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Osetra Wellness Massage Therapy Center
Categories: Beauty and Spas Massage Local Services Massage, Local Services [Edit]
1730 Amphlett BlvdSte 206
San Mateo, CA 94402
(866) 826-7189
$75 for a $100.00(value) Gift Card
When you by a Gift Certificate, for $100.00, it will only cost you $75.00. What a deal, buy a massage for someone that you love today!
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 9 am - 7:30 pm
Sun 10 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Accepts Insurance:
- Yes
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
46 reviews for Osetra Wellness Massage Therapy Center
46 reviews in English
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Review from Kimberly G.
San Bruno, CA
Updated - 1/15/2012
Went to Alex for a 2nd time and was thrilled not only the physical relief the massage provided, but the advice and insight he provided. Not only did he pin point some physical issues I was unaware of including carpal tunnel and some pain-inducing toe alignments, he offered detailed info on where to find solutions and minor things to start bringing into my life. While I love a good massage, I'm more grateful for the combination of providing relief with educational info to maintain the relief in daily life. All of which Alex did.
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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9/22/2011
2nd massage here- first time was with Alex...amazing. This time around I went with Dolley- who's… Read more »
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Review from Jenny C.
9/13/2011
I'm a massage snob and I've had lot of massage, most of them would be 3-star quality with a few 4-star ones. This is yet another time when I wish yelp does half stars...It's slightly better than a 3-star "A-OK"...
So anyways, I got a deal on trubates and scheduled an appointment with Alex since the ratings here rave about him.
I have to say I was a bit disappointed. In my opinion, Alex isn't bad, but definitely not a 5-star. He did hit some good spots here and there. However, even though I scheduled for a deep tissue, it felt more like a swedish massage. I like pretty deep pressure and pressure point kinda massages. I had asked him to put more pressure in the beginning but it felt like he kinda went back to a lighter touch, I didn't ask him to deepen the pressure again because there were occasions when the pressure kinda hurt.
I also feel that he didn't spend as much time on my shoulders/back like I had asked him to, nor my quads (I don't think he massaged my quads at all). I told him I run a lot, and it seemed that he kinda took it upon himself to spend (what I felt like too much) time on my feet and calves (when I really wanted him to massage my quads).
Hey maybe Alex and I are just not a good fit. Maybe he's more suitable for more relaxing massages vs. get the kinks out of your muscles and really dig into those knots. -
Review from Masha M.
Redwood City, CA
6/25/2011
The BEST massage EVER!!!
OMG! I have found the place where I will be coming back and back.
Alex is very intuitive and knows the human body like no other therapist.
This is not a place to get a relaxing soothing massage. This is THE place to get the massage that will make you relaxed, recharged, and feeling brand new.
I went there to get at least a bit of relief from neck, shoulder, arm and back pain. Aahhh, I found it! -
Review from Jackie D.
San Mateo, CA
5/2/2011
This is top notch massaging. I've only had Sophia and it was the kind of massage where you're not sure you should be driving yourself home afterward. It was the kind of massage that makes you a floppy droopy eyed mass of feel goodness-ness. It is just not in my price range to go regularly so it's not my monthly hit of massage smack.
That is not to say they are strangely expensive or anything (pretty comparable), I just realized that monthly massages are crucial to my well being and health and this would not mesh with my budget. A treat/special occasion for sure though. Went there on my birthday for 90 minutes of pure bliss. -
Review from Vic C.
San Francisco, CA
4/6/2011
The best massage you can get for any money!
I had running issues and still get them now and then, but Alex fixes it. For example IT band. I went to a good chiropractor, they did not fix it. Doc says don't run for a month and get a roller (I did get the roller). I had Alex, and ran 2 days after.
Also the entire body is taken care of, any spot that needs help is detected and fixed. -
Review from Emily M.
3/25/2011
I had a deal from Trubates on a 90 minute massage from Osetra, so I decided to give it a try as a local backup massage provider (I could never stop going to Kathy Christensen as my main masseuse!!). Their online booking system impressed me. It was so convenient.
