I was referred to Ann by a friend who had really bad sciatica. After one session with Ann he was pain free and she gave him some exercises to help prevent future problems I've been seeing Ann ever since. I have balance issues which cause muscle tension. Doing body work with Ann has helped me enormously. I joke with family that the only reason I'm able to move is from working with Ann. Chronic pain .... Or a tune up. Ann is the best! read more

Ann really knows what she's doing! She understands bodies, is intuitive, smart, caring and loving. Her stretching and posture classes are outstanding. I would recommend her work anytime. Regards, Laurie Harper read more

I am so disappointed with my massage with Ann. It started when I let her know on the phone that I have severe back pain. When I arrived I was shocked to find that I had to climb 2 flights of stairs to get to her place. I almost didn't make it. I lay face down with a mask on and she talked the whole time! I was here to relax and she asked me questions which I struggled to answer with a mask on in the face cradle. The questions were personal and had nothing to do with my massage. Clearly she has boundary issues. I felt unsafe. I will not go back. It was my first time there. I have been to many massage therapists as I have relocated a few times. This was the worst experience. read more

I have a chronic illness that frequent migraines, as well as intractable joint pain and muscle pain. I've had the illness for 7 years and I've seen more than my share of healers, doctors, massage therapists, chiropractors, physical therapists, acupuncturists, and everything in between. Recently, my pain has been so bad that I have been going for massage about once a week. I had resigned myself to bodywork being a purely palliative experience. I just needed some comfort in the midst of all the pain and no one had been able to provide me more than a few hours' relief. I wouldn't describe myself as a cynic. In fact, I work pretty hard each day not to fall into cynicism. But I definitely walked in to see Ann with low expectations. Like I said, I had kind of abandoned the idea that massage could be curative and instead just practice appreciating it for the consolation and comfort it provides. I am so grateful to say that this was the first bodywork session I've had in years that actually gave me REAL relief from the body pain. I went in to see Ann with a brutal migraine. I had already taken my prescription migraine meds by the time I showed up at her place but hadn't gotten any relief. The arthritis in my back and hips was excruciating. I was greeted by Ann's sweet puppy dog while she finished up her last appointment. Since it was my first appointment, we started with some medical history. Ann was patient, kind and thoughtful as we went through the intake process. Together, we looked at some essential oils that would help with autoimmune conditions. Ann encouraged me to participate actively in the process and assured me that I would be setting the tone of the session and our time together. This is always so comforting to me because it lines up with my direct experience of body pain and chronic illness; there's no treatment that can be administered to heal me unless I'm an active participant in the process. Essentially, I felt like she was reminding me that my body has the power to heal itself and just needs a little encouragement. On a personal note, when I reach low points with this illness, I often think about "god" as the human body's capacity for healing and recovery. I guess maybe that makes Ann an angel? (Wow, I went there, you guys.) After the intake process, Ann took me through to her massage space. It was quiet and comfortable. We started with the oils, which she rubbed all over my spine. They smelled amazing and went to work soaking into my hurty body. We talked a little for the first part of the treatment and I discovered that not only is Ann an angel (yup, I'm sticking with it), but also a botanist, puppy lover, total badass, and entrepreneur. We laughed a bunch and got to know each other. She's super easy to talk to and we just jumped right into the While we talked, I was facedown and Ann worked on my back, then legs and arms. When Ann had me turn over, things got a little blurry. I just let go into the experience and enjoyed every relaxing, drowsy moment. I can say it included some expert chiropractic-style adjustments, assisted stretching, and a percussive instrument. But beyond that, all I can say is that it was pure bliss, deep relief and complete relaxation in a way that I have not experienced in years. I left without a migraine and no pain in my joints, which for me is a f*cking miracle!!! Ann, thank you so much. Your touch is beyond intuitive and I am so grateful for the relief and healing I experienced in our session. I can't wait to see you again! When I asked Ann about her rate (which is a very reasonable $110/hr), she joked that she charges $3,000/ session. Now I'm like, "I would seriously consider paying that..." Ann, THANK YOU! Beyond the relief I experienced in our session, I am so grateful to have hope! It makes such a difference in every part of my life. read more

