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True Massage & Wellness
Rating Details »
Category: Massage
Neighborhood: Union Square760 Market St
Ste 817
(between Grant Ave & Ofarrell St)
San Francisco, CA 94102
(415) 677-9461
Take $20 OFF Your First Appointment
Take $20 off your first appointment when you book online. Use booking code "yelp". Not valid on packages.
Announced 28 hours ago- Hours:
Mon-Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Sat-Sun. 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
122 reviews for True Massage & Wellness
This business is a Yelp Sponsor
2/23/2009
11/14/2009
11/6/2009
10/28/2009
10/24/2009
9/3/2009
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Updated - 11/13/2009
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11/9/2008
One of the Business' Favorite Reviews What's This?
I have never had a professional massage before. I always imagined spa type massages where it smells funny, they rub your back a little, then you drink herbal tea. A couple of years ago I bought a 5-pack on a special True Massage was having. I gave 3 of them away as gifts and kept a couple so I can give it a try and see what the hype was all about. Well the time was now.
Having never had a massage before I brought a backpack with change of clothes, shorts/tshirt/etc. I was surprised that its normal to get buck naked for these things. Maybe a hundred massages from now I'll wear my birthday suit, but for now I'll keep my undies on. Mary was fine with that.
Mary was very professional and accommodating on what I wanted. She asked about any particular areas to focus on, any trouble spots, etc. Since I felt fine, I told her to just do her normal routine. If she hit a ticklish spot she'd know because I'd be 2 feet above the table. I always knew my muscles were somewhat tight but I never thought it adversely affected me in any way. She worked on my various body parts and found knots in muscles I didn't even know I had. I told her not to worry about too much pressure because I wanted to get as much knots out as possible. She explained what she was doing, trigger points, various techniques, etc etc.
Initially I wondered how can a massage take 60 minutes and I wondered who would buy 90 minutes? But when she was done I was surprised. Wow time flies. This definitely wasn't a foofoo massage and I felt good, but I still wasn't quite sure what all the hype was about.
The moment of truth was the next day. I woke up a bit sore as expected, but felt kinda sick. I had a cough for a few days so I thought I was finally succumbing to whatever bug was out there. Unfortunately I had a scheduled ride with my buddy so I popped some ibuprofen. The first 10-20 miles I felt weak. But at some point I felt better, then later I felt fantastic, like someone took the kryptonite out of my back pocket. Mary mentioned that some people feel flu-like symptoms after their first massage and that's what it must've been. After all that toxic waste worked its way out I was a new man. I even powered up that last ballbuster hill in Twin Peaks instead of taking God's name in vain like usual.
Yeah I'm a massage convert. I've always heard that massage (and yoga) are good for triathletes, but I never listened. I thought my foam roller and The Stick were all I needed. Massage surely isn't just some foofoo, luxury pleasure outing for the women folk. Insurance should cover this stuff. Call your congressman!
I'm scheduling my next appointment for a month from now. I'll be sure to wear my best Superman Underoos.
So, I messed up my back a couple months ago and decided to get some therapy to speed the recovery process. My therapist was Kira. She was very professional, receptive to my needs (aka pain), and provide an excellent deep tissue massage. I went back for a second appointment with Kira the following week and she was able to work out the last of the kinks.
Based on my results, the massage definitely helped me recover faster from my injury, and I thank Kira and True Massage for that :)
If you're looking for a good massage, True can definitely provide. They are located in a convenient Market St. location, on the BART line (Powell St Station), inside the Phelan Building near Union Square. The accommodations are minimal with a small front office and two rooms with massage tables. If you're looking for a chichi massage spa, this place won't fit the bill. However, if you want a no nonsense massage, this place will meet your needs. Making an appointment is done on-line and you pay prior to your massage.
Comment from Mary J. of
True Massage & Wellness
11/17/2009
A recent change: you now pay onsite, AFTER your session!…
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This review is long overdue,well better late than never. I've been scouring online for a massage place as well as asking people for recommendations. Alas, log into yelp and found them.
The location is very convenient and you'll never guess there is a massage place at the heart of downtown San Francisco. The price is right and the service is very personal and professional.
Please excuse me if i can't recall the owner's name, she was the one who did my massage... since one of the therapist had an important duty to do.
A BIG THANK YOU to you and showing me an exercise that would help to strenghten my core. I will definitely go back to this place and highly recommended for first timers and long time massage goers.
