I started going to Soul Works chiropractic 5 or 6 years ago when it was under different ownership by Dr. Peter Fisk. I was in my mid twenties and had a back condition of an overly curved or hunched spine. I was serving tables at the time and had severe back pain and back muscle cramping. A coworker told me about their more wholistic approach of spinal network care. Basically this style of chiropractor does not crack your back. Invented by Donald Epstein, this style uses light touch along the spine to get your own breath to move into areas that your breath doesn't get to on its own, which makes your entire spinal network get into a place of ease. You have to be a chiropractor to learn this technique, but again it is totally different than what you would expect from a chiropractor. So I was a bit apprehensive at first and for a short while after I started going to see Dr. Peter. However, what I immediately noticed was my pain was gone after the first couple visits. But they talked me into continuing to come. It is less expensive per visit than a normal chiropractor and I could afford to come once a week. They prefer you to come more often but again I was serving tables at the time. Over the next year or two my spine started to get straighter, which the doctor that took my x rays when I was 18 said was not possible. Also my breath was starting to go from being in my low back only to being able to travel up to near the top of my spine. This allowed my entire musculature to become more relaxed. After the first couple years Dr. Melanie Hernand took over the business and I have been going to her ever since. The most profound work was done during these past several years. The initial pain relief that I felt when I first went was just the surface of the problems buried deep within my body and tied into my psyche. My breath not only got into the top of my spine, but started moving into my chest cavity around my guarded heart. That is what I've been digging into and healing over the past few years. This is hard to explain in a yelp post but this work has changed my life. Through working with increased flexibility in my spine through my breath I've actually become a stronger and more present person. I've had intentions of growing my personality on my own, but this work has given me some physical tools to do so. After and entrainment, as the chiropractic appointments are called, there is a type of euphoria where I can see my life and its problems and blessings from a clearer and more loving perspective. As my body receives more care so does my mind and spirit. I constantly recommend Dr. Melanie Hernand to all my friends, family, and even strangers. I don't do this to create more business for my Doctor that has become my friend over the years. I do it because she has changed my life in profoundly beautiful ways and I want everyone to be able to share such a wonderful gift. If you have back pain, or body misalignment, or you just want to become more connected to your physical and spiritual self I highly recommend visiting Soul works. Your body and your life will thank you for it. read more

SoulWorks webster is a real healing center. The space is beautiful - nicely decorated, lovely light and nice energy.) Since their opening I've been coming for both massage and entrainment and love it that they are offering yoga and other healing practices now. For me the massage and entrainment combo are an amazing and much needed reset. It's awesome (and actually time efficient) that there are rockstar massage therapists and NSC chiro doctors all in one place. Loving this location of SoulWorks on Webster/right off Union and it's surprisingly easy to park (neighborhood spots and metered parking turn over) and easy to take the bus. I've shared this gem/center with a number of friends (and my sweetie. Clearly it's easy to recommend. Check it out - you deserve it! We all do! ;) read more

I have seen several network spinal chiropractors over the last 13 years. I have been going to Dr. Maris Funk for the last year (since she has taken the practice from Dr. Mel). At one point in time I did see a traditional Chiro (2010) for a few months... and it was way too aggressive on my body and it didn't help me, actually made me worst. So my overall experience with Network is extensive and very-very positive. I have TMJ and I constantly work on how my body reacts to daily stresses in life. I see Dr Maris at least once a week. It is not a one time deal, it is and will continue to be part of my life. i have also started taking advantage of the hydro-massage bed that she extends to her patience. What an experience! I adore Dr Maris, she is so warm and sweet. She is a caring, thoughtful and a beautiful person inside and out. I HIGHLY recommend Dr Maris and network chiropractor work to ANYONE! read more

I had been living with chronic hip and ear problems most of my life. I had tried various treatments and nothing made a dramatic improvement. In addition, I am a flamenco dancer and often have very sore feet. On top of that, I had been suffering from insomnia for the past year. Finally when I hurt my knee this year on a hike, I decided that I should do something about all these problems! I am so thankful that I tried Dr. Funk at SoulWorks. From my very first visit I felt relief. And now after three months I can say that I feel the best physically than I have in decades. I am also sleeping better! Not only does her treatment help alleviate the discomfort, or soreness, or pain, or tightness, it also is very relaxing. I look forward to my visits and give my highest recommendation to Dr. Funk. read more

