Prior to visiting Psoas Massage + Bodywork, I hadn't experienced a focused sports massage before - most of my past massages were more along the lines of spa, Thai, or general wellness sessions. Because of that, the experience here felt very different, especially with the more conversational atmosphere. The location is convenient to get to, whether ' walking, taking public transit, or arriving by rideshare. And it's easy to find - just up the stairs with clear signage. Stella is excellent! She immediately put me at ease and kept an ongoing dialogue throughout each session, which made the experience feel both comfortable and intentional. I purchased the intro pack, which included three sessions, and I booked all of them with her. The package also came with a private sauna session, which was a nice bonus that I used on a non-massage day. They provide towels, though it's worth noting there isn't a shower available if you need a fuller refresh afterward. Overall, the massage sessions have been beneficial, especially on days when I was feeling particularly tight or sore. Their focus is clearly on targeted wellness and bodywork, so if you're looking for a more traditional spa-like experience, this may not be the right fit. But if you want focused, intentional care, it's definitely worth visiting. read more

My massage with Robyn was incredibly disappointing--lazy technique, zero attention to detail, and to make it worse, Robyn was loudly slurping from a straw throughout the session. It happened repeatedly (at least 10 times), completely ruining any chance of relaxation. I stopped coming for a while after that, and when I finally returned, I was told I had two massages that had "expired." That alone felt questionable...but what happened next was worse. The staff told me the owner would contact me before moving forward. That never happened. Instead, they went ahead and charged me $180 without any communication or approval. This place feels disorganized at best and dishonest at worst. Poor service, poor communication, and questionable business practices. Do yourself a favor and go somewhere else. read more

I'm trying to be honest and leave a balanced review. I've had multiple experiences here with different therapists where there's been a lot of personal oversharing while I'm literally on the table just trying to relax. I've seen six therapists total, and three of them shared some very intimate details about their personal lives during the session. A friend of mine who also comes here said she's had similar experiences. I think they should have a standard check-in at the start of each session--asking if the client prefers quiet, music, or conversation. It's an expensive place, and there should be a basic conversation about comfort level upfront. The tipping situation is also confusing. The massages already cost about 30-40% more than other places in the area because they're marketed as more of a medical-style massage--which I agree, they often are--and it feels like that should be built into the price. I've had two other massage practices in Oakland and SF email clients recently saying that, now that Certified Massage Therapists are legally recognized as healthcare providers in California, they no longer accept tips. One even said they believe a no-tipping policy helps support massage therapy being treated as part of healthcare. This place feels like the opposite. You can end up paying around $240 after tip, and sometimes the session doesn't even feel like a full 60 minutes because of delays getting started. It shouldn't feel rushed at that price point. Tipping should be initiated by the client at checkout if they choose--NOT prompted and pressured by front desk staff asking what tip you'd like to leave. THIS IS NOT AN OK PRACTICE HOW THEY DO IT. And not typical of other places throughout California. Jason, as the manager, really should take a closer look at the tipping policy and culture here even if it currently benefits him. read more

The absolute best sports massage place available. Some of these practitioners here are world class. Find your favorite! I have seen several of them. They also have varying price options and packages. It's not cheap but you get what you pay for. It's simply the most amazing bodywork I've ever had. Got me through five half Ironmans, a full Ironman, and many years of high level competitive tennis. Plus some unfortunate accidents and injuries. Also the kindest staff! Kudos! read more

Found this place on IG. I saw that they do focused massages. I called and did the intake. I told them i have this knot on my left shoulder & really needed help to release it. I immediately matched with Robyn, she was very attentive asking the right questions but she doesn't really focusing on the knot, only focusing on surrounding muscles. Stupid me when i was done, knowing I will need more than one visit to fix the problem i got the package for 3x visit with free IR. Second visit with Robyn she casually brought a drink in, casually sipping through the straw during the session (i saw another person complaining about this), again the massage wasn't focusing on the knot, only the surrounding muscles. So third massage i cancelled with Robyn, i called and gave the feedback. I told them, before posting a review hoping it will have a different outcome and they scheduled with Stella, she's a bit better but again not really focusing on the knot, only surrounding muscles saying that it was not a knot it was a different problem. I was like i see, ok you're the professional and i am trying really hard to convince myself. In the end my knot is still there, happily ever after and i had spent more than $500 for nothing. If you ask me will i go back, the answer is no. I did 60min massage, only for my shoulder (left shoulder) not even bothering sides and not even full body. You would think there should be some relief after 3x visits. I feel like, if you guys can't do it or don't wanna do it just say it or if it is something that is out of your hand just say oh sorry i am not the subject matter expert on this. You should go elsewhere. Terrible experience!! read more