Had a massage yesterday with Caitlin.
Holy moly.
and I say again:
Holy moly.
It was that good.
The woman is amazing.
She looks tiny. But is so powerful!
And I am a massage connoisseur, having had them at fancy day spas around the world, no-nonsense physical therapy offices, and everywhere inbetween.
What I really appreciated about Caitlin is that she utilized some techniques that I had never experienced before -- moving my limbs in certain ways, to better get into places of tension and opening. She is very attentive and worked wonders. She also put up with my crazy murmurings --- at a couple of points during the massage, I actually floated away and had weird 10-second-long euphoric daydreams, causing me to drool and vocalize. Nothing like that has ever happened to me at a massage before. I chalk it up to the incredible release of pent up tension, (and not any kind of bizarre psychadelic wafting through the air vents.....)
The location is incredibly convenient, the website appointment system is a great thing, and the massage room itself is very calming and relaxing.
Can't wait to go back.
I made an appt online. Then had to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances. When I called on Saturday to find out why I hadn't been credited for the appt I cancelled on Weds (they make you pay BEFORE getting the massage which is ridiculous and highly inefficient for just this reason - when you cancel, you have to WAIT to get your money back when you haven't even received ANY service). I was very nice and asked politely about it and just happened to be speaking to the woman, Mary, I had booked the appt with for Friday. I wanted to make another appt and not go through all the rigmarole again, but she was rude, slow, and acted as if she was perturbed by my inquiries. Since I've never met her and can't comment on her abilities, I'm giving her one star for her professionalism and demeanor and going to OXYGEN MASSAGE THERAPY instead! I highly recommend you do the same.
I haven't even met her yet and she's already put me off with her rude, snotty behavior. Why would I bother trying to be relaxed and "healed" by such a person?
It's 7pm and I just got a voicemail message and yelp message from Mary in response to the review above....here's what I told her in my reply in case you're interested.......
Seriously? Are you seriously hounding me now because I gave my honest opinion about your "service"? You've got to be kidding. Learn how to take an honest, unbiased criticism and learn from it and grow. Your defensive attitude is above and beyond what would be a "normal" response to a review. You told me specifically on your voice mail message you left on my personal cell phone that I was required to provide when making the appt but do not normally give out to the public, that "it's probably best I go somewhere else". So.... why don't you take your own advice and move on. It is what it is. You were and ARE being rude. Stop whining about it now and stop calling and writing me and calling my opinion "shrill". It's possible people will see for themselves now what kind of demeanor you really have.
Comment from Mary J. of
True Massage & Wellness
10/24/2009
I'm so sorry you perceived our conversation this way, Nancy.…
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My shoulders and neck were really tense, to the point where I felt like my head weighed 50 pounds. I desperately needed a massage, or a really good beating on my back.
Caitlin delivered. It was probably one of the most painful massages I've ever had, but it was all worth it. I left feeling like a new woman.
If you're looking for a spa experience, this place isn't for you. But if all you want is a freaken good massage? Then come here.
I don't think I've had a better massage in my life, and I've had plenty. I booked a Saturday afternoon slot with Andy after a particularly trying week, and she drained away the tension and upper-back pain that plagues many of us computer-strapped cubicle rats.
Before starting, Andy warned me that she wouldn't always be attacking the achy places, but planed to wage war on the sources of said pain. That really did make all the difference. As we wrapped up our session, she showed me some simple stretches I could do to prevent the stress from building up.
All in all, it was quite a pleasant experience, though I did spend some time hunting for the entrance to the Phelan Building (the bottom floor is crowded with shops and eateries). While the interior of the Phelan will have you feeling like you're on your way to the doc or dentist, the massage room is just the opposite - warm, cozy, inviting. The True Massage rates aren't the cheapest, so do take advantage of the $20 off offered for the first booking.
Best. Massage. Ever.
I work on the computer all day and suffer from forward head posture which lead to unbelievably tight and sore shoulders and neck. I've been to many masseurs and Caitlin is by far the best. She's got the perfect pressure for me (I like my massages firm) and had some techniques and found some achy spots I didn't even know existed!
I also want to confirm what others have said about True Massage and Wellness:
- the Phelan Building is kinda sterile, but the massage room is cozy and inviting.