Back to Life Wellness Center by Ann Moore was the perfect place for both my friend and myself for a Saturday afternoon massage. It was a treat for my friend, who deserves to be treated special and loved. It was a treat to myself to make someone happy, and a treat to my own journey in loving myself. read more

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Ann is not just a massage therapist - FAR from it. She is also a posture expert. This means that she teachers you how to take care of yourself in addition to helping you feel better in the moment. I have scoliosis and one leg is shorter than the other. In addition, I carry all my stress in my neck, shoulders, and jaw. So I am always looking for ways to feel better. With most massage therapists, I feel better for about an hour and then my body goes right back into its old patterns. Ann, however, takes things to a different level. She teaches me to stretch so that I can keep the benefits for much longer than that time period. I have stretches she's taught me to do that, if I actually DO them, make me feel better for weeks. She also stretches me while she's working on my body. By putting my body into different stretches, she can massage me more effectively. It doesn't hurt but it reaches down deeper and really gets the knots and tension. Ann uses a combination of vibration, heat, hands, stretching, posture work, and more. She has helped get rid of my massive tension headaches from TMJ pain. In short, go see her! And go to her classes and learn to help yourself! read more

Ann is wonderful and her massage work is incredible. I experience chronic neck and upper back pain. After seeking treatment from Ann, I've noticed significant improvements in my posture and my pain has subsided. Great technique and highly recommend! read more

I've had every type of massage--spa massage,15-minute office chair massage, structural integration, tui-na, chiropractic, and even an overly oily massage in Berlin for which the therapist placed a bowl of plastic rocks and butterflies on the floor for me to stare at through the headrest. Needless to say, when it comes to massage I have been there, done that. But then I went to Ann. First, her adorable doggie greeted me at the stairs, so I was already feeling quite welcome. But Ann herself is so warm, so confident, that she made it very easy to just relax and let her take over. I have some fairly serious issues with a herniated disc in my neck and related nerve pain and I have been worked on by all sorts of practitioners in the last 9 months since my diagnosis. I must say that Ann picked up on all of the issues that I've been hearing about from everyone else, but found an additional area that really has never received attention until she worked on it. She also prescribed one exercise to help me get back into balance and after just a couple of days of doing it, I feel remarkably better. Ann is not just a massage therapist, her knowledge of the body and its mechanics is better than what I've witnessed from physical therapists and even medical doctors. I am so glad to have found her, right here in Alameda no less. I scheduled my second appointment right after finishing my first and I can't wait to go back! read more

If I could add an extra star here, I certainly would. The ladies at this wonderful center really stand true to the name of the place: "BACK TO LIFE WELLNESS", indeed! First of all, proprietor and amazing massage and reposturing therapist Ann Moore has the gift of the gods with her strong hands and focus on you. She listens to where you have aches and pains and and rather than just concentrating on those spots, reminds you as she works her physical healing magic that everything is connected in your body. I have been there on several occasions for minor aches and general well-being work, but one time I desperately needed her to fix a problem with my right shoulder and arm that had been aching horribly for over a month. Nothing I was trying had worked and I was in constant pain. Ann spent 90-minutes on me, showed me several exercises to do and how I should change my computing habits and Voila! I have NOT felt an ache since and I have a daily regimen I follow and show everyone I know who spends copious amounts of time in front of a computer for their work. You must see Ann today! As for the other wonderous beings who hold shop there? Lucy Becerra is a marvelous esthetician, Denise Cicuto - acupuncturist is amazing, and Beth Murray is a talented homeopath. Let these women help you to make your being a better place to live in. read more

"thank you so much honey, she gave me the best massage I have ever had and did techniques I never had done before. She is a real professional and was very cool" That was the quote my wife gave me after I booked Anne for our 1 year anniversary - my wife is also 9 months preggers! So yes, she gave her a great massage on her side while pregnant and my wife was ultra-comfortable. Thanks Anne! read more