Lixia was friendly did a great job on my massage - my hip pain was immediately addressed and fixed. I also appreciated the aromatherapy she did too. The atmosphere isn't the best ever, though - it was Saturday at noon and someone was leafblowing outside and the music was from satellite radio. Every so often they did a station identification, which is kind of weird when you're zoning out to relaxing music during a massage...
Overall, good as a backup. I feel a little bad that I am one of those daily deal people who gets a deal and doesn't go back... but you win some, you lose some. -
Review from Abby S.
1/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
Oh Em G
Alex rocked my world on Saturday! I'm not talking about in a sexy way; rather, he gave me the best 60 minute massage that I've ever had!
Woke up this weekend with a terrible kink in my neck. Pretty sure it was a pinched nerve due to sleeping on an air mattress for the past 2-3 weeks. Normally I'd look up a good chiropractor, but most aren't open on Saturdays, and this problem needed to be addressed ASAP. So I did a little research on Yelp and found Osetra. They're open on Saturdays AND take online appointments. Done and done!
As many have indicated, the office here isn't your typical spa experience. Though it does smell good inside and has a spa-like feel to it. Also, the receptionist was super friendly and I enjoyed talking with her before my appointment very much.
Originally I had scheduled a 30 minute appointment with Alex, but as soon as I walked in and was barely able to move my head from side to side, it was suggested that we do a full hour instead. With the awesome Yelp check-in offer, how could I resist?
Oh man, am I glad that we did an hour! It was uh-ma-zing. Not only did he work on my neck, but my arms, shoulders, calves and feet. Apparently I'm not taking very good care of myself these days and my neck was screaming out in protest. I'm sure it'll be a lot happier when I get a bed, but still it's sound advice from Alex.
One final note - Alex has one of the best pedicures that I've seen on anyone, let alone a man. Turquoise toes are pretty awesome to watch when getting the knots worked out of your back :)
Will be back for sure!Listed in: Life Savers, South Bay, SF, My 'Hood, Hangover Cures
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Review from Jessica L.
San Mateo, CA
11/8/2010 1 Check-in Here
ALERT ALERT: San Mateo businesses jump on this bandwagon and do ONLINE booking! It makes life easier and most SF places already do it. So hurry up and get with the program.
For some reason this is the only place with online massage bookings in San Mateo - and that is awesome, bc you can book last minute and see what is available.
This place is nothing fancy - it is in an office building, around the back. However the massage was GREAT. In fact, I would go as far as to say Sofia gave me the best hot stone massage I have had in a long time.
It is not super cheap, but again the massage quality is very good. First time clients get a little discount too.
So if you need quick relief without the Day Spa part - go online and book here. There you go, quick and easy.Listed in: San Ma-awesome, I feel pretty, oh so pretty
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Review from Masako S.
Redwood City, CA
12/13/2010
I love their online booking system!
No hassle to call.. just pick your favorite therapist, see when is available...
Then I met Alex, born to be a healer....the best body worker I have ever met. It is hard to explain what his energy body work is like, but it certainly fixed my body.
Definitely, I will be knowing about him for long time...he gives me confidence of how to maintain my wellness.
I'm grateful to get to know Alex! -
Review from Kim G.
Ventura, CA
2/21/2011
Emily Sturtevant is an angel. Now, before you think that receiving a massage from an angel might not be such a good thing -- think again! Her hands are amazing.
Emily makes no claims to being a "healer" -- but I can tell you from personal experience that she IS...just because of WHO she is.
She is caring. She pays attention. She is dedicated to what she does -- she loves massaging. This is not just a job to her, she really cares. (Oh, I think I said that already!) ...but it bears repeating.
Emily is new to Osetra, and I hope her clientele builds quickly. Getting down to San Mateo is a bit of a trek for me -- but I don't care because she is really worth the drive :-). -
Review from julie h.
