Thank god for living social deals so that I can discover amazing spots in this city. I went in yesterday for a 60 min botanical facial and 30 swed-thai massage with Bokhara Gordon. This girl has magic hands. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of that 90 minute treatment and was praying the whole time for the clock to slow down so I could spend more time enjoying. It was literally a mind blowing experience. I had a rough day at work and was looking for a good de-stresser, and boy oh boy did I find it. I was so relaxed when leaving that I literally could not wipe the calm smile off my face. Bokhara made me feel right at home, pampered, and tailored her service to my specific needs. It was so personal and perfect. Bokhara has definitely raised the bar in terms of spa treatments. I firmly believe I'd be hard pressed to find a better masseuse/esthetician in this city. At $155 regular price it will probably be a while before I'm back, but I know it's worth every penny so I'm gonna start saving now! and/or meet a hot rich man. Because I need more Bokhara in my life!!! You are so blessed with skill, patience, and personality, keep up the great work! read more

I too, like the other reviewer received a 30 minute massage and one hour facial as part of a promotion. I received this package as a gift, so was very curious about this spa that I had not run across in previous searches for treatments, etc., and excited to finally get some relaxation while the baby was at daycare. I completely agree that Bokhara was nothing short of amazing. I was immediately made to feel at ease after rushing over, out of breath and frazzled. I was offered tea and time to catch my breath, instead of being hurried along. Bokhara was very interested on learning how she could make this a relaxing and pleasant experience for me. I was impressed with her skill and technique, and basically the entire treatment. I have to admit I'm a product- junkie, and the products used in the treatments felt great and smelled even better. My special skin concerns were adressed and, like the other reviewer, was offered a "treatment plan" that I could follow at some point. I purchased a product although no products were ever pushed on me. In fact, Bokhara even suggested I could buy them online, however I will purchase them from the spa in the future if needed. All-in-all, what a nice experience this was, and will be sure to come back. my skin looks and feels great! read more

I love Embody Zen! Most importantly, Bokhara is incredibly talented. I've been going to her for massages for almost 10 years now because it's more than just an **awesomely** relaxing feelgood massage-- it's also really healing for the aches and stiffness I get from my desk job. I swear, I have so much more mobility in my neck after one of Bokhara's treatments it's amazing. I've also started getting facials from her recently and I looooove the products she uses. This is the first time I feel like I've really got a handle on my skincare routine, thanks to her. As for the studio, it's calm and relaxing and she's always got some yummy infused water and good music going. She's kind and personable and makes the whole thing very comfortable. I am so glad I found her!!! read more

Topic: Sugaring I had never heard of this technique till my sister, who lives in Seattle, was swearing by it -- that it's much less painful than waxing and your hair grows back less. I was skeptical, but the esthetician, Bokhara, was absolutely wonderful. She explained the whole process to me, not to mention accommodated my crazy schedule that day that kept changing every ten minutes. Except for the fact that it's so expensive, I would love to go back repeatedly. She should offer better packages for people who will come back repeatedly. I do think that it's a worthwhile investment for prevention of hair growth, and much better than laser hair removal, etc. While less painful on the body, it just needs to be less painful on the pocket!! read more

Sugar? Yes, sugar. At least that's what I'm told it's made from; I haven't tasted it. But for hair removal it's been great. No hot mess like with waxing, and when the hair comes back it's thinner every time. Bokhara is very professional, fast, and does excellent work. Highly recommended! read more

I've been seeing Bokhara for sugaring hair removal for two years now, and I just love her. She is so professional and does excellent work, with great attention to detail and an eye for balance. She is also really knowledgable about natural skincare and can offer advice for skin situations that I have. I trust her recommendations like no one else. I always enjoy talking with her - she is a great conversationalist, caring, and a really interesting and authentic person. I feel so lucky to know her and this review is certainly long overdue, but it is also nice to be able to say that I have been consistently happy with her work for this long! :) read more

The. Best. I was worried when moving back to SF from Oakland that I would have a hard time finding my spots for all sorts of things. I needn't have worried. Bokhara has my hair removal needs down. Her space is super cozy and clean. She is absolutely lovely. And delivers the most painless sugaring I've ever had. And I totally appreciate her perfectionist attitude. Glad to have found my new spot! read more