This review is for Ann's Re-posture and Revitalize class at Mariner Square Athletic Club. In the past few years I've really begun to focus on wellness as opposed to just exercise, I guess that happens as we grow up, mature and get injured on a regular basis. :) One day I stumbled across the flier for Ann's "Re-posture and Revitalize" class. The cost is $10 for member's and I believe $25 for non-members. Honestly it is worth $25 dollars; TOTALLY WORTH IT. I've attended 4 classes thus far; after every class I've walked out loose and feeling like I'm 2 inches taller- no slouching! Every time I hit the treadmill after class I've had an amazing run! It's not just me- my bf agrees that he notices a positive change in his workouts immediately following class. Each class has been intimate (3-6 people;) ranging from members of all ages and backgrounds. As a newbie -Ann will take a few moments to get to know you and understand your personal ailments/concerns. All the classes I've gone to have been different, focusing on the full body or on certain regions of the body depending on the need of the greater group. She compiles a series of stretches you can do at home on your own and will teach you stretches catered to your individual needs. This isn't a monkey see, monkey do kind of class. Ann demonstrates and then works w individuals for necessary modifications based on their own needs. She is hands on, correcting form and continuously educating us on how/why we are performing each stretch and it's positive effect on the body and overall posture. As someone who works a lot and regularly runs and workouts; I feel this class really keeps me in check! PS: I've also had a couple of massages from Ann, she is THE BEST but I won't rave about it because her appointment schedule is tough enough as it is. read more

And is an amazing practitioner. I have been lucky enough to take classes with her and she is extremely knowledgeable about posture.

This is a review from early February of this year. I just moved to Alameda from the city and needed to find someone new. I live on Taylor @ Webster and walked by Back to Life. This is literally a block from me. I got home and looked them up right away. I was super stoked that it came up #1 on Yelp. I booked an appt. with Ann and she didn't disappoint. I've been getting massages for 15 years. At least once a month. I was in a pretty bad car accident and have had injuries racing BMX bikes for a number of years. The experience went outside the box! Ann greeted me at the door and couldn't have been nicer. She's a true people person and generally cares about your well being. She performed various techniques that were exactly what I was looking for. My body needs deep tissue and stretching. She hit all the spots and was a true pro! Don't look anywhere else. Kudos to Ann! Cheers! read more

Js had my first ever deep tissue massage with Nick. Didn't know what to expect. He was great. Very patient with all my questions and concerns. Felt totally at ease. After the session, felt so relaxed. Thanks Nick for getting some of crazy knots. You rock. read more

She sure can talk. After 20 min I still don't know what it cost or what I will get for my money. How long would she drone on if I didn't shut her down. read more

I come here for acupuncture with Denise Cicuto and let me tell you, she is awesome. Not only has she helped me with a variety of issues (back pain, skin disorder and endometriosis) she also gets me so relaxed I go into a trance/hypnotic state every time I visit - which is such a treat in todays stressful world. Her bed side manner is both warm and professional and I really wish I could see her every week. Alameda is lucky to have her practicing here. read more

I got a gift certificate as a Christmas gift, and the massage was one of the best I have had. While I use to have more back issues from lots of computer work, hockey and a few extra pounds, she really did note some issues with my shoulders and really did a good job of working on them and explaining the shoulder stiffness. The booking of the appointment is the reason for the 4-star review. I left several messages, both pre and post vacation and it seemed forever to get an appointment nailed down. It's a really convenient location in Alameda, and she is a very pleasant person. read more

Okay, I will admit - I am not the client here, but my wife is. However, she RAVES about the treatment she gets here. She uses Ann Moore as her massage therapist; now, my wife has gotten massages at places all over the world. She still rates Ann as one of the, if not the, best. For facials, she uses (I think) Lucy and again, RAVES about her. Its a shame no one has Yelped about this place yet, so I am hoping to start a trend. I am sure the other therapists are just as good, so I don't mean to pick out certain ones, but those are the ones my wife uses, so I can only actually rate them. Oh, and if you buy a "package" deal, you can get a discount on the massages read more

I was recently treated to a massage here and while my Gifter raved about Ann, I was a little skeptical. That soon changed. The massage room was clean without feeling sterile and Ann had turned the heating pad on, so the massage table was all cozy when I lay down. I am incredibly ticklish, but I didn't once feel squirmy because she gave consistent firm pressure. None of that fufu back rub stuff. It was great! She clearly knew where to apply more or less pressure and helped to stretch some of my more problematic areas. If you go, request her to do some reposturing. She's some kind of expert at it. I have to remember to thank my Gifter again for this awesome massage! read more

