I've had a number of massages in spa-style settings before, but this is my first experience at a place that specializes in therapeutic bodywork. I have been having a lot of issues with posture-related misalignment and back pain and wanted to find a massage therapist whom I could visit semi-regularly. Shout-out to Mason. I've had two sessions so far and have been extremely impressed with their knowledge and skills. On my first visit Mason asked me a lot of questions about my issues and watched me do a few exercises to determine a plan of action. Mason clearly has a deep and holistic understanding of anatomy and helped alleviate some of my chronic tension/pain after one session, including addressing some tightness in muscle groups that I didn't even know were related to my neck and shoulder issues! Mason checks in regularly about pressure and comfort levels. At the start of my second session I mentioned some life stressors that I had been experiencing and Mason also incorporated some seriously relaxing/gentle techniques that left me feeling calm and ready to tackle life's challenges. I will definitely be back as much as I can - I only wish I could afford to come more often! read more

I had a fantastic experience at Strategic Bodywork. The location was easy to find, and the front office felt immediately welcoming. The ambiance throughout was calming and thoughtfully designed--the lighting was warm and gentle (not harsh like fluorescent), creating a peaceful, grounding atmosphere. The music was soothing, and even the oil used during my session had a subtle, pleasant scent--not overpowering at all. Nehal Narayan was my therapist, and the session itself was exceptional! The environment truly supported the deep, healing work he did. I felt cared for the moment I walked in, and left feeling lighter, both physically and mentally. Highly recommend this place for anyone seeking quality, intentional neuromuscular / trigger point bodywork in a calming space. I'd never had a neuromuscular trigger point massage before, but Nehal exceeded all expectations. What stood out immediately was how he didn't just treat the pain--he helped me understand WHY it was happening. I've had persistent left back pain for over 3 years, and no chiropractor nor PT ever pinpointed the cause the way he did. He confirmed a suspicion I'd long had: my sleeping position was a major factor. I'm a side-sleeper and Nehal showed me how to sleep without overstretching my back or compromising my core. During the session, he worked deeply with his elbows on areas no massage therapist had ever touched--my neck (areas near my throat) and even my abdomen--really vulnerable areas. When he pressed a trigger point in my stomach and said that was the root of my back pain. I could feel he was right--I could feel sensations on my back where the pain usually is! Who would've thought?! His calm, respectful presence and unhurried approach made the session feel both thorough and grounding. He wrapped it up by showing me targeted stretches to maintain the progress at home. I left feeling not only relieved but empowered--and I'll absolutely be back. read more

My daughter treated me to a wonderful 90 day treatment to address a pain in my side, extreme neck tension and vertigo. Nehal was fantastic. He adjusted pressure as needed and my neck hasn't felt this good in years.! I was provided a couple of exercises to do at home to keep this feeling of tension release. I'm definitely going back and extremely pleased with my experience. read more

Had a 75 minute session yesterday with Juan Carlos. I received a wonderful deep tissue massage. I could literally feel the knots being released from my upper back. Towards the end I was starting to fall asleep, felt so relaxed, my body feels so much better now, I definitely had a lot of built up stress/tension in my body that was released by this massage. Nice office location, easy check in and the inside feels very clean and calm. I will definitely be back and am so glad I found this place. read more

Sergio did a fine deep tissue massage to address sudden back pains I had been having. I was visiting from out of town and they easily got me an appointment that day read more

My friends booked me in for a bodywork session here as a birthday gift and I was not disappointed by the experience! I'm usually someone who prefers firm pressure and go for massages to work out aches and pains caused by my poor posture and compounded by running or cycling (as opposed to pure relaxation). Strategic Bodywork fit the bill - they were able to resolve some knots that had been causing me to have back pain and a stiff neck for a couple of weeks and I left feeling a couple of inches taller than I was when I walked in! The venue itself is in a quaint and typical older Oakland building and the decor in the business itself is vibrant with plenty of hanging plants and colourful blankets. Although it is close to Grand Lake and in an older building, the room I was in was pretty well insulated from any sort of street noise, which adds to the relaxation of it all. read more