- It's also not the cheapest massage, but it's worth every penny.
- At the end of the session, Caitlin made sure I didn't have any questions, then showed me some stretches to help with the tight muscles.
All in all, a blissful experience.
Thank you, thank you, thank you, Mary.
The past 3 weeks have been emotionally and physically straining, to say the least. Having your heart broken will cause you to really not take care of your body, which was vital for me as I prepared for my first marathon. I made an apt. with Mary for this morning, "the morning after" my marathon to motivate me to get through the marathon and to take care of my very sore body.
90 minutes of pure loveliness.
Mary has a very personal approach to her massage therapy. She is incredibly down to earth and very much cares about each client. I told her, in a nutshell, that I've been down lately. She told me, "It's totally okay to cry on the table." From that moment on, I knew I was in the right place.
She really touched on each part of my body that felt strained. I had been having hip spasms since completing the race, and was having trouble walking up and down stairs. She focused on this for a while and I am happy to say that my hip feels much better.
Marathon or not, I plan to come back to Mary. It was a wonderful, positive experience- beyond worth it.
Comment from Mary J. of
True Massage & Wellness
8/13/2009
Aww...thank you, Laura! It was great working with you, and…
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I've been meaning update this. I got my discount (refunded to my credit card).
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/10/2009
I'd give maybe a five for the massage. I had it with Andy and she's great. However, I used a promo… Read more »
Comment from Mary J. of
True Massage & Wellness
11/17/2009
A recent change: you now pay onsite, AFTER your session!…
More »
Great place to go for a quick relaxation, me-time. I'm always impressed at the level of customer service given by Mary. She's absolutely fantastic.
Good prices too help a lot.
I love Yelp. If not for Yelp, I would never have found this place. Terrific massages that are meticulously administered. Small place, and by appt only.
Amazing! Mary is a real healer and a very sweet person. I can barely wait to go again for another massage.
Mary is a goddess sent from heaven who took me to heaven..
Ok, I'll get more serious from here on, but actually I was quite serious about my first sentence as well =P
I had my first professional massage with her. I came in with whore-ish makeup because I just came from a photo shoot. My mascara dirtied her stuffs, but she was very nice about it.
She is very communicative and tries to let you know ahead of time where she will touch so you don't get surprises. She remains silent otherwise (love that!)
The massage felt soooo goood. Yes, it did hurt actually quite a lot when she "untied my knots", which were probably everywhere on my body, but she really knows what she was doing, and I will recommend her to ANYONE.
She also never rushes me, and took her time with me.
the most memorable massage i've ever had was at sunset, on a beach, in thailand. its hard to surpass such an experience, but mary provides some stiff competition!
some of the plusses:
* mary is extremely attentive to her client's needs. she was able to ask plenty of questions, without disrupting my restful state.
* mary is honest. we started a little later, and so she went over a little to make up for that time.
* mary is knowledgeable. she explained many things i was curious about (why hot stones?), or thought i should just know about.
* mary is giving. she donated a gift certificate to my organization's silent auction on the spot!
* mary is convenient. right in the heart of downtown sf, so that even from oakland, it wasn't all that bad.
thanks for the wonderful experience, mary! i hope i can come back and enjoy another massage sometime soon!
Decided on a last minute massage on a Sunday morning thinking that nothing would be available. Low and behold, I found True Massage and Wellness (on Yelp, mind you!) is open and has availability! It was easy to sign up online as well as pay. I came in and Caitlin made me feel very comfortable. She gave me an excellent massage, checking in to make sure it was enough pressure, etc.
I can't tell you enough how much it helped! I felt so much better afterward and highly recommend her! I'll definitely use her in the future as well!
I made an appointment with Mary for a 60-minute therapeutic massage. It was just what I needed after a stressful few days.
Mary is a very skilled masseuse and her style of massage was very effective for really working on the knots in my body. I have lower back issues and she immediately knew from touching my muscles where the weak points were. Not only did she really dig in there and release a lot of tension, but she gave me great suggestions for exercises to strengthen my core and improve my back. She made me feel very comfortable and at one point, I was so relaxed that I dozed off. I pretty much always doze off when getting really great massages.
The room was modest but clean and comfortable. The music was soothing but not too New Age-y. The room was a tad stuffy. Mary asked me at the beginning of the massage how my temperature was and I told her I was a little warm. She made some adjustment to the thermostat that helped.