I began going to SoulWorks almost 1 year ago at their Hyde St. location with the idea that "my back needed some work." In the past, I have used traditional chiropractic and it has always been a bust: Cracking/popping is just treating the symptom, not the problem -- so the relief, although instant, has always been temporary. My preference has usually been gentle chiro with stretching and acupressure etc. Dr. Mel was my introduction to Network Spinal Analysis (NSA). For those who are emotionally reserved/self-conscious, the NSA practice can be overwhelming -- It is also very liberating. The tenets of NSA treat tension in the back/spine as symptoms of broader emotional conflicts. ---Who hasn't been in a terrible meeting or under a high-pressure deadline and literally felt their shoulders tense, their back hunch, etc? ---- Dr. Mel feels where you hold your tension and asks that you correspond that with what is going on in your life and together -- her with gentle stimulation and guidance, you with acknowledging and accepting what you're actually feeling and why -- work through the tension. Together you retrain your body's reaction to stress and release the pressure valve of suppressed emotion. The end result? Your back pain is reduced/eliminated and you learn to be aware of your body, your emotions and how they work together. For those who are ready to embrace the Mind-Body-Soul philosophy, I couldn't recommend SoulWorks any higher. Dr. Mel & Pablo are a superb team I am always confident in the additional team members that they bring in to the practice. They are always "present" and engaged, gentle and joyous and are truly invested in your care. read more

Oh my god....I was in complete bliss for half a day after my massage with Eva! She worked magic on my neck and back - total bliss! I think they have a monthly massage deal, kinda like a massage envy structure. $79 per month and you get one massage that can be rolled over. Not bad especially in the marina! read more

Dr Maris is a gifted healer and practitioner. I was fortunate to be under regular care for many months in which I was able to gain a significantly great sense the patterns of physical response to circumstances in my daily life. Through the regular care I was able change these patterns and also free up my body and really sense intro my spine to help it realign during my day. I became much more sensitized to when my body was tensing up and rather than staying that way for days or longer I became far more effective at stopping, readjusting, expressing and asserting... And thus much happier. I've not been able to receive that care for some time now, and I do miss it. I highly recommend Dr Maris and Soulworks. read more

This place has changed since my last review. I know some of the massage therapist who have worked there and they are treated unprofessionally. Basically they don't get paid on time consistently (which is already just once a month) and the scheduling is not being managed accurately. Before I stopped seeing Dr. Mel I myself had issues with the scheduling. I would book an appointment the front desk would just say yes we have you down and I would show up and no one was there. Front desk people need to confirm with a yes we have you for this time. read more

SoulWorks was my introduction to network spinal care which was incredibly soothing - I immediately felt relaxed and open and could breath much more deeply. I live in Marin and with all the choices for massage and other healing offerings on this side of the GGB, it's worth the extra 10-15 minutes for me to go to SoulWorks because SoulWorks is a full service healing center where I can heal mind, body and soul all at the same location. The other aspect that I appreciate that I don't find at spas for instance is the sense of community - participating in the network spinal care and mediations with other like minded souls greatly accelerates the transformative work that I do there. Looking forward to going back again and again! read more