I scheduled 3 massages for myself, my daughter and my son-in-law, and we each loved our massages. My massage was with Juan Carlos, who has a very intuitive touch and was very willing to work with me to adjust pressure, get just the right spots to release tension and use resisted stretches to help the tight muscle bands let go. He did a great job! My daughter loved her massage with Arielle, who understands a lot about body mechanics and gave my daughter very helpful advice for what to work with on her own. My son-in-law also got a great massage from Nehal. He stores a lot of tension in his neck and shoulders and got a lot of work in those areas to release tension. Nehal showed him how to work on his SCMs on his own, too. All in all, we are 3 very satisfied customers! read more

I tried two different bodyworkers: Juan Carlos and Nehal. Both were excellent. Price is reasonable. I highly recommend.

This was my first time to Strategic Bodywork and I will definitely be coming back! Diana was very cordial and attentive to my needs, starting with a conversation about my various ailments and continuing throughout the massage. I have really tight hips and I was impressed with how impactful just one session was with her. My range of motion improved remarkably during the session, and for the first time in a long time, I didn't wake up with noticeably tight hips. I also really appreciated that this was not a "passive" massage - she moved/positioned me in ways that maximized impact. Cannot recommend Strategic Bodywork enough! read more

The part one comes for: Kiara B. has the skillllllllllllls. Seriously. Sometimes in life you just manage to heave yourself across any number of finish lines. As if to say, "I made it here, now I am all broken". I heaped my unknowledgeable body brokenness into Kiara office and left a functional being again. All within an hour. Those are some serious, serious skills. I've been on a near year long run of non-stop self neglect of body. If a massage therapist can unwind that mess (and I assure you she did) she deserves a national commendation. She's also a really phenomenal communicator. She checked in at different points to see how it was going. Never forced a vibe or a silence. And gave the overall experience a sense of ceremony. Also, in her own words, she's "used to working on moms" so as my whole body is still recalibrating after delivering my chungus of son I don't know how she found and resolved all the super stressed out places but, she did! In Leonard Cohen terms "Love is not a victory march. It's a cold and it's a broken Hallelujah." Leaving the office after the massage I was very much in my hallelujah place. The building: There are stairs on the front of this building. And then inside there are two flights of stairs up to the office. It's on Grand Ave. So, why not get a massage and then walk over to walden pond books or something? I'm sure you can find any variety of ways to enjoy a weekend day nearby. It's a great location. The office: It's a blue leafy space full of plants. So far I've been in two of the massage rooms and found one to have a sweeping view of houses on the hills above Grand Ave (with the shade dropped for the minimally clothed time) and another room that was more cozy and denlike with a smaller window. Both rooms had their individual merits. The whole experience: 200% read more

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Just had an incredible massage with Mason. Their pressure and style was truly outstanding. It's hands down one of the best massages I've had. The cozy atmosphere is super chill and relaxing, as well. Highly recommend! read more

My session with Sam Weinstein at Strategic Bodywork was phenomenal! I went in with a constricted neck, and very tight legs-the result of a ton of stress I've been carrying lately. Sam's presence was welcoming and curious, he took time to understand the history of my state. I felt very seen by his questions. When he began working on me, I could tell he had a ton of intelligence in the right places to target, with a sensitive touch. He balanced the right level of conversation, education and quiet. I loved asking him questions about trigger points and radiant pain patterns, and learning about how my nervous system and musculoskeletal system are literally intertwined. I can feel Sam's passion for his work, and my body was much happier and in less pain when I left. Thank you Sam! read more

I did a 60-minute session with Arielle, and it was such a lovely experience. I explained I was having neck and shoulder pain and tension, I think due to my work. She was so gentle, yet thorough. I went in with a headache and left feeling very relaxed with no headache. Would recommend. read more

I booked a session with Diana for my husband, who has work-related and old sports injuries that leave him in pain most of the time. He came back absolutely beaming because he was feeling comfortable in his body and relaxed for the first time in a long while. He's had bodywork with other therapists before but this is the first time I've seen him looking so pain-free. I highly recommend Diana for people who want more than just a relaxing massage but a truly healing and therapeutic one! read more