Comment from Mary J. of
True Massage & Wellness
4/24/2009
Thank you for such a sweet review! We can always open the…
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Unfortunately, I'm a gimp. Well, not a terrible gimp, but I've fallen off a couple of horses a time or two and have had some debilitating lower back spasms. Years ago, my first spasm after trying to lift something dropped me to the floor and I had to go to the ER it was so bad.
Over the years, I've learned what triggers the spasms, what I need if I feel one coming on. I find that my back spasms can build and build until the pain is unbearable and I can barely walk unless I try to cut it off at the pass. Usually that means a number of days stretching my hamstrings and my butt muscles. If I'm lucky, I have a massage scheduled. This time around, I knew it was going to be a bad one. I could feel it cascading and my stretching was only slowing it down a little. So I decided to do a same day massage with Andrea S.
Wow she was great, great, great. She was able to find the exact spots that were knotting up and put just the right amount pressure - it's a knife edge between bearing the deep massage and having the muscle finally release. After the massage I was a little sore from the deep deep work, but the next day it was pretty much gone! I've never had a spasm disappear that fast! Usually it takes a few additional days of stretching to push the muscles to release.
Great great work. I highly recommend both Mary and Andrea S. (I haven't tried any of the other therapists, but if Mary thinks someone is worthy of her practice, I'm sure they are great.)
I echo the sentiments above - Mary ROCKS! She worked my back and shoulders and got those knots on their way out. I will definitely be back soon.
Mary is absolutely fantastic! Hands down the best massages I have ever had - and I have had a lot of massages. I get migraine headaches and have a lot of related knots in my neck and back. Mary can always feel the exact spots that are bothering me and she works those spots like no other! She is able to get deep into the muscles and also targets areas that might be contributing to any pain you are experiencing that you wouldn't necessarily know are problem areas! My body always feels better after a session with Mary. Not only is she fantastic at massage, she is also a wonderful person that really takes the time to talk with her clients to find out about any "trouble spots", etc. She is also an extremely kind and friendly person!
I saw Mary before I was pregnant and recently went to see her for a prenatal massage. I am happy (and not surprised) to report that the prenatal massage was fantastic!
I highly, highly recommend Mary! Go see her - your body will thank you!
I woke up and was in a lot of pain. I didn't do anything the day before to warrant all this pain that I was feeling in my neck and lower back, but still woke up super stiff and achy. So by lunch time, I was convinced that I needed a good massage. I didn't really want to go for the cheap, but powerful sports massage, nor did I want to go for a pampering and super expensive frou frou day spa massage. I just wanted a decently priced, yet really good massage that would take away the pain.
After some searching on Yelp, I think I had found the place. It was 2pm on a Friday afternoon. Would I be able to get an appointment for a massage at 5 or 6pm? I gave True Massage and Wellness a call. 6:15pm appointment was available. I had a 7:30pm dinner to go to nearby. Could i make it? Well, even if I couldn't, I was still going to get my massage! I signed up and waited for 6:15pm to roll around.
Walked into the building. Was a little caught off guard. The massage office is inside an office building. But I told myself, I came here for a good massage, not for the frou frou day spa feel. I found my way to the office and waited in the modest waiting room. 6pm, Andy comes out and invited me in and we get started.
I told her my trouble areas and asked her to skip my legs since they didn't need much attention and because I'm EXTREMELY ticklish on my calves and thighs. She went to work. Sprayed a little flower essence towards my face while I was laying on the table. NICE TOUCH. (So nice I ended up getting a bottle for myself!)
The massage was HEAVENLY. I can't think of any better way to describe it. She worked out exactly the places that needed attention and relieved all of the built up tension in my muscles and neck and my blood started to flow normally again. I would have to say it is in the top 3 best massages of my life and I've had a lot of massages in various countries.
Thanks Andy for such a wonderful massage. I'll definitely be back. And thanks to Mary for such a wonderful booking experience!
I had an awesome massage with Mary, the owner. I had let her know up front that I was pretty ticklish and generally avoided massages since it makes me tense up even more! She listened to my concerns and went over what worked best for me in the past (lots of pressure).