I have been going to Bokhara for so long, I can't even remember exactly how I found her...maybe a deal coupon somewhere. I see Bokhara monthly for either the botanical facial or the botanical facial with the 30 minute massage add on, and sometimes the sugaring, which I like a lot better than waxing. Here is why I go to her: 1. Incorporates massage/stress relief as part of the facial. Every minute you are with her, you are getting some sort of treatment. 2. The massage is incredible. She does these trigger point head/face massage that feels amazing - I clinch my jaw a lot, and whatever she does works! 3. Sugaring is less painful for waxing for the you know where! 4. Bokhara is just a really great person. Going to her makes me feel like I am supporting a friend (I have never felt this way about any other massage therapist, aesthetician, hair stylist, etc). read more

I currently live in Hawaii and had the opportunity to experience the luxury of being treated by Bokhara at her Embody Zen home spa location while in SF recently. I received a back facial, a hydrating facial and lip sugaring as a birthday gift. She has a gentle touch, calming presence, and professional, clean atmosphere. Her spa experience is one of the few things that make me wish I still lived in the Bay Area. Her small soft hands are delicate and have just the right pressure, the home environment lends itself to a more personally tailored experience. She made me feel very comfortable. I walked in feeling like I had Alligator skin and left feeling like my skin was soft, healthy, hydrated and glowing. Even though she treated my skin afterwards, I did get a couple small red bumps on my lip, but they went away quickly and the noticeably reduced hair regrowth made me want to have my legs, bikini and underarms done too!! I will book another treatment with her next time I am in the area. read more

Sugaring. So worth it. Worth the wait to find. Worth the extra cash. No too hot wax. No cloth strips. No fear of double dipped sticks. Way more green. Way less pain. Super warm and cozy room and Bokhara's darling. Parking right in front? Too easy. read more

I came to discover Embody Zen through an e-commerce promotion... the deal was for a 60 minute facial and 30 min swed-thai massage. Typically, I purchase these things with high hopes of a great treatment, but moreover looking to enjoy a little R&R on a dime. My experience with Bokhara at Embody Zen was so mind-blowing, it has now raised the bar entirely! I will certainly be back, knowing it is worth evey penny. Bokhara was both masseuse and esthetician. How one could be so masterful at both is beyond me. She approached my treatment with just the right amount of care, and a profound tone of understanding. Ifeel that too often, spa professionals forget to inquire why you have chosen to have a spa treatment, and focus entirely on what they can fix... so that they can sell you something afterwards. Bokhara was certain to pinpoint my most specific ailments, but was very astute in realizing that I had indulged in a spa treatment mostly for relaxation. After inquiring, she targeted my intensely tight back, neck, and shoulders with a uniquely skillful and fluid system. In other words, she transformed my tension into puddy, The facial that followed was equally customized and delightfully soothing. I was especially impressed once again with how thorough and communicative Bokhara was in customizing a treatment, and making it as enjoyable as one could possibly fathom. She continued to mold my sore muscles into heaps of well-moisturized bliss while each peel or mask set in. She inquired about my current routine, and gently imparted recommendations. Finally, she left me with a piece of paper on which she had inscribed a recommendation for me to- bestill my breath- research later. How refreshing to complete a relaxing and rejuvenating experience with a professional recommendation, as opposed to a sales pitch! I have since gone online and bought the item she recommended I "research" and one additonal one from the website. Stay tuned! read more

I LOVE Embody Zen! Bokhara is a not only a thoughtful and caring individual but she is also a sugaring expert. I go to her for a monthly bikini sugar service and I am definitely loyal to her. Upon entry she immediately goes above and beyond to make you feel comfortable. During the service uses the best products and is extremely detail orientated. After years of waxing that left my skin covered in scar tissue Bokhara has helped me change my hair removal routine with noticeable positive results! read more

If I had once sentence to describe my experience, it would be that Bokhara is amazing. Let's face it, there's nothing really 'enjoyable' about the hair removal process (sugaring or waxing), however honestly, Bokhara made it enjoyable. She is a wonderful woman who truly cares about you and understands the needs of your body. She provides a holistic approach to meeting your needs. From the moment you enter the place, your experience is about YOU. Bokhara is easy to talk to and really makes you feel comfortable, no matter what you are sugaring. The sugaring process itself is a lot less painful than waxing. And after 1.5 years of sugaring, I've noticed a lot less growth. A LOT LESS! And alongside less growth, also a lot less ingrown hairs. That said, it is still an art in removing hair. I've gotten sugaring in Chicago before and it was painful and led to ingrown hairs again. Bokhara has a natural skill in making you feel as comfortable as possible and making the removal as painless as possible. Also, Bokhara also offered a lot of 'at home' remedies for things like body scrubs and face masks using natural products--something that is very important to me. She is very knowledgable about her field and offers any advice. It's really worth the little extra you would pay to have an experience that truly stands out. I just move out of SF and have not been able to find anyone that comes even remotely close to her. :( read more