What can I say other than utterly amazing!!!!!! every massage therapist I've had here has been on a whole....'nother level!!! I have to give a special shout out today and it's been the first time I've been motivated Taxi jump on yelp Google there is Anthony who would believe is New there really got in this stuff I was. I was in trouble you guys I had to stop work and I was really worried Antony has me ready to get out and do some kung fu fighting!! thank you Antony. Thank you Psoas! read more

Psoas Massage + Bodywork - Satisfied client post massage!!! - Massage Therapy Near Me - San Francisco, California

I had such a strong session with Stella that it deserves a shoutout here. I came in barely able to lift my right arm because of a pinched nerve in my upper neck, and she zeroed in on it almost immediately. Her pace is unhurried but incredibly precise--once she addressed the nerve issue, she kept working through layers of tension I didn't realize I was carrying, especially through my back and legs. Her somatic approach was a huge differentiator. She paid attention to how my body responded, adjusted pressure intuitively, and guided my breathing so the deeper work actually felt manageable instead of intense. Additionally, really enjoyed talking with her. Hearing about her background in injury rehab, chronic pain work, and trauma-informed bodywork made me trust the process even more. Somewhere around the 45-minute mark I realized I felt genuinely better, and by the time I checked out I had already scheduled multiple return visits. Ended up committing to six total. If you're dealing with pain, recovering from an injury, or just want bodywork that makes a real difference, Stella at Psoas is absolutely worth it. read more

Everybody was very professional and helpful. Alyssa at the front desk was a great first contact. She clearly cared about my pain, listened sympathetically, and appreciated my sense of humor. She also gave me a choice of price point given my criteria. Chrissy, my massage therapist, was very knowledgeable and developed theories about my injury and how to help me. He gave me recommendations and exercises, in addition to a targeted massage that provided pain relief. Thank you all! read more

I came here once last year and the massage I had was great. The only problem was they waited until AFTER my massage to tell me that the price was going to be about 15% higher than what was advertised on the website due to the masseuse increasing their rate. I don't mind paying more money for more experienced bodyworkers but the fact that they only told me after my massage really put me off this place. I'm sure this place has great body workers but just make sure you ask what the rate is before going in because apparently the rate on the website might not be accurate. read more

D is an extraordinary and knowledgeable human being. His vast knowledge about the human body really shows up in their work. They also tailor your session to YOU. It's not a cookie cutter experience, and they'll refer you to others who they think will benefit your healing. I'm thankful to work with D. read more

Great experience! Derek was fantastic and was able to really focus on my shoulder (my issue at the time) and even go over exercises to continue strengthening. A+ read more

This body work establishment truly goes above and beyond with the care they provide their clients. The front desk staff to the massage therapist... I'm so grateful I was pointed in the direction to come to Psoas bc they have been pivotal in healing my body/soul after 2 years of chronic pain with my shoulder and back. My massage therapist, who's name shall not be revealed (Bc I don't want everyone to realize what a world class massage therapist they are and snatch up all my appts :') ) is so intuitive and gifted in their craft. I don't know anybody else that can read and communicate with my muscles and tendons like they can!! And, getting to know the front desk staff over these past few years has been the cherry on top. They remember my name, remember to call me if something pops up and I can tell they really care about their jobs. I love the Psoas team!! read more

Just had a session with Brenden that was amazing. It was a combo of Thai and assisted stretching and it I feel like a really good tool for folks that surf or Snowboard. Brenden does both and from the get go I could tell he knew what was going to work. Highly recommend for board sports people!!! read more