Belmont, CA
7/14/2011
Sophia, you are amazing!!! You know how to "listen" to what my body needs and you always know just what to do!
Sophia's massages heal my body and release the tension, and pain. I have been going to her regularly for over a year and I wouldn't dream of going anywhere else (been there, done that... ) You truly get what you pay for from Sophia Barnes! She is a professional expert masseuse and knows what she is doing! And OMG, the hot rock massages are heavenly for a special treat! -
Review from Jill J.
San Mateo, CA
6/21/2011
Had seen Lixia a couple times and really miss her. I had purchased a "package" deal and since Lixia had personal matters to tend to I went to see Emily. I wasn't so sure at first- I'm super weird about massages. The first visit was so-so. The second time I went to Emily everything fit into place perfectly. I continue to see her and will! EMILY listens with her ears & her hands. One time I wasn't feeling quite right but couldn't pinpoint anything specific. Well, the masterful Emily figured it out. I didn't want to get off the table. (I probably would have paid an extra $50 to occupy the room for the next hour.)
I feel so much better after seeing her. As another Yelper said, she is an Angel. She cares about her work and her clients. She has accommodated me more than necessary with last minute scheduling changes due to whatever life has thrown at me. I appreciate her flexibility GREATLY!
Its not a fancy pants boutique. This is why I believe the prices are so reasonable. Don't let the simplicity of the place fool you. Osetra/Emily is worth every penny. -
Review from Ron W.
Menlo Park, CA
12/7/2010
Although I have not visited him at Osetra, I notice that my therapist for over 4 years, Alex Mayorkis, is now seeing clients here.
Alex's work is terrifically helpful in keeping those of who work out intensely to recover, heal, and continue to progress. Trained in Eastern Euro, Alex clearly understands how active bodies function. It's one thing to understand anatomy and quite another to understand the body in motion. His mantra "Everything is connected" is wise & true beyond any fad of the moment. Alex's clients include runners, swimmers, and rowers. As well, Alex is quite fit & disciplined himself. His work can be intense, but I find his healing touch to be essential in helping to keep me healthy and functioning. At 59, I am fully healthy and running 30 miles a week, so something must be working right.
Oh, if massage is going to be beneficial then it needs to be done regularly as a preventative. Expecting a miracle, where a single session corrects a life of bad habits, is silly. Go see Alex soon and see him often! -
Review from Thanuja Z.
San Mateo, CA
8/12/2011
My first experience at Osetra with Alex was (I hate to say this but...) disappointing. He was more of a physical therapist than a massage therapist, plus he didn't give me any quiet time (he kept pointing at various part of my body and explaining it needed healing!) when all I wanted to do during a massage was relax...!
I had a second appointment a week later with Sophia (after I spoke to her about my initial experience), and it was one of the best massages ever. Granted Sophia went above and beyond to make up for my first experience but I couldn't feel all the tight spots I walked in with. If you are a new client, go to Sophia... its worth the extra $ and yes, she does charge more than the others! I took 1 star away for the unsatisfactory first visit. -
Review from Jamie G.
Santa Clara, CA
6/6/2011
Best Massage Ever...Thank you Alex! He knew the right technique and had the right amount of pressure. Was all about making sure it was right for me. He is a professional and great at what he does!
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Review from Hannah W.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 7/14/2010
Just an update to say that I've been seeing Sophia now for five months now. Not only has she continued to improve my quality of life through massage, but she's also given me nutritional advice which has helped tremendously.
Not to mention, Sophia is just wonderful and fun to talk to. I always leave her leaving feeling healthy and whole.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/18/2010
Sophia is a healer.
I came to her with pain in between my shoulder blades and lower back. She found… Read more »
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Review from Moto GP G.
San Mateo, CA
5/11/2011
This is how a real massage should feel like.
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Review from Kate P.
San Francisco, CA
11/16/2009
Sophia is fantastic! She has an incredibly sweet, warm spirit and is very intuitive about body work. After my appointment, I told her she truly was a healer and I will definitely be back again!
