all amazing (he also explained what he was doing so it wasn't weird or scary). He has an amazing technique and his knowledge base re the human body and all the quirks that create pain/discomfort is quite impressive. The environment is also nice - yes, it is his apartment but Chris has taken steps to make it really professional and cozy, not unlike other professional spaces but less sterile than the likes of those nail salon/spas - all well-suited for complete relaxation. Nice appropriate music and candles complete the scene. Chris definitely has a great bedside manner about him and added to the techniques he uses to make you feel better, he is definitely someone I will be going back to and recommending to friends. You can also tell that this is something Chris is passionate about, not something he's doing for a "job," and that makes a world of a difference. read more

Christopher is great at what he does! He's helping me work through various sports-related injuries. His knowledge, and constant willingness to learn and do more for my particular ailments is wonderful. He's extremely thorough, attentive and professional. I recommend him to friends constantly! read more

A few weeks ago I had my last massage at Deep Root in New York. Sadly, Deep Root has moved to Austin and I still live in the northeast. Chris is the best massage therapist I have ever had. Whenever I planned a trip to New York, I always tried to work in at least an hour of Chris's magic. A lot of massage businesses now focus on fussy treatments rather than solid technique. Chris has the rare combination of deep anatomical knowledge and expert technique. I first went to him when I was struggling with a longstanding injury in the hip/glute/hamstring area that I couldn't quite pinpoint. He asked lots of questions, did a lot deep work in that area, and that massage was the beginning of my recovery. Chris's massages are simultaneously healing, soothing and energizing. Lucky you, Austin! read more