Mary explained the massage would likely be different from what I've had since she works with trigger points and such. She also advised since I was coming down with a cold that I might end up feeling sicker as the toxins were working their way out, aided by the massage. I appreciated the very clear disclaimers and advice. I really felt like i knew what I was getting into. Due to our discussion we were running a bit behind, which I just assumed would cut into the massage time...Nope! Mary asked if I would mind the massage running over a tiny bit. I got a full 60 minutes. That was very thoughtful.
During the massage, Mary was very in tune with what I needed. If she saw me tense up she would quietly/calmly remind me to breathe or to relax my clenched jaw. When she could tell I was sinking into it and enjoying the work on my not-so-ticklish spots she was silent and I listened to the faint music in the background. I really appreciate someone who is that in tune with their customer, anticipating needs. It's such a pain to get a massage or treatment when the person talks or barks at you the whole time. You won't get that from Mary.
Afterward, Mary talked to me about how I would feel, what I liked, and how it would be possible for me to work on my ticklishness...something I would really like to do. If I do get another massage, I am for sure going back to True Massage and to Mary!
Loved the lavender oil and the hot towels on my feet. Also loved that since it's not a full-blown day spa you don't pay spa prices for the service and they have a simple online scheduler so you can pop in, sometimes even same day.
Easy convenient location downtown too!
This was my second trip to True Massage to work with Mary Jenn. I am a new pediatric ICU nurse working the night shift. Needless to say, both the work schedule and my career choice are giving my body a nice beating. One of my goals for 2009 is to focus on self care. So, I happily scheduled another massage with Mary because my first session with her left such a good impression.
True Massage has easy online scheduling available on their website. If you so desire, you can schedule an appointment in the middle of the night or on the same day (but I think you just need to give them an hour's notice). Blocks of time are available from the various massage therapists and you can always find a time that fits into your schedule. You can even add on a delicious scalp massage, hand massage, etc.
One thing I totally love is that you pay up before you even arrive to get the service. No digging through your purse, no worrying about how much to tip, and no running to the ATM. Instead, you are all set to relax and renew when you arrive to get your massage.
The space is beautiful and tranquil. They had moved to the 8th floor since the last time I visited and now have 2 healing studios and a nice waiting area. Mary welcomed me into my appointment and attentively searched for the direction of our 90-minute session. What did I need? How was I feeling? What problems was I having? What areas should she avoid? (Um, avoid? Putting limitations on a massage therapist is beyond my comprehension. For all you people that dislike having your face or ears touched...trust me, if it is good massage therapist...LET THEM! It could be a life changing experience.)
I settled in on the table after explaining that I was having some leg pain and shoulder tightness. I was amazed by how quickly she discovered every inch of me that needed some work...I actually felt like I got an overhaul! My poor legs needed a lot more work than I thought. She used hot stones, accupressure/trigger points, stretching, energy work, and various levels of massage pressure depending on what the area required. She is a true professional. I was so impressed by the attention she paid to my body and her ability to soothe it and bring it back into balance. My session was so individualized and I left feeling great.
If you are looking for a cattle drive day spa experience...this is definitely not the place for you! However, if you want to receive an amazing personalized massage in a great space and leave feeling all shiny and new...then True Massage and Wellness is your spot.
One thing you will find about True Massage and Wellness is that their humility goes a long way. There are lots of businesses (massage and otherwise) that tout their greatness on yelp and their connecting websites, but twhat you will find about TMW is that their understatement is shocking because they are so good. When you come out of a massage you are thinking they should be advertising more/sprouting their peacock feathers/proclaiming it from the rooftops, but they don't. Modesty is a virtue.
Mary gave me a massage and found my trouble spots quickly and worked them out. Great draping and listening to the body and reacting accordingly with her movements. The pressure was never more than I could handle, but it was definitely not a spa massage--tissue and muscle were being worked. I came away very aware of how much stress I had been carrying in my body--in areas that I didn't know you could carry stress and tension.
Great massage experience--coming out of it, I felt empowered with knoweldge about my body AND pretty relaxed.
I had a 60 min massage with mary, and i can honestly say it's the best thing ever! THANK YOU MARY!!!! I suffer from lower back pain since i sprained it awhile back. and lately my back was having muscle spasms. I tried going to the doctor, muscle relaxants, heat/ icey hot therapy.. it was all temporary relief. I finally came in to this massage place and mary did a great job of assessing where my body needed the most attention. The massage was definitely not your average "feel good" gentle relaxing massages, it was deep tissue!. It was therapeutic cause i woke up with no more back pain 2 days later. To me that's priceless. Mary knew her anatomy really well and she knows what she is doing. She gave a lot of great tips on how to exercise my lower back. I highly recommend this place for anyone who suffers from chronic pain.