Is there a reason why your front desk is rude? I tried to make an appointment but it sounds like she does not want this place to have any new business. I asked when is the next available appointment. She didn't say anything so I asked again. She was like: "I'm looking at the calendar. Is that ok?" "Nothing is available in July." She didn't even offer to call me back if anyone cancels. Just waited there for me to hang up. When I asked, she was very implantiert. Her tone was harsh during the entire call. I changed my mind. Please don't call me back. Such a shame for the good reviews. read more

The only way to make an appointment is to read your credit card information over the phone to the staff member. This is wrong. If a business place cares about their customers and their own reputation, they should adopt a safe payment method like PayPal or Venmo. I've been a victim of identity theft twice on two different credit cards already. Don't do it folks. Don't make a payment over the phone, don't ask for it either. read more

This place is fantastic!!! These therapists have really helped me out Sarah DAY Casey wassner Mark I'll be back soon for more sessions read more

In a big metropolitan city, you'd think it would be easy to find a good massage therapist. There's definitely no shortage of options in San Francisco. But I thought the search was hopeless after countless tries, until I came across Psoas Massage + Bodywork. I should preface this by stating I'm a Doctor of Physical Therapy and perhaps have high expectations. Even still, Psoas Massage + Bodywork opened my eyes to a higher quality of care both from a client and clinical perspective. What stands out most is their professionalism, communication and cleanliness. The staff took great care of me, took time to listen to my pain story, and specifically addressed both what I thought needed work, as well as what they perceived to be the issue. Aren't you tired of massage therapists working the whole body despite wanting focused work on one area? PSOAS Massage + Bodywork is a place I will confidently send my patients, friends and family alike. read more

Stay away from this place. I was injured while I was there and when I called to let them know they offered no empathy and they took no responsibility. I've had body work many times over the years and have never had that happen. They offered me to come back and partially cover the treatment. Why would I trust coming back and why would I come give you more money? It's sick to injure someone and be so cold about it. read more

Psoas is the best massage and bodywork establishment in San Francisco! All of their therapists are amazing. I have been seeing Cheryl for massage and K.C. for Rolffing for the last year or so as they have helped me come back from an extremely invasive surgery to perform athletically and live in comfort. They also have an awesome infrared sauna! I like to use the sauna before bodywork sessions as I feel it loosens the muscles up and allows the practitioner to go deeper in their work. I like to use the hottest setting as it makes me work up a good sweat and I feel lighter and younger for days afterward. I've also noticed improvement in my skin and GI issues after using the sauna as well. Definitely try adding it to your services, it's totally worth the time and money! read more

I had a great experience with Sarah. I've had a bulged disk with sharp pain and hip tightness for over 2 years that impacted my energy daily and quality of life. 1 hour with Sarah and I feel better than I have in so long, I don't know why I didn't try bodywork sooner. If you have muscle / skeletal pain, she is amazing, understands the body really well on a technical and intuitive level, and can feel where your body is in pain, where it's working correctly, and where it's not and why, then apply pressure in lots of spots to make the muscles work together better and keep bones in better positions read more

Intake staff was very informative and helpful, highly recommend a 90 minute session with Sarah. Great people doing excellent work.

Getting treatment at Psoas Massage + Bodywork worked miracles for me. Sica was my sports massage therapist and she helped me heal my injury which all my physiotherapist/doctors failed to diagnose/treat. She spent some time before the session to identify what I was expecting from her. During the 1 hour session, she helped me identify my tight/stressed muscles which were the source of pain. She has a great understand of all the muscles and their interactions. After the session, she showed me some stretches and foam roll techniques. She also shared her bath recipe with me which helped a lot in my recovery. read more

Jennifer L. gave me a great massage and I would highly recommend her talented hands. If you're looking for a spa experience or dig the pan pipe music, this is not the place for you. If you want a great massage and don't care so much about the cucumber water and the scented bath gel, this is the spot for you. read more

Best place for massage with knowledgeable therapists! Fairly active and had a hiccup with PT and this is the only place I would trust read more