As a little background...I was rear ended on 101 last Thursday and my whole back was pretty tight. Being new to the neighborhood, I decided to search 'massage' on yelp. I contacted Osetra and the nicest person answered the phone. He helped me figure out the best type of massage to get, considering the circumstances, and fit me in the very next day. The massage was fantastic - I was transported to another world! Overall, I had a wonderful experience with Osetra Wellness and am looking forward to going back soon! -
Review from Sara S.
Salinas, CA
6/16/2011
Emily at Ostera Wellness gives great massages! She has been working on me for five years now and everytime I feel much better. I am super picky about massage and Em's my favorite. Book now!
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Review from Tim G.
San Mateo, CA
4/12/2010
Sophia has great hands and good healing technique.
I'm a massage junkie and this woman sells good crack.
Soft smooth motion combined with firm feel for where the pain areas are.
Nice warm table, serene atmosphere, good communication. Sophia will have you wishing to take a nap, or that you booked 90 instead of 30 minutes.
Convenient location near 92/101.
Go for the hot stones...great relief from stress. -
Review from Selenia M.
San Mateo, CA
12/13/2010
Lixia Mock is the best massage therapist you will ever have. Lixia is intuitive and knows exactly where her hands/fingers and elbows are guided. She will work out your knots..give your feet the best feeling ever and you will float out of your session. I've known her massage for years and won't go with any else!
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Review from Tiff g.
Maplewood, NJ
3/19/2010
I just got back from my appt. and I'm not sure how I'm even able to type this review. I am still in lala land! My massage was incredible...what Sophia can do with her hands is amazing!
I'm currently 33 weeks pregnant(with some typical pregnancy aches and pains) and was in need of the perfect touch...well I found it in Sophia. I've never felt like this after a massage. She took me to that peaceful place that I was so desperately desiring. I actually felt certain kinks "pop" and what a relief.
I'm so happy and can't wait to start this beautiful weekend with my family!
Thank you so much Sophia!
A previous poster said it best, you literally feel like you're "walking on air when you leave" -
Review from Jeanne A.
Martinez, CA
2/21/2011
The best massages I've ever had are from Emily Sturtevant. She is now at this Wellness Center, and you'll be very satisfied if you have Emily as your massage therapist.
I love the way she gently warms up your muscles before working on them. She really knows the structure of the body, and sometimes working on one muscle really helps another one that you didn't know was related! I agree that Emily has healing hands - they're nice and warm when she gives you a massage.
When you go to Oestra, pick Emily as your therapist and you won't be disappointed! -
Review from Cimeron M.
San Mateo, CA
1/13/2011
Alex has got to be the best massage therapist on the planet. He has an incredible ability to find all my body's knots, but his true gift is his ability to locate the source and causes of the knots and help correct those problem areas so that my muscles are happy for days after my massage. Alex's philosophy is that everything is connected - one problem area can create problems in other areas of the body and he's very talented at correcting all those problems. He's more than a massage therapist - what he does is more like holistic, healing body work. No matter how sore my muscles are from all my sports or from sitting in front of a computer all day, he is able to make my body feel right again and actually helps improve me so that I don't get as knotted up in the future. He's quite strong, and he always goes the extra mile to rebalance my body and relax my overworked muscles.
A nice bonus is that Alex is really a wonderful, warm person and he's quite funny too, so whenever I see him, it's like being reunited with an old friend. I feel very lucky to have found Alex. Every time I get body work from Alex, both my body and mind feel more relaxed, restored, balanced, and ready for my next challenge. It's like he's hitting the reset button on my body, which feels truly incredible! I highly recommend Alex - he's simply amazing! -
Review from L W.
Gilbert, AZ
12/9/2010
I went on Yelp to find a local message therapist because my back was killing me during one of my business trips... I found Osetra and began to read the wonderful reviews! Then I noticed it was around the corner from my office here in San Mateo- bonus! I used the online booking tool which was great (esp since I work in an open office and don't like everyone to know my business!). I put my name on the waiting list and about 40 minutes later I got a call! They were able to put me in that evening! I was sooooo excited!