Loved, loved, loved....my massage with Mary. I am definitely one of those A-type personalities that hold a lot of stress in my neck & shoulders. Mary not only relieved a lot of my pain, she also gave me great advice that actually worked. Apparently, I sleep on my stomach and this causes a lot of neck issues (who knew?) Mary quickly identified this as a possibility to explain all of those knots in my neck. After a little internet research and sleeping on my side for a week, I felt soooo much better. Please note, she is not a doctor, just an amazing massage therapist. I still enjoy the spa experience (i.e. Burke Williams) but when I have to get down to business and relieve some pain. I make an appointment w/ Mary.
for those of you that dont know, im somewhat of a day spa whore. it all started a few years ago when a teacher buddy of mines got a gift certificate to re:fresh day spa (now closed) and i accompanied her and her buddy. turns out i like to be pampered. go figure. over the years, ive tried numerous places throughout northern california....
but i guess i kinda forgot what a massage really can be.
i would say there is a time and place for fancy surrounding, tea, nice robes.... of course there is. people eat this shit up. but after my last massage, from true wellness, i forgot how good a massage could be by itself. you see, true wellness is no day spa by any means. its in a modest, little office space in an office building. reminds me of the medical building on sutter.
while theres a time and place to gather up the ladies and go out on a ladies trip to the spa, cocktails in hand and all, there is also a time and place for true wellness. when you want a no nonsense, straight forward massage service, you book here.
i recently had a session with andrea, and wow. trust me on this when i say the lady knows what shes doing. at first i was a bit thrown off by the bright, small room where the session was going to take place, nt to mention that i got so used to the whole "day spa" experience with steam rooms and showers, but when andrea got to it, i couldnt be happier. but heres where i would distinguish a good massage with an excellent one. perhaps its mental, perhaps its not, but after my session with andrea, not only was i relaxed, but i actualyl FELT BETTER. like there was an actual improvement in my condition. i felt a bit sluggish getting out, of course. then i felt a bit stiff. then my energy level jumped up a few notches. i was breathing better, i was movign around better....
would i return? hell yeah?
will i still do the whole day spa thing? probably... but i think true wellness has to be in the speed dial... well more like bookmarks, because of their online booking system.
I've spent a lot of time searching for a massage therapist that could bring me both relaxation, healing and warmth. i finally found that place. true massage is a special gem in the heart of a bustling chaotic city where you can find peace, quiet + relief.
i had my first massage with Mary this week. my goals for the visit were stress relief, relief from shoulder and neck pain that was causing headaches + migraines and a break from some emotional stress.
the visit satisfied all of that and more. Mary's skill for massage + intuition for pain is something I've never seen before. she used a combination of many different styles including trigger point therapy. i left feeling more relaxed and cared for then i have in a long time. the office is a beautiful balance between relaxation + therapy. it's not a spa with fluffy robes and disposable flip-flops and it's not a sterile doctors office. it's something in between. it's a warm, comfortable space with low lighting and relaxing scents equipped with everything needed to just "fix you".
to make matters even more pain free, they've set up an appointment system that allows clients have 100% control over when and where they book their appointments and how they pay. I took care of setting my appointment on-line a couple days before including payment and never once had to fumble with cash or engage in that awkward interaction of dealing with tips (respectfully).
so, if you need some relief, and you don't need the commercialism that sometimes comes with the spas, give True Massage a whirl. They're prices are extremely competitive and their service is excellent.
I got 60 min massage with Mary. Wow! Wow! Wow! Best therapeutic massage I have ever received. Notice I wrote therapeutic. Not frilly, not relaxing but she worked it! And I loved it!
I couldn't turn my head for several days before my massage. I also was having shooting pains on the right side of my body. I have been in several car accidents - so some trauma to my body. Also, I play alot of sports and do yoga.
Mary was able to pin point triggers in my body that released years of stored pain. It is amazing how she can push with one finger on a small part of your body and find that spot that has been aching for so long.
Highly recommend. Will come back often!