I have only started to become a massage person over the last few years, and Psoas is my place of choice. Michael Talbot has been my massage therapist over these years and has helped with all sorts of aches and pains. I'm not an athlete but as a professional chair-sitter, I unfortunately find myself with sore muscles. Michael specializes in neuro-kinetic therapy which I had never heard of before I went to see him. This type of massage won't be relaxing at all, but the effect is amazing. The purpose behind NKT is to understand the root cause of your pain and determine if it's due to an under-utilized muscle which Michael identifies and gets working again. Psoas isn't a fancy spa or anything, but they are incredibly effective. Validated parking is available at the lot just before Psoas (you'd turn right into the parking garage entrance just before the strip of stores where Psoas is). read more

My first visit here was because of the Yelp Deal and I've been coming ever since. I was set up with Michael and he was absolutely amazing. I was a little confused when trying to find it for the first time and ended up in the apartment complex that it is located in with. I eventually found my way into the side door and the people at the front leasing office pointed me in the right direction. After stepping into through the door I was quickly greeted by a nice woman at the front desk. She had me fill out a paper then I began to look through their selection of books/magazines, which was actually a better selection then you find at other establishments'; i.e hospital waiting room, salon, dentist, etc. That was short-lived as Michael was very prompt for our appointment time and offered me some water. We then walked into one of the rooms where I undressed and went under the sheets. He gave me a good amount of time to get comfortable and was very professional. He really hit all the areas that had been giving me issues for years. For example, I was in a car accident a few years back and have had neck issues since which I always just figured would eventually go away. After one session with Michael I was fully able to move/turn/maneuver my neck to its full extent without getting a headache or strain. It was a miracle! I walked out of there feeling fixed and amazing. Now that I live in NYC it is a bit harder for me to make frequent visits here, but I try to make an appointment for whenever I am back in the area. What can I say? I am a Psoas faithful. =) FYI: You can also sign up to be part of their e-mail lists which gives great tips on health/body issus and discounts on upcoming appointment slots. read more

Hands down the best Sports massage therapy place in the city. I play a lot of tennis, and have encountered shoulder, knee, and quad injuries. The expertise in this shop is phenomenal. They have fixed me multiple times. If your body needs attention: just go see them, this is a no brainer. read more

It seems like some of the really negative reviews here fall into a few categories: 1. Expectations that one short massage can cure them of every problem they've ever had; 2. Passive/aggressive communication issues, whereby the therapist is supposed to also be an unpaid psychic; or 3. One or both of the therapist or customer having a bad day. #3 just happens sometimes. #1 & #2 kinda make me laugh, especially when they're written by people who claim to be therapists themselves--why would they go to a different business/spa or not get anything but a stellar referral from within their trade, if they're so good? Weird paradox. Also, the same kind of person who wouldn't respect a therapist trying to have the front desk help them while they prepared for their next client would be the EXACT kind of person who would be PISSED at that therapist for being one picosecond delayed in starting their own appointment... Anyway, I've only had GREAT experiences here. When I'm in town, I look forward to getting help from Alex. He is respectful, intuitive, communicative but not pestering, joyful/kind, and comes off as very knowledgable in his craft. But, for me, the proof is in the pudding: after over a decade's worth of back pain and an inability to touch my feet without first stretching for 5-10 minutes down from my knee area, I can now touch my toes on cue! And, despite my making fun of negative reviews for reason #1, this actually WAS the result after my first session, though I'm not a silly or crazy person, so I booked 90min. If you're serious about fixing a problem, know it's not going to be free or immediate, and can communicate normally while being patient, I'd highly recommend this place and Alex...though please don't book my time slot! I now always look forward to coming back to SF, because I know my body will feel better by the time I leave. If only I didn't start sooner, I'd have avoided a decade of unnecessary pain and random back spasms...oh yeah, haven't had a single back spasm since I started treatments a few months ago! read more

I'm also going against most 5 star reviews, but I didn't see anything special about this massage. I've had way better, even at cheap massage places such as Pure Sole in Newport Beach ($25/hr fully clothed, but these guys were good ~ what a steal!). I got this massage as a gift (the 90 min massage) and my expectations were very high after reading the reviews. I got a male masseuse and he went so deep into my back, and was hurting me (I can take pretty deep massages, and I know my muscles require a lot of massaging, but this was too way too hard for a 120 pound girl). I told him I didn't like it, and he kept telling me to just take deep breaths. O man. I know massages are supposed to be good for your muscles, but I thought they were supposed to be relaxing too. I would not go back to this place. The place is also a bit difficult to find. read more