Sophia was so great and understanding! She gave me a massage that "hurt so good:)" just what I needed and I did not even realize how tense and sore the rest of my body was! I felt fabulous after 60 minutes of massage bliss! Sophia recommended an epson salt bath that evening and some stretches to keep my back healthy! She has the magic touch and knows about the muscle connections, tendons and body.... try it you will LOVE it! -
Review from kj a.
Foster City, CA
7/27/2011
Alex is definitely the most outstanding massage therapist! He is an intuitive who knows precisely where the body requires treatment to harmonize for improved health and welfare. Do not hesitate, book Alex now as most of the reviewers have recommended. Yet, if you want a sleepy moment on a massage table, Alex is not for you. He is healing the body through massage and is not, I have found, massage you into a sleep with a light touch. Invigorating and inspiring to work on myself to improve my health and lifestyle. Thank you, Alex!
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Review from Judy K.
San Mateo, CA
12/9/2010
I have been receiving massages from Alex during the past year, about every week or two.
I have been very impressed with his knowledge of the body and his ability to find the spots in my body that need attention. He has very good palpations skills, and finds my tight spots without my saying a word.
He has done bodywork for over 18 years, including work on Olympic athletes in the Ukraine, and on owners of massage therapy clinics, if that tells you anything. He uses many different techniques from Russia, China and Mongolia, including pressure point, deep tissue, tai chi and facia release.
I have referred friends to him, as he is a good person to see before considering surgery for hammertoe or frozen shoulder, or other physical ailments.
Alex has helped me in my recovery from elbow surgery, repetitive strain issues, and issues with metatarsal joints in my left foot. His work, and his complete knowledge of the body which he gladly shares with his clients, have helped my return to health after suffering for almost 3 years from debilitating injuries.
He keeps himself in excellent shape, and enthusiastically shares with his clients exercises and stretches that can keep them healthy or prevent injuries.
I have had massages from over a dozen therapists over the years, whether at a spa or in a massage therapy office, and I think Alex' knowledge and understanding of the body surpasses most. -
Review from sally M.
San Carlos, CA
2/10/2008
Sophia is a talented and amazing massage therapist! She is very intuitive when it comes to working on trouble spots and will work those disobeying muscles into submission! Worth every cent!! My aching back thanks her!!
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Review from S. L. F.
Chicago, IL
11/15/2010
This center is simple, relaxing and to the point which is exactly what I liked about the place. I saw Alex and he was terrific. His approach was to create balance and flexibility. He took time to "introduce" himself to my body and from there he was able to work on the areas that needed the greatest amount of release. The center recognizes that while a spa treatment should be relaxing it should also be nourishing and replenishing.
In addition, the pricing is very reasonable with many options available as it pertains to the length and style of massage.
I left today feeling relaxed and ready for more. -
Review from maria m.
San Francisco, CA
11/13/2010
Read all the reviews from fellow yelpers reference Osetra and decided to try it out. Well it is fabulous! Everyone is so friendly and the massages are to die for....It is not a fancy spa but the service is outstanding.
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Review from Stephanie H.
Ripon, CA
2/23/2011
I've had many massages throughout my adult life and I can confidently say that Emily Sturtevant is one of the best I've ever received. As a new therapist at Osetra, I encourage anyone to make an appointment and find out for yourself. She really listens, has strong hands, and she cares.
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Review from Melanie N.
Belmont, CA
Updated - 12/31/2009
Sophia is still awesome. Best massages! custom tailored to your specific needs.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/11/2007 First to Review
Message from Sophia Barnes (owner and massage therapist):
"Your body did not become stressed… Read more »
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Review from Jenna M.