For a mere 5 days I experience excruciating pain in my neck & shoulders. The pain had built up, and well it's what I get for sitting in front of a computer for at least 8-10 hours a day...I mean here I am again sitting on the computer writing this review....
Desperate to be whole again I made an appointment online with Jenny. Luckily as a first time customer it was $20 off, but they often offer discounts all the time (check their website!). $70 (with the $20 off) for a 60 minute massage seemed like a deal to me, but even better she gladly refused my tip! I was impressed...
The office in the Phelan building is pretty small with just one room with one massage bed. Small, but comfy! Upon arriving Jenny did a quick consultation with me in finding out what I prefer or what she should focus on. She never failed to make sure throughout the massage that the pressure was okay and that nothing hurt. I was a wreck, as she was aware I had endless knots. Jenny took into consideration to not over work muscles, made sure I was comfortable, little chit chat here and there, and sent me off with a few tips.
I stayed comfortable throughout the entire massage, and Jenny was very pleasant and welcoming. At last, I left feeling more like a normal human being!
Happily I added "Massages" to my long list of addictions.
I recently had a massage with Mary. It was amazing! She really took her time in the beginning to get to know me and what was bothering me (my back). Then, she proceeded to give me an amazing massage! It was suppose to be 60 mins, but when I came out of her office and looked at my phone, I realized that the massage was at least 20 mins longer than that! I definately felt more relaxed that day and then in the next couple of days my back pain almost went away! I will be definately coming back to see Mary again! I just wish you could use the $20 off coupon more than once though :).
This place is great, fabulous, two thumbs up...
I first saw Mary when she was set up in SOMA and now that her office is right on Market, I have been coming more often. I think I have had at least one massage with everyone who has worked here and I have always left feeling extremely relaxed. For the record, even though I'm very petite, I've had many a masseuse not only make me feel bad about my brick-like shoulders, but also leave me in more pain than when I came in. That is not the case here.
Everyone I've seen here has taken their time to work out all the stubborn knots in a way that relaxes the body instead of making it hurt. After your massage there is a small consultation to let you know what stretches or tools you can use to stay relaxed which I have found very helpful. There is a good book online tool if you go to their website and usually some kind of deal if you are strapped for cash but in need of therapy.
And for those that are scared of getting a massage...I bought my very fearful boyfriend a certificate and finally got him to go. He had a bad back accident years back and didn't want anyone to touch him, but he went to Mary and left wondering why he had never gotten a massage before. I could go on for a while, but suffice it to say this place is great, the people are great, and I hope True Wellness is around for a long time because I sure had to kiss a lot of frogs before I found the "prince" of massage.
I love Mary! I just met her for the first time today and she was so cool! She really took the time to find out where all my achy spots were and she gave an awesome massage. I've been to more than my fair shares of spas and gotten lots of massages before, and hers has to be one of the top 3 I have ever had. You can tell she really loves her job and enjoys connecting with people. She really cares about who you are and helping you in whatever way she can. I can't say enough good things about this place. I will definitely be referring her to all of my friends and I'm definitely coming back!
Andy = AWESOME!
This is definitely a no frills place, but if you're looking for a great massage, I would recommend True Massage & Wellness.
I am moving to Europe. The last few weeks were rather stressful, planning the move, finding a place to live 9 time zones away, finishing off things at work, etc. etc. My back has quite a history, including surgery around 6 years ago. And stress is always a handsome trigger for back pain.
Last Friday I took all my stuff, in boxes, to the shipping company. Next time I'm hiring professional movers. Anyway, the people at U-Haul, total airheads, rude and unhelpful people, neglected to put the dolly in the van that I rented. Sure, I should have checked before setting off, but it's not like I didn't have enough things on my mind. So I end up having to carry all of my boxes without the help of a dolly.
By the end of Friday my back was feeling 70 years old.
But, lucky guy that I am, I got Mary to give me a massage on Saturday.
I don't know how she does it, but that one session took 35 years off my back. Really. And she didn't just fix my back, but she also tackled my shoulders, tight and painful from sitting behind a computer for 8 or 12 hours a day during, I don't know, approximately... all my life.
Mary's massage is not for sissies. This is not recreational, it's therapy. She finds knots (trigger points) and massages them out. I don't know how she finds the knots, she seems to instinctively know where they are. Massaging a knot hurts, don't kid yourself. But afterwards it relieves your pain immensely. It makes you feel young again!