I've known Anne for years and was happy to reconnect with her again and get a massage. Anne's personalized touch and creative use of a mix of massage/stretch styles is great! She's open to feedback and listens to your suggestions/comments during the massage. I can't wait to go again! read more

Ann has the perfect combination of body work,posture and massage incorporated into what she can do for you! And don't forget all the stretches she knows. She is very "down to earth" and helps your whole body loosen up and stretch just the way you need. She incorporates hot stones if your body needs any heat at no extra charge. He office is conveniently located in alameda with easy street parking. I've been going to her for about a year. And totally recommend her to yelp plus my friends and family! Keep a open mind and give ann a try! read more

I drive all the way from Brisbane just to see Denise Cicuto. She's a deeply compassionate, talented healer who actually listens to her patients and designs a comprehensive program to deal with your issues. In the past few months I've started feeling so much better, sleeping better, etc thanks to her. I cant recommend her enough. read more

Thanks Yelpers! I found Anne through the reviews on this site and I can surely confirm that she is a super talented healer. she really knows here stuff I got a really awesome massage. Not to mention her dog Rusty is adorable! Thanks Anne I will be back! read more

Poor posture does affect our ability to breathe. Breath is life! Ann Moore is incredibly knowledgeable about the way our muscles and tissue connect and support our entire body, but she is also compassionate. That was important to me as I have been a 'desk jockey' for the better part of my career, and could feel that my posture was getting much worse over time ( upper back, shoulders, neck). This affected my energy levels, sleep, general well being After my first 90 minute posture/stretch class at Back to Life, I had so much energy I stayed up until nearly Midnight - I have not done that in years! Thank you Ann, I will see you next week, and the next week.... read more

I've been going to Anne for almost a year now. I had made a promise to myself that when I was pregnant with my 2nd child, I would most definitely treat myself to bimonthly massages. When I first showed up, I found Anne to be very professional and extremely attentive to my poor body aches. As my pregnancy progressed, I seriously looked forward to my time on her table. I am happy to say that with Anne's help I had a very easy pregnancy, and a smooth recovery. I am still seeing her, although not as often as I was before I had my baby, and I still look forward to her massages. Anne is very knowledgeable and extremely open to giving you the best massage experience you want. She is very flexible with your time, especially since I prefer the early morning appointments on her weekends. read more

Amazing find, tucked away on a busy street, overlooking the hustle bustle on a particularly charming intersection on Alameda's historic Webster Street. Ann is incredibly friendly and and even more incredibly talented. She sees what you need and provides a custom solution. Just a soothing experience all around, start to finish. I'll be coming back. read more

Wow! Felt all the tightness melt away. Did someone say miracle worker? Ann really knows her stuff. Not only did she give a great massage, but she educates you on what may cause some of the problems and offers suggestions. The combination of stretching, stone and deep tissue work really blasted away the tightness. read more

Short & Sweet review: Ann Moore changed my life. When I went to see her I was dealing with chronic head/neck/back pain, migraines, workout soreness, weird tweeks and posture issues. I saw her regularly for over a year, and I've moved and it SUCKS without her. However, I now have the tools to help myself feel better and have discovered the gold standard for bodywork. . When in doubt, GO TO BACK TO LIFE WELLNESS! Long & Sweet review: The energy you receive from someone doing your massage/bodywork is equally as important as the work itself. This is not a passive experience. She'll give you what you need in terms of massage and give you things you didn't know you needed (but now can't live without) through breathing and stretching. Ann is very interactive about your specific needs and ways to combat chronic pain, prevent pain and correct posture (which isn't, incidentally, just "sitting up straight"). She is highly knowledgeable about the body's muscles and tissues and how our everyday activities affect them, e.g. carrying things, sitting at a desk, working out, standing, walking, etc. She helped me make sense of why I have pain in certain places, rather than just silently massaging and then sending me on my way. Her Posturist training really blew my mind, as I attended a posture class and learned some effective ways to stretch and move to help combat hunched shoulders and other alignment issues. Ann relays all this information with compassion and humor, and really invests herself in your healing process. Even if you just need a one-time pick me up massage, this is your place. I'll have to do a lot of searching before I find someone who can come close to comparing to Ann. My gratitude knows no bounds, thank you Ann and give Rusty a belly rub for me! read more