This review is for Soul Works Chiropractic, not Massage: Soul Works, put simply, is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. A friend had raved to me about this practice but said she "couldn't quite explain it" and that I would have to experience it for myself. Please note that you should not come here expecting a traditional chiropractic experience. If you're looking for a quick fix, this is not your place. I am disheartened when I read poor reviews on here mocking the process due to misunderstanding it's depth. What Dr. Mel offers is pure magic : the ability to lead us into a strong connection with the fundamental element of what we are - energy. This practice is beyond traditional chiropractic adjusting. It is about overall wellness, self work, healing, feeling, transformation, connecting to your energy, your love, your pain and your possibilities. Through a series of guided breathing and SRI techniques Dr. Mel will guide you on how to connect through to your deeper self, drop your defenses and learn to be in your body. All of this leads to a release of inner tension which greatly impacts the body and the spine. I walked into the office of Dr. Melanie Hernand at a very challenging time in my life: post-break up and diagnosed with clinical anxiety. Not wishing to be medicated, I began searching for alternative therapies. Wary of the process, as some people have said "it didn't feel like much was happening," I stuck with it to realize within a few sessions that a lot was happening. Magic was happening. I came into contact with my own body energy. A year into this process, I rely on it greatly for support through life's twists and turns and for anxiety relief. It has been a savior for me and led me to a deeper sense of self as well as my strength and what I have to offer. Dr. Mel has been an angel, helping me to create new healthy patterns both emotionally and physically in place of my old ones that no longer work. Up to this very moment in my life, while in a very difficult situation in a relationship, what I realize is that I've never been more open, more loving or less defensive at any time in my life than now. She has helped me reach the nature of my true self. Also worth noting that they have a very relaxed appointment environment which may take some getting used to for some people (it did for me). So remember in dealing with desk service that they are there to help and have always been more than happy to make appointments very flexible for me. If you're ready to take on the journey of your deeper self and a strong self care, this is your place. Dr. Mel's positive, healing energy is simply infectious. Sometimes I am uplifted simply by her hugs. Pablo always puts a smile on my face. read more

Dr Marisan is helping me greatly with my body 's response to stress, helping me with respiratory symptoms, and with getting healthier after a prolonged illness. I love the ambiance of the treatment room; it is so beautiful and relaxing. Soulworks is a great experience in general and Dr Marisan is truly an expert healer! read more

I must begin with this: I loveeeeeeeee SoulWorks! It is such an amazing place and has literally worked wonders in my physical and over all wellness :)...Now let me tell you why. I started going to SoulWorks about 1 year ago. I received a voucher as a gift including 2 chiropractic adjustments and 1 massage. I didn't really have much expectation for it but I was really looking forward to the massage. My first scheduled appointment was the new patient chiropractic exam. Dr. Mel spent about an hour with me. First I filled out a bit of paperwork, asking questions about my over all physical, mental and emotional wellness. I discovered quickly after this questionnaire that this was not like any other ordinary chiropractor. These questions indicated that Dr. Mel and her team really care about discovering the root of our symptomatic issues and in that, being able to provide the most personalized and appropriate care. Dr. Mel is so sweet, so approachable and immediately makes you feel comfortable. Just from spending a few minutes with her I could tell that she really cares to discover the best way to help you in your personal recovery/healing. The chiropractic adjustments are light, very gentle with no cracking of the spine. Much different from what I was used to, as I have scoliosis and have gone to many different chiropractors throughout my life. I was so amazed at the difference I felt within my spine and in my overall wellbeing. Its almost like, I didn't know how well I could feel until now. And in that, I feel so much joy. I am in love with the work that is done at SoulWorks, the style of their treatments, the love and the genuine care that these beautiful people have in helping others truthfully feel and become well. SoulWorks is a beautiful haven in this busy, busy life, where we as individuals can give ourselves the time to heal, rest, recover and grow. In addition to the chiropractic adjustments, their massage team is great. I have only had two massages, but each experience went really well. I am usually very tense in my shoulders and the therapists really made sure to get me where I needed it most. Each time, I left feeling relaxed and well. If you get the chance, book your appointment with Diana. She is AMAZING! SoulWorks has two locations in San Francisco. One off Hyde st., and the other off Webster st. Both locations are amazing in providing a beautiful environment for care. It is difficult to describe much else about this practice other than it works wonders and is a one stop place for multiple types of healing and care. Not only will you feel physically well, but you will begin to feel a change in your mental and emotional wellness that is many times attached to these physical symptoms we feel. In that, if you are thinking about checking this place out, PLEASE DO! You will not regret it. Come ready to give your body what it needs and you, yourself will continue to feel better and better. :) read more

I absolutely love my time with Dr. Maris - I crave time here in between my appointments! I can't put into words the healing I've felt in this place. If you want to be in better touch with your body and address some nagging issues in your life (physical and/or emotional), I suggest you visit Soulworks with an open mind and give this form of care a chance to change your life. read more