Also, Mary is a wonderful, compassionate and caring person. I cannot recommend anyone more highly.
I would like to thank Caitlin for the wonderful massage. The place is nice, quiet, and clean. What else can you ask for? Go try it for yourself, you won't be disappointed.
awesome awesome AWESOME massage! thanks to fellow yelper jill k for the referral. and special thanks to caitlin for the incredible and much needed massage. and of course thanks to mary k. for a very pleasant booking experience.
i will definitely be back!!!
Paraphrasing from Mr. T...I pity the fool...that has to massage me. I mean, I have these gargantuan knots in my neck and shoulders from all the sitting at a computer I do for my job. I also am extremely ticklish on my back and tend to jump about a foot off the massage table when someone touches me gently. That's right, y'all. I like it rough. And hard. And I'm talking about a MASSAGE, you dirty birdies.
So, when I went to see Mereb at True Massage, I was a little nervous - most masseuses don't know how to deal with me. I explained to him my needs - deep massage on my neck, back, and shoulders - skip the rest of the body because the rest of me is doing ok...and that he has to start with a strong touch or I'll spaz out (unintentionally). He listened to my every word, and was very pleasant and friendly, but not chatty (thank God), and he checked to make sure he was using the right amount of pressure.
I got exactly what I wanted - a massage toeing the line between pleasurable and painful - with specific concentration on these crazy knots I have near my shoulder blades and on my trapezius muscles (I took Kinesiology as part of my BA program, aight?). He also did a little cranio-sacral action (you may have to look that one up).
It was fantastic, and the reason I know it was working was because I was having a hard time staying awake. I could feel my spine loosening and lengthening as the hour passed, and by the end, my neck and shoulders felt like buttah.
I will hopefully be back very very soon.
I, personally, didn't get the massage but I accompanied my BF to this anticipated session. I'll try and keep this short and informative:
The place is located on Market Street between the Starbucks and the Virgin store, across from Coffee Bean & Tea. It's in an office building on the 10th floor among hypnotherapists, lawyers, and hair salons. (Yeah, my first impression was...am I in the right building?) Mary sent me an email stating instructions on when I arrived but I didn't read clearly that it said "enter only if the door is open"...and I accidentally barged in while she was working on another client! oops!
The transformation in mood/hollistic health of my BF was a complete 180 from beginning to end. He had just finished another 9 hr. day of work and it was a Friday...his voice was groggy and his eye lids heavy. When I came by an hour later, his voice was serene and he had a dreamy look on his face. In the beginning of the session, Mary discussed with him where his problem areas were and he basically said "everywhere.." So, she worked on every kink and sore in the customized 1-hr session from head to toe (which I got $20 off for being a new client!!) and he said it was a complete healing massage.
Considering we've only done the massages at the mall (OUCH...don't go to those...they hurt...) he can't confirm it's the best place for a massage BUT it was definately worth it. He's been thanking me nonstop for a week now. :P We'll try different places just to compare it to Mary's session bt it'll be hard to beat.
Mary also recommended a ton of books and websites on trigger points and diet as well as answered any questions we had...(one too many...I got 99 problems but a bitch ain't one!!) Extremely helpful and knowledgeable...she really takes care of her clients. She also mentioned by November, they would be expanding into a bigger office with an actual waiting room and several massage rooms. That'll be exciting.
Highly recommend. Minus one star because we don't know yet whether this is the best place because we lack experience. :) I'll update once we've tried different places and can confirm. wow, this was long :( (that's what she said..)
I relocated cross-country only to have my one-and-only break up with me in the middle of the first semester of law school, weeks before a big milestone birthday. As you can imagine, I've had a lot of stress. I needed a massage.
I saw Mary, who, during our consultation, said her technique is more accupressure-oriented than typical Swedish massage. I was a little hesitant about staying because I didn't want anything aggravating my chronic back problem. But I figured, hey, I'm here, I'll try it. So glad I did.
I don't like frou-frou, light-touch massages like at the fancy spas. Mary is not like that at all. Her touch is firm, but not too aggressive. She loosened my shoulders and my neck with her pressure-point technique. She also incorporated some broad strokes on my back and it felt great. Best part of all was the heated massage table! By the end, I was warm and relaxed. I was not sore at all the next day, and the effects of the massage lasted throughout the week. For what you get, the price is very reasonable. I'll definitely return!