Ann is amazing. A literal miracle worker. I met her about a year ago and had excruciating pain in my shoulder she made it so much better that day and continued to work with me until it was completely relieved. read more

I've now been seeing Ann to relieve my aches and pains for over 23 years. She continues to amaze me with her understanding of the human body, her dedication to body health, and her expertise. I trust her implicitly, and in fact, I now bring my teenagers to her with their athletic aches and pains. Her work with my son's Sever's Disease (caused by growing too fast) produced immediate relief. My daughter exits her office noticeably straighter and taller. I love this woman (and her dog)! read more

I've had my share of massages, and most of them I have enjoyed. Ann's massages are more of a therapy than a massage since she is really an expert at zoning into the areas that need the most work. I appreciate her focused approach as well as the way she is able to make me more aware of my posture, and the things I can do to help my body. read more

I attended her interactive lecture on posture and got immediate results with the easy to follow exercises. After stretching my shoulders back with the rope she provided, I felt taller and it was easier to breath. Also with the side stretch using the chair, my leg muscles turned outward and I felt my posture pop up! If that is an example of how I can reclaim my posture then I'm ready for her service to help me maintain great posture! read more

I moved here from New York and was fortunate to find the best massage therapist in Ann Moore. Her expert techniques and knowledge in deep tissue massage and stretching have helped me tremendously. I have found both a good therapist and friend in Ann and plan to tell everyone to make an appointment to see her. read more

I highly recommend Ann Moore and her therapeutic massage techniques. One day I couldn't get up from a sitting position without hurting or being stiff. This lower back issue persisted and I thought it must have to do with my posture while I am at my desk. I liked Ann's approach in that she is really trying to stretch you out and teach you the tools you need to stretch your body where it needs it most. If you're willing to commit to back health, and let Ann help you stretch it out, then it is really amazing!!! It was exactly what I needed, and also good to come back from it not only feeling better, but having the tools to do useful stretches to maintain back health and better posture. read more

I love this find! Ann Moore treated my traveling body (flew in from 3,000 miles away). She discussed in depth what was ailing me then went to work. Stretched me out all over the place and opened me right up. Brilliant observations and knowledge of body works. Really do wish I lived here but as my three grand daughters are here I will be back, more often perhaps now that I've met her business. Thank you Ann! read more

Anne came to our workplace and offered a workshop on Reposturing Dynamics focusing on energy and vitality today. Our entire preschool staff loved this workshop! Our staff is focusing this year on wellness; and we are looking forward to putting what Anne taught us today into practice as we work with the children and families we serve. Thanks, Anne! (and Rusty the dog too!) read more

Tyson Parker is the best massage therapist EVER! I met him as he was doing chair massages at the Wes Café across the street from his studio on Webster street. It had been about a year since I had a massage and the experience was fantastic. He has great energy and I HIGHLY recommend him. read more

Denise Is an amazing acupuncturist. SICK: I woke up Monday morning with a sore throat and that foggy head sick feeling. I called Denise and she was able to squeeze me in that morning. She is a miracle worker, immediately after the acupuncture I no longer had that foggy sick feeling and by the end of the day was in perfect health- I was amazed. Without Denise I'd have wasted my week coughing and sneezing. Forget the Whole Foods medicine aisle, call Denise. PAIN: I have also gone to her for chronic knee problems that prevented me from going to the gym - I am now exercising regularly. STRESS - I hate needles so the idea that acupuncture can help with stress seems counter intuitive but I went in a mess and walked out calm - if you had seen me pre treatment this would absolutely shock you. Denise consistently goes out of her way to support me and I am so grateful to have found her. read more

Ann Moore is one of the best massage therapists I've ever seen. I agree with one of the reviewers that she has SO much knowledge about the body. I've often said that I don't like massages that are nice and gentle and make me fall asleep. The massages I've had from Ann are not like that. It makes you get involved with the massage - you don't just lie back and let her rub you. Her massage technique - reposturing - is very different than what I'm used to. I highly recommend her. read more

I've known Ann for many years. Had post race massage some 25 years ago. And now a little older, she has straightened me up again. I will be spending more time in her office. Ann is a fabulous bodyworker and has my highest recommendation. She is just the best. read more