I could not recommend this place more! I originally came to Kieran with IT band syndrome, which I had had for about a year and within 3 sessions, the pain was completely gone and I was back to my normal long runs. I had also had back pain for two years, which I thought was unrelated, but Kieran assured me they were linked, and that ALSO WENT AWAY. Kieran is so incredibly knowledgeable, especially about legs and he has techniques to really get through to the deepest/strongest muscles and fascia. Now that my main injury is healed, I go to Kieran for maintenance every month/6-weeks. I almost always walk away from the appointment feeling relief. If you are an athlete/runner etc. and have pain in your legs or really anywhere, go to Kieran! read more

I recently went to one session with Scott and one with David because I got severe plantar fasciitis 3 weeks before a marathon. I feel close to fully healed and am able to run pain free! I owe much of my health to Scott and David. David and Scott both work with incredible efficiency and an exceptional understanding of the body. They are able to pinpoint trigger points quickly and make major adjustments in a fraction of the time that it takes other masseuses. They may cost more than other body workers, but they are worth the money. Additionally, the office is absolutely beautiful. It's the kind of place you want to hang out in all day (and maybe steal some interior decorating ideas from). The reception staff is warm, helpful, and calming. If you are looking for high quality bodywork. Especially if you are an athlete, try PSOAS. read more

I've been seeing David Bacome for a range of issues for several years. Neck stiffness from cycling. Broken wrist. Recovering from a serious skiing accident. After long cycle touring trips, ski season, and other intense sporting activities. David is truly a master at figuring out how the body is out of balance! He constantly is taking workshops and courses, to learn new practices and deepen his knowledge. The skill and precision of his work is well worth the wait to get on his schedule and the cost of his services (which are higher than at a spa, reflecting the high level of training he has). I've received massages from 5-8 different people here over the past decade. You have to find the right practitioner, because he therapists have different styles and specialties. Your ability to communicate what you want (and what you don't want) is essential. I decided not to go back to several therapists, but am very loyal to other therapists at Psoas who've been exactly what I need. #1 tip: explain exactly what you would consider a successful or poor session, and make sure you're matched with the therapist who can deliver that. #2 tip: I wear comfy clothes so I can get up to test out how adjustments feel, as they go. read more

TLDR version: I would give more stars if I could, worth every penny and amazing staff. July 2019 - felt nerve pain and lower back pain which I thought was mild sciatica, took Advil and went about my day despite this. August - pain gets worse I end up in the ER. Had an MRI done and turns out I have not one but TWO herniated discs and nerve issues as a result - entire right leg feels like lightning bolts are shooting out of it. I'm doped up on Ketamine at Highland, put on meds for the pain and nothing helps. September - feeling kinda desperate over here so my doc ups the pain meds. Nada. October - I get put on prednisone and end up with a low back epidural shot. By this time my muscles are working overtime and my body is totally misaligned from leaning to one side to avoid the pain. November - the physio medicine doc I had only seen ONCE recommends I get surgery and I was like hell nah. I need an alternative. I found Psoas because I thought I'd be able to use some relief from how much work my muscles were doing. After an intake and talk with Amy she recommended a clinical massage which I was so desperate for relief I was like yea let's do it. Whatever it takes. Surgery spooked me into seeking a different method of healing. After maybe the second massage I was standing upright, walking normally and able to drive again. A couple more and I had felt more relief than ever before and no longer chugging Advil like it was water. Amy has been like an angel, providing relief from this awful pain and knowledge on how muscles work and what I can do to help prevent this back injury from getting worse. Fast forward to today and I can finally sleep, move around, dance and surf like I did before when all Kaiser wanted was to throw medication my way and surgery as a fix. This was the best decision I could have ever made to help get me back on track. It's pricey but worth it. Amy, I can't thank you enough. For a minute I thought I'd be stuck with this pain forever. read more