I recently took a road trip where I was the primary driver. It was hours of driving before taking a break or getting gas. During the driving time, my left leg started to feel like it was falling asleep and my hip was achy. Throughout the entire trip and for weeks after, my left leg would have a similar sensation when sitting for more than an hour. Dr. Maris ( love her ) worked on me and during my entrainment, I felt a movement of energy, starting at my hip, moving down my leg. Literally, within seconds, the sleepiness in my hip and leg had dissipated immensely. Prior to this incident, the trigger points in my back had flared up. I was uncomfortable and in pain. I had difficulties turning my head from left to right. After an entrainment and a massage from Alex ( who is FABULOUS, I might add ), the knots in my back released and I was feeling much better. I have also worked with Vanessa for SRI therapy. She is this sparkling being that just radiates love unconditionally. I adore her and the work she does amazing, as is everyone at Soulworks. The work cultivated at Soulworks is profound. It's difficult to fully articulate what the experience is truly like. I can only describe it as magic. Harry Potter...watch out! read more

SoulWorks is one of the most reliable and professional chiropractic and massage therapy practices I've come across. I've literally traveled the world looking for ways to treat a problem I had diagnosed late in life, a fusion of the vertebra in my lower back. It's given me all sorts of trouble through the years, but it's the low-impact "no bones popping" form of chiro that they practice here that's finally been able to help me. Over the past eight years, I've seen the business itself pass through several hands, from Dr. Peter Fisk through to Dr. Mel, who has now passed it on to Dr. Marisan, who's a real wonder in her own right. If you're lucky enough to be in San Francisco and looking to get a glimpse of something out of the ordinary, or if you've already experienced "network spinal analysis" and want to get knocked out of the ballpark, I highly recommend giving them a call and setting up an appointment. read more

I see differences in how I carry myself. It is unbelievable. Chiropractic care always seemed too aggressive and not personalized enough for each body. After my first visit here I already felt much better, which is rare. I have been having neck and rib issues from an injury 3 years ago. My spine alinement has been off for a too long. She is helping me naturally realign my spine and I am feeling it throughout my body. After visiting her I go to yoga or rock climbing and have more balance, focus and awareness of my body. I look forward to her visits. Her work is still hard for me to explain to my friends but whatever it is, it is working better than ucsf sports medicine and standard chiropractic care. read more

Dr. Christopher Powell is an absolute pleasure to work with! He has an amazing bedside manner, is really knowledgeable and super friendly and professional. I felt soooo much better after just one appointment! I would give him 20 platinum stars if I could! read more

I got a massage from Diana this weekend and it was one of the best massages I have ever had (and I have had 100's.) She obviously understands anatomy and got into knots in my neck and back that have not been massaged out in months (despite getting other massages.) She did amazing work in only an hour. I got the Yelp deal and it was very worth it!! I can't wait to go back. The studio is also nice and open. Parking is tough so plan for extra time to find a space. read more

I strongly recommend Dr. Christopher Powell as a masterful practitioner of Network Spinal Analysis! The technique itself is a *gentle* way of working with the spine and the nervous system so as to release old and locked patterns of tension in the muscles and connective tissue. It literally stimulates the body to remember its natural configuration and heal itself, in stark contrast to the cracking model of traditional chiropractic. Moreso, it has dramatically improved my physical, mental and emotional outlooks after stress took a major toll on my health. Dr. Christopher is a talented, caring healer with a great deal of embodied wisdom from his years in this practice. He is as much a friend as a doctor and I can't recommended him enough to anyone interested. I literally breathe easier as soon as I get on his table and inevitably leave his care, after dozens of sessions, feeling clear, relaxed and inspired. If you're reading this and wondering "what is network spinal analysis", take a chance, go see Dr. Christopher in person, and find out for yourself! Happy healing and transformation! read more

Had a great adjustment by Dr Marisan. The office is very peaceful and serene. I left feeling amazing. I highly recommend her work and office. Very convenient and across from SoulCycle. I look forward to my next adjustment. read more

Dr. Marisan is a different kind of healer if you're thinking traditional chiropractic care. She doesn't pop or crack your body but actually helps you as an individual tap into your own healing ability in this co-active healing and wellness approach. She offers so much more than just physical wellness too. There is a certain peace, calm and energetic that exists in her practice like I've never seen before. I am absolutely amazed at the progress I am making with chronic neck and back pain due to old neglected injuries. Offering myself this kind of self-care is so incredibly nourishing and its positive effects are actually showing up in other areas of my life, creating space, a graceful flow...and MORE ENERGY! I couldn't recommend Dr Marisan more whole-heartedly. She is amazing. read more