I had a 90 minute session with Kiara who is an absolute gem. Kiara combined Swedish techniques with cupping and motion/mobility to restore movement in my very stiff and sore body. I came in suffering from whiplash, muscle spasms and tightness from a sports impact injury. This was easily one of the best massages I've ever gotten. Kiara is calm and thoughtful, builds safety and trust in clients and provides education on the body and techniques applied. The lotion used smelled incredible and Kiara explained that this kind of lotion was best for my injuries. Kiara communicates, takes feedback, and is adaptable to whatever kind of space/environment the client needs in that moment. Kiara also gave me recommendations for aftercare which were greatly appreciated. Strategic bodywork's administrator helped me select which masseuse to go with via text and was spot on based on my injuries. They also helped me when I needed a follow-up appointment and were very understanding. read more

I received a fantastic massage from Karla today and all of my problem areas feel thoroughly worked and relieved of pain and tension. The office was easy to locate and serene. Karla checked in with me about pressure, room temperature and areas to focus on. I feel relaxed and will definitely be returning - I look forward to it. The online scheduling is also easy to do and understand. Thank you! read more

Arielle is awesome! Gentle yet effective. Great experience! If online booking doesnt work give them a call, they are very responsive!

I love getting bodywork from people with intuitive intelligent hands and Diana is just that person. Diana knows the body so very well. She has a ton of experience as a personal trainer and a nutritionist, and she continuously educates herself on whatever studies come out in the world of health. I absolutely trust her with my body. As a 4-5 days a week crossfitter in their late thirties, I am often sore and creaky and she always makes me feel way better and moving smoother. I haven't had sessions with anyone else at Strategic, but knowing that Diana is the manager and a person of great integrity, I am sure everyone else there is excellent too. read more

I was suffering from neck and shoulder pain for the past 3 weeks. Not only was Nehal able to set it right so I could turn my head again but also let me know where my body needed more attention and where I had knots and tightness by just feeling my back. read more

All I can say I feel so relax and reconnected with my body. Sam Weinstein was so in tune with what my body needed to relieve stress and relax my muscles. Thank you. read more

Kiara gave me an incredible massage. I loved her style and how she opened and closed the session. She has real skill and intuition. I'm so grateful to her! read more

I've had two amazing sessions with Franny. She was exactly what I needed without knowing! I really appreciate how safe I feel with her and the general atmosphere she creates. She feels so considerate but confident. They really were great experiences, I'd recommend her to anyone. read more

I recently injured myself and decided to get my first massage. Yolanda worked on my back legs and shoulders and it was a really fantastic visit. It was a very relaxing environment and she really made made my back and neck feel much better. She is a super nice and engaging person. The space is really nice with many beautiful plants and a wonderful soothing atmosphere. I would highly recommend Strategic Bodywork and also Yolanda. read more

I have worked with Diana many times to reduce the surmounting tension in my body. I have found I can sleep better and improve my stress. She comes equipped with a friendly personality, great technical skill and is versatile. If you want deep work she also is trained in Ashiatsu which really opened me up! As a physical therapist I often recommended people to her to compliment any rehab program I prescribe! Can't wait for my next session! Thanks! read more

I just had the best massage of my life from Karla. Perfect in every way. I'll be booking a massage with her every time I'm in Oakland.

Diane at Strategic Bodywork gave me one of the best deep tissue massages I have ever had. The room was very clean and comfortable. I highly recommend Diane! read more

I highly recommend Arielle for her expertise. I have had several appointments with her and am always amazed at her ability to locate the area causing pain/discomfort in order to provide relief. I've seen several massage therapists for a leg issue, but Arielle was the only one with the knowledge to identify the issue and help me work through it. She has a variety of techniques and often uses a gently but firm pressure that is surprisingly effective. She also has the strength to provide deep tissue work as necessary. read more

I came here postpartum and Rachel N's massage was one of the best I've ever had. I felt so relaxed afterwards and so taken care of. Will definitely be back! read more

I had a great massage with Sam! His energy was very calming and he was very attentive to the types of activities I do and past injuries, which made for a very productive and relaxing massage. I will be back! read more