San Mateo, CA
3/2/2011
So i'm not the best Yelper, as this is only my second review. On Monday.. my boyfriend and I purchased a trubates coupon for 90 min massage at an exceptional price.. we were so excited. This was to be my first massage..ever... I was so giddy on the way there, that I had to calm down =) so on to the review. I made my appointment with Alex and my boyfriend with Emily. I had read amazing reviews about Alex and was super excited. So we find the place and found it to be in an office building, which is not a problem because the inside of their office is spa like and the massage rooms were nice and relaxing. I met Alex and we filled out paperwork then he asked me to come to the room. he asked what i did for work. I said one i was at the computer all day and the other i was on my feet... he made a tsking noise. I have to say that i loved Alex's personality. very healing and spiritual. I just wish that he would have asked more questions.. so i got undressed (while he waited outside) and then we started. at first everything was going fine, until he started applying pressure. to be honest, it was a very painful massage for me. it didn't take me until the middle of the 90 minutes to realize i was getting a different kind of massage. I know that alot of yelpers love this type of massage, as it tells them where they have problem areas and it "fixes" them. not me. I was actually bruised the next day and felt like i got into a car accident. He was pointing out everywhere on my body where there was a problem. which i appreciated. but this wasn't the type of massage i wanted. i just wanted a relaxing massage and just to feel good. not like i got hit by a mack truck. i'm not saying this is completely Alex's fault. he did an amazing job on the type of massage he was giving. I should have been more vocal about what type of massage I wanted.. I just wish he would have done a more thorough consultation to see what i wanted... so that is why i gave 4 1/2 stars instead of 5. my boyfriend who had Emily said she was amazing... and got a nice relaxing massage.. LOL. oh well. next time I'll be more vocal. go see Alex if you have alot of body issues that you need worked out. but tell him you want a gentle massage if you're looking for a more relaxing massage....
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Review from Missy C.
Foster City, CA
2/2/2010
Thank you Sophia! I tried Osetra massage based on the other Yelp reviews and was not disappointed. Sophia knows her stuff and is so intuitive about what your body needs. I felt completely safe, warm, relaxed and so good by the end of my 90 minute deep tissue massage. Going back for sure!
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Review from Ian M.
San Mateo, CA
12/20/2009
Sophia gives the hands-down smartest and most-effective massages I have ever received. There are many massages I've had where I walk out feeling like putty, but am all wound up again within days. With her, the positive effects last weeks! Highly recommended, especially for folks like me who wind up hunched over their keyboards for too long every day.
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Review from Shirin B.
San Mateo, CA
2/20/2011
Alex is one of those rare masseurs who intuitively knows your body and how it's feeling. He's a body whisperer. And I was so wrapped up in buying a series so that I could see him again, that I forgot to tip him. It didn't ruffle his aura in the slightest. But I won't forget next time!
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Review from Lelana C.
Burlingame, CA
11/15/2009
I am so impressed with my sessions with Sophia. She is a sincere, loving and caring person who knows her business and has trained her assistants to be and do as well. I practically fell asleep during my treatment, and when I got up, I felt six inches taller! I am looking forward to my warm stone massage for my back. I agree that she is very intuitive and prides herself on giving quality care. I highly recommend Osetra Wellness.
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Review from julie j.
San Carlos, CA
2/23/2011
I had a massage from Alex this week. It was awesome. He definitely understands how the whole body is connected and knows his stuff. I'm going back!
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Review from Monica W.
Oakland, CA
2/8/2010
I have been receiving massages for years and I was very excited to find a massage therapist in the building where I work. Sophia Barnes really knows how to work out the kinks! She is professional, listens to you before starting the massage and really focuses on where I need tension release. The location is clean, quiet and very relaxing. I now get massages at least once every three weeks.
Sophia is one of the best around :-) -
Review from Leslie W.
Foster City, CA
9/17/2008
Sophia Barnes, the owner of Osetra Wellness has magic hands. I have been to several message therapists and Sophia is truely one of the best I have experienced!
I have never felt so good!
She is a must in my book!