The owners and staff really do care about their service they provide and they want their clients to have a good experience. I re-visited their business with Diana as my massage therapist and she definitely wanted to make sure my massage was to my satisfaction. She asked for feedback and really wanted to know how she could improve my massage. I appreciate that. I also think it's helpful when the therapist is active or an ex-athlete such as myself, (Diana was a gymnast and dancer) because I think it helps the therapist to be able to relate to the patient. My only negative is parking! eek! A nightmare. But their service is great, good customer service. read more

I don't know why people are so wordy in their reviews.. I guess that means they either love it or they hate it. (Makes sense.) Still, even though I give Soulworks 5 stars, it doesn't mean you will,.. BUT if you're looking for a definitely above par wellness health advancing and life optimizing positive place to go to support your healing process you'll definitely be taken care of by Dr. Mel, or she'll steer you in the right direction that serves your needs better, or you yourself will know for yourself after seeing her what is the next step for you. ..Win win win!! Above par chiropractic care, seeing you as a whole person. That's what call 5 starts. If you've been around like I have to tons of practitioners, you'll know there's a lot of sub par chiropractic care out there.. I only go to above par for my health care optimization. read more

This review is just for the massage. Bought the groupon deal and it was easy to book appointments online. The place is fine, and the masseuse is friendly. Her schedule seems pretty packed tightly - she had to come out and greet me before finishing her previous client, and then she had to excuse herself towards the end of my appointment. The massage itself was fine, very typical Swedish massage. read more

I started seeing Dr. Mel expecting "traditional" chiropractic. I'd done chiropractic for years and started at SoulWorks for the convenient locations and the coupon. I never expected it to change my life. I know a lot of people think this style of treatment is hocus pocus or crunchy granola but trust me that it will open you up both physically and emotionally. I am no longer plagued by almost constant lower back pain and experience everyday happiness and joy like never before. I feel physically and emotionally lighter. So if you think this style is weird because it requires more breathing than the practitioner's manipulations adjustments, well you are missing out on letting go of all the crap that's holding you back. Dr. Mel is an angel. read more

I love SoulWorks! The practice of gentle chiropractic work is new for a lot of people but is wonderful. It really helps you focus on what's really going on in your life and how much your overall health (mental, emotional, physical) affect different parts of your body. This is not your traditional doctors office either! Dr. Mel is one of the kindest and most genuinely loving people I know. She is very attentive to everyone's needs and really takes the time to have a personal relationship with each and every one of her patients. At first, I was a little unsure because I had never done gentle chiropractic before and I didn't really have any serious physical pain but after a few session with Mel, I felt so much less tension in my body and a significant drop my stress levels. Please do yourself a favor and go see Dr. Mel! read more

Dr. Mel is one of the most sensitive and attuned professional and healing practitioners I have had the privilege of working with. And I have seen alot of them all over the world ! Dr. Mel has a profound ability to tune into the real needs of her clients ... which often lie below the surface of traditional medical diagnosis. She has been able to bring out the causes of the symptoms and work with those ... which result in a longer-term wellness rather than short-term (quick-fix) care. I have experienced this in dozens of entrainment sessions, as well as watching her work on other people. She has an extraordinary capacity to be aware of and awaken the long-term healing process. Her connection and heart shine through her hands and the way she works, in a very gentle and non-invasive way. It is often exhilarating ! For anyone interested in chiropractic, network chriopractic, or long term care, go visit Dr. Mel. And experience the refreshment ! read more

I was just informed via email that my upcoming massage was cancelled with a groupon I bought months ago and that they will no longer honor groupons. This is pretty unacceptable and a really bad business practice. read more

While I was skeptical that the new space on Webster would live up to the spirit of the Hyde location, SoulWorks has really brought the magic into the house. It has west-facing bay windows that allow the sun to fill the rooms with warmth that is sometimes even overpowering -- a welcome change in foggy San Francisco. Incorporating Vanessa's SRI services into the practice has taken my care to a whole new depth, and I always look forward to the new discoveries I'll make with her. read more