Arielle is truly the best. I first saw her at Piedmont spa and then when it shut down during the pandemic I specifically searched for her because it was the best massage I'd ever had. I then went to her after having a headache every day for 9 months and she cured them! I go to get for maintenance on the neck/shoulder pain and anything else that comes up. She really listens and can feel what your body needs. There is a notable difference for weeks after I see her. read more

This is a review for Arielle at Strategic Bodywork. I recently had surgery on my right shoulder and after six weeks, my shoulder and arm were knotted up and inflexible. I explained to Arielle what I thought I needed and she gave me an amazing massage and brought back a lot of movement to my shoulder and arm. She understood what needed to be done, found all the tight spots and applied the perfect pressure. I can only give the highest recommendation of five stars, but she deserves more. She will be my new go to massage therapist. She is truly amazing. read more

It is a true gift when you come across a massage therapist like Zachariah, that has that passion to heal and the knowledge to listen to the body's ailments. His positive energy infuses relaxation and guides the client to breathe and work together to find the awareness and patterns in the muscles to feel better. I highly recommend Zachariah and encourage you to discover his skill set for yourself. Patricia W. read more

I'd love to suggest booking a session with Yolanda! Yolanda has a very warm and caring soul, and her work leaves you feeling very relaxed and rejuvenated. I very much appreciated her work on me :) read more

I've been coming here for years, so it's about time I wrote a review. Each massage therapist is unique. Haley has his own techniques and I've been told by other's that their body wouldn't function without his hands. Kelsey made me cry once with her Ashiatsu massage, where they walk on your back, because yes, she was THAT good. Diana is strong and firm, and with her background as a personal trainer, is very knowledgable about muscles/the body. I just had a massage with Rachel today for my birthday, and what a birthday present to myself! She was perfectly firm and super sweet. She got into all the right places, and I'll be back. So far, I haven't found a massage therapist at Strategic Bodywork I didn't like. It's nice to have such a selection of talented massage therapists with a variety of specialties and availabilities. I know a lot of people like to stick with one massage therapist, but when I need a massage, I need it now. So, if I don't have one booked in advance, I can always find an opening with one of Strategic Bodywork's amazing staff. Would definitely recommend! read more

Haley Winter is one of the most skilled body workers I have had the honor, and relief, to work with. Just by listening to me, asking key question, and a little bit of muscle testing, he was able to determine the nature and subtlety of the injury. Then, with strength and precision he worked deep enough to force the offending muscle to relax. I went into his office in intense, constant pain, and after his treatment things went to light discomfort, full mobility, and then pain free, all over the course of the following 12 hours. His office is clean and simple, and his bedside manner calm and pleasant. If you have any deep muscle issues, or scarred muscle from injuries, I strongly suggest paying him a visit. He has a fairly flexible schedule, but you need to call or text ahead of time to confirm an appointment. His office is actually in the middle of a bunch of women's health services that occupy a small building. Keep an eye out for his sign out front, and go straight through the small lobby to get to his office. read more

Strategic Bodywork - Office front. - Massage Therapy Near Me - Oakland, California

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I have tried many, many massage therapists in the Bay Area, but my 75 min session with Kelsey Webb last week stands out as one of the best. First off, Strategic Bodywork is beautiful - plants everywhere, welcoming atmosphere, it feels like you are stepping into a warm home. Kelsey is talented, professional, and warm. I will certainly be coming here again! read more

I love coming here and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for skilled and professional bodywork. Everyone at Strategic Bodywork genuinely cares about you and your healing. The massage is therapeutic AND relaxing, which is exactly what I'm looking for when I get a massage. The therapists here know what they're doing and are passionate about helping me get back into alignment and full mobility. It's a beautiful, calming space in a great location. Convenient AND quiet. Oh, and because there are multiple therapists here it's easy to get an appointment! I've already referred a few of my friends :) read more

Haley and his team are the real thing. I loved my massage. My wife and I visited with Kelsey Webb, one of the therapists, and she was the perfect balance of so many different approaches to massage: Therapeutic, Relieving, Restorative, and Relaxing. Big smile emoji. read more

Haley has the perfect touch. He's super tuned in and always seems to know exactly how much pressure to use. He listened to what was going on in my body, was sensitive where he needed to be, and applied plenty of pressure to go deep in the areas that needed it. He also just has good vibes. He's a master. read more