Summary: not a cheap option, but once you have a therapeutic massage (compared to a relaxing massage) at Psoas, it makes the money you would spend on massages at spas feel like a waste of money. Ambiance: Psoas isn't a spa. It offers therapeutic/rehabilitative massage. The office is clean, quiet, modern, and comfortable. The treatment rooms are similarly clean, modern, and comfortable. Depending on who you see, they may or may not put on the relaxing music typical of a massage in a spa. Service: This is why you come here. The service/massage you get at Psoas isn't relaxing (unless you request a relaxing massage). The bodywork professionals here have extensive knowledge of various techniques to rehab you from exercise injuries or death by desk job. They will ask what ails you and what you'd like worked on. They are always receptive to feedback about pressure and approach, but if you want them to really get in there and release your fascia, they will do it. I've seen several therapists at Psoas, and am currently going to Ginger. Since I first started going to Psoas and had heat therapy with my massages, I try to always see the therapist that incorporates heat into their approach. I find it allows them to get at the deeper tissue and thus it seems like the effects are longer lasting. Price/Value: On the one hand, it's super expensive. On the other hand, the last time I booked a 1 hour massage at a spa, it was just as expensive, and the effects didn't last much after I got off the table. Yes, there are definitely other less expensive options in the city, and usually the trade offs are both ambiance and technique. Sometimes a relaxing massage in a less spa-like environment will do it for you. For me, I'd rather save my money for really great therapeutic massage instead. read more

Would not recommend to anyone!! I came here with a pain in my left shoulder which I explained in great detail when I was making this appointment with the receptionist who asked me to provide all this information! When I arrived for my appointment I filled out a form outlining my symptoms and where I needed work done. When I met with the therapist, Alex,I again explained my symptoms and that the main reason I was there was to get relief in my left shoulder. Alex started working on my back and then moved on to my right shoulder and then told me the session was over, without ever working on my left shoulder the one causing me pain! Despite me reminding him again during the session that it was my left shoulder causing me pain! I then told him he never actually worked on the shoulder in pain and he said he thought it was my right shoulder and apologized and worked on my left shoulder for 2 minutes and the apologized and said he would talk to front seat but that he had to prepare for his next client! I left the appointment in more pain than I went in, I held off writing this review in the hope that it was a case of getting worse before getting better, it has been 5 days now and I am still in pain! Front desk gave me a 10% discount which is less than satisfactory! I cannot speak for other therapists here but I advice you not to go to Alex! Very very very disappointed read more

I've had both amazing and terrible massages here. I would suggest you don't book a sports massage with a stranger close to a big race. My latest massage left me feeling almost injured, even days after I had it. Book one while you're training. Find someone good. On the odd chance they set you back, at least you have time to recover. Once you find a good masseuse, stick to them and don't leave anything to chance! read more

I made an appointment and the person on the phone penciled me in for 30 days away (soonest slot avail). 30 days later they said they had no record of the appointment and i was told sorry im out of luck i need to wait another month. read more

David gave me the best massage I've had in recent memory. Get this: he asked me my trouble spots, then actually listened, working predominantly and creatively on those specific areas (not at all a one-protocol fits all type of massage). The crowning jewel however, was that he was able to bring me true, melty relief within just one 60 minute session. He uses trigger point, skilled and careful deep tissue, crazy (but powerful) stretches that remind me of when I stretch my cat up over my head in all kinds of silly positions, as well as a hot pad (as a genuine tool, not just a thing to relax you). In a city full of excellent massage therapists, I may just have found one that I will come back to over and above nearly all others. (I mean hey, if you can make me feel half as relaxed as my cat looks, I figure I'm in good hands!) Price is quite fair, rooms are spacious and standard. They validate parking. Receptionist is kind and normal (not all spacey and fake-silken-voiced). I'm doing "happy paws" on the keyboard. read more

I was in the midst of a fashion crisis (post-stiletto-wearing excruciating pain searing down my butt cheek - what???), and Michael Stoppelman caught me limping at work. He insisted I call Psaos right away, and luckily they were able to book me a same-day appointment, no problem. I was blown away by Tim's magic hands! During a full body deep tissue massage, he answered all of my questions about posture, alignment and exercising and explained how all of the muscles are connected and why mine might be calling out for help. He really dug in and hit all of the pressure points, alternating pleasure with some serious pain. My body currently feels worked over, like I took a day-long Bikram class. Oh, the sacrifices I'll make for wearing stilettos. There's just nothing else quite as sexy, no? read more