Dr. Christopher Powell changed my life. I highly recommend Soul Works to anyone who needs to restore balance in their life. Like many people in SF, I was wrapped up in my work, and suffering from a constant state of stress and anxiety. Dr. Chris helped me to get out of my superficial head and back in touch with my true self. I haven't felt this good since I was a child. All it takes is 2-3 sessions and you will feel the stress melt away. Thank you Dr. Chris!! read more

Katrina is a wonderful massage therapist. She listened to my issues, applied just the right amount of pressure, and I felt like I was melting (in a good way). It was just excellent. I particularly appreciated the non-New Agey music she played. This place is conveniently located, with 2-hour street parking nearby (albeit it takes at least 10-15 minutes to find a parking spot, but that goes for pretty much anywhere in the city). This was also the most comfortable massage table I've ever experienced. The only downside is the lights in the room where I got my massage were too bright. They could invest in a nice table lamp instead of ceiling lighting. Otherwise, I highly recommend SoulWorks and Katrina! read more

I absolutely LOVE this place! Dr. Melanie is an incredibly present, loving and passionate healer who is absolutely committed to helping people unwind old stories and patterns that are not serving them so they can show up with more truth, connection and gratitude. The atmosphere is so supportive for growth and evolution and NSA is the most poweful tool I have found to show up fully in my strength, beauty and unique soul expression. Thanks Dr. Mel for sharing your gifts in this way with the world and for creating this place where we, as a community, can gather to wake up to our most amazing selves and lives! read more

I am a relatively new patient and have only been going to see Dr. Mel (for NSA chiropractic) and Vanessa (for SRI) since July, but I have to say that Soulworks truly lives up to its name. After every appointment, I feel that not only my body, but also my soul has been deeply and thoroughly cared for. Although I am only a beginner, things are beginning to open up for me. My chronic neck and hip pain are lessening, and as the pain in my body releases, so do the painful emotions that keep it there. Or maybe it's the other way around: as the painful emotions I carry in my heart are released, the pain that I carry in my body releases too. Regardless, with each appointment, I come out feeling more comfortable with my body and more in touch with my soul. What a wonderful gift Dr. Mel, Vanessa, and Pablo provide. read more

I'm a huge fan of Dr. Melanie Hernand and both her practices now. I've been seeing her off and on for about a year and a half. The type of chiropractic care she offers works best for me when I can commit to coming in regularly for several weeks at a time; sometimes with travel it's hard to do so. The new practice is a beautiful space in another lovely and thriving neighborhood. I love all the windows and how cozy it feels. It seems like a wonderful location to access more people who could benefit from care. The reason I keep seeing and referring friends and family to Dr. Mel is because of her unique approach and results. It's not what I ever expected, especially how it has affected my life positively and beyond my imagination. I am practicing a healthy lifestyle overall, so I'm sure that helps expedite the process as well as help me be receptive to new experiences and different outcomes. If you keep a lot of tension in your body or have a difficult time being balanced, I highly recommend trying Dr. Mel out for a couple months. You'll be amazed at just how much you can accomplish by breathing. :) read more

I've been going to Soulworks on Hyde St. for chiropractic care for almost 4 years now. At first I didn't know what I was getting myself into. I was in chronic pain and not in a very good place in my life. I was seeking peace and comfort and believed there had to be an alternative to talk therapy and medicine. I was seeking something more. I started reading Eckhart Tolle, Abraham Hicks.. seeking to expand my thinking. It wasn't enough. I needed more - there was something deeper going on inside of me that needed healing so I prayed for a guide and then a friend told me about Soulworks. I met Dr. Mel and began my journey, putting all my faith and trust in her and her healing. Although not an easy journey, the Universe did answer my prayers. Over time I began to feel better, finding lost memories, releasing my traumas and subsequently freeing my soul. That is soul work and I'm so grateful I found my healer. I've not been to this new location but I can't wait to go and experience the healing energy. I look forward to continuing my journey and am so glad I can go to more than one place!! Thank you Dr. Mel for being my guru, my teacher, my guide, my healer. Blessings xoxo read more