There are 2 types of people in this world: those who prefer to have their back rubbed and those who prefer to have their back scratched. There you have it--the meaning of life given to you, free of charge, by mama J. (brought to you by Yelp : ) However, I'm a rare breed because I'm a convert. More precisely, I am a recovering back-scratch-type. And I blame my mother. It's her fault because the poor woman just has no strength in her hands. Try as she might to please a yowling kid who only wants a good ole' back rub, all she could muster was a little pet. She'd do a good job on the shoulders for about one minute, maybe two if it wasn't too late, and then just say "Jussie, honey, I just can't. How about a little back scratch instead?" I'd reluctantly acquiesce. But only because, even as a youngin', I was a shameless affection (affection, not attention--two VERY different things) whore (again, it's all her fault!) and a back scratch was better than nothing. Thus, the genesis of her brainwashing me into believing that, in fact, I wanted a back scratch. My mother is a smart and sneaky little woman. I started asking for the back scratch instead of the rub. It got to the point where she would start the back rub but then I would protest and say "No--scratch!" I'm sure if we had surveillance tapes from back then we would see my mother with a satisfied, conniving little grin. Oh, I bet she was damn proud of herself. As I grew up, I, as is the case with everyone who has any nerve endings on their back, never grew out of wanting this display of affection focused on my back. I went through the slumber party stage where we would play "strawberry patch" and would mimic planting and cultivating a strawberry field on someone's back, or another game where we would scratch-write something out on each other's backs (usually our latest crush's name) and try to have the person guess what we were writing. I don't know if these games were specific to upstate NY...yelp ladies?? (Oh, sorry, yelp men. After these games we would all be in our bra and panties and have a silly little pillow fight and giggle and fall on each other and it would be all hot and steamy and feathery. mama J doesn't want to destroy your idea of slumber parties) Then I started getting boyfriends and realized that maybe back scratching wasn't where it was at. Damn boys don't have nails. And for some reason they balked at the idea of giving the back scratch even though they were always willing to receive...hmmmm. Those back scratch episodes would last maybe 2 minutes long and then all of a sudden he'd be fiddling with my bra. (this phenomenon translates to most everything in adolescent relationships, I came to find-- me, age 14: "Kevin, do you wanna get some ice cream?" Kevin: "uh, ok. Then can we make out???" Or, me, age 15: "Greg, do you wanna watch the basketball game?" Greg: "uh, ok. Then can we make out???") So, there I was, a teenager with no tribe to call my own. I didn't know what I wanted: back rub, back scratch, ice cream, make outs...they all seemed to blend together (BTW: in adulthood this type of blending gets 5 stars). If only Tim at Psoas had been my boyfriend back then. He would have cleared up this inner struggle and reversed the years of trauma that my mother's brainwashing had inflicted in no time flat. The man has magic hands. He just knows where you need it. Some people can feel and even see the flow of energy and instinctively know where you are "stuck." I do not have this gift. If you say the word chakra to me, then I'll just nod as if I know what you're talking about because it just seems easier than to go through the whole thing with you when all I want is a little affection. But with Tim, he just knows. He talks to you for a couple of minutes prior to the session and finds out what he needs to know. For me, I explained my job, my work out schedule, my perception of my stress and he just looked me up and down and said "sounds like you just need a comforting, energizing circulatory massage." Um, yes please. Throughout the session, I never felt like he was going too hard or too light and he always went for the spots that were in the worst of shape, energy flow-wise, without me even knowing that I had issues there. And, being the delicate little flower that I am, (*cough*) I easily bruise after such massages, but I had not-a-one from my man Tim. I will never go to another massage studio for as long as I am in San Francisco. There is simply no point. Nor will I ever acquiesce and receive a back scratch. What's that song that says: "I don't care if they're real or acrylic, cuz when you scratch my back, I'm still gonna feel it." ? Tim gave a different meaning to "feel." A deeper, more connected, meaning. So, back scratchers need not apply. read more