WONDERFUL! Bokhara was simply amazing! Not only was the service great, relaxing, and just what I needed but I felt so welcomed and comfortable in her presence and the space that surrounded me. I enjoyed every minute of the massage and facial I received! I have never had a massage or a facial before, and Bokhara made sure I felt at ease and was VERY knowledgeable about skin-care and relaxation. Her wonderful hands put this tired nanny at peace. And she is lovely to talk to also! I can't recommend her enough! I am definitely coming back! read more

Just had a 60 min botanical facial and 30 swed-thai massage with Bokhara. She's awesome and so are her services! Highly recommend!

Bokhara is one of those rare SF finds you don't want everyone to know about. I've been going to her for years, and her services are extraordinary, as is her presence. She's the only person I'll go to for meticulous brow and skin care, not just because of the quality of her services from facials to waxing to hair removal, but for her supportive, thoughtful presence and conversation. She knows how to create a nurturing environment while being deeply competent, and is so thoughtful and genuine about what is best for her clients as they go through all the changes in their lives. read more

I made a yelp account for the sole purpose of rating this place! Bokhara was AMAZING! I also had the living social deal, 60 minute facial and 30 minute swed massage. Bokhara was very professional and her voice was so soothing, all you could do is relax! It was a wonderful experience, and I will totally go again!! read more

I LOVE Embody Zen and Bokhara! I have never been disappointed with her or her work. I see Bokhara for sugaring and am always pleased with the results. Words cannot describe how utterly grateful and impressed I am with Bokhara. I honestly don't know what I would do without her! Though any type of hair removal can be unpleasant at times, I always feel so relaxed and comfortable at Embody Zen. Bokhara is friendly, personable, and really knows what she is doing. I used to have ingrown hairs and irritated skin, but with Bokhara's meticulous techniques and knowledge of natural&organic oils and products, my skin has improved 100%. I never thought my skin could look this good, and I have to give all the credit to Bokhara. Sugaring is a wonderful method of hair removal but without someone as knowledgable and experienced as Bokhara it would not be half as successful. I also love how she explains everything she is doing and any products she is using on me. It always puts my mind at ease, and her expertise in the area comforts and impresses me. I have never been disappointed thus far. I truly could not be happier with my experience at Embody Zen. Bokhara has successfully created a peaceful and calming environment that puts any stress that I may have at ease. After my treatment with her, I feel totally relaxed and re-energized. I am completely satisfied with her work and she always addresses any concerns I might have. She is genuine and professional, and always sees to it that I am happy with her work. She is very easy to schedule and make an appointment with, and has often accommodated me when I have needed same day appointments. I recommend her to all my friends and family. read more

I was fortunate enough to see Bokhara a few weeks ago to use a Living Social coupon for a facial & mini massage. I asked Bokhara to extend the massage, which was an indulgent, relaxing treat. The facial was great - my skin looked amazing after and I had a coworker comment on it the next day! During the facial, she mentioned sugaring, which can be used even when you're using retinoids (yes, I still have acne even in my 30s). Sweet! I've been plucking my eyebrows myself for years - it was great to get them cleaned up professionally. Definitely check it out if you're on Accutane or Retin-A. Bokhara has a very light, soothing and confident touch. I look forward to returning. I wish that the sugaring was priced a little lower, as I'd like to get it done more regularly, but so it goes. I'd totally give it five stars if I made more money or could always use a coupon (I think another reviewer mentioned looking for a hot, rich man?). Great location for Lower Haight, NOPA, Alamo Square, Upper Haight, Inner Richmond - super easy bus or bicycle access. read more

I've been going to Bokhara for several years now and with reason. Not only are her treatments the best I've ever received, her spa studio is clean & comfortable, and her demeanor is the perfect balance of professional and warm. She is a thoughtful and considerate soul who cares genuinely about the well-being and comfort of her clients. The products she uses are very effective while gentle on the body and the environment. She may not be the least expensive out there, but for what you receive, the value is definitely unmatched. Do yourself a favor and check out her essential oil brand "Organic Devotion". Great stuff! read more

I mentioned in my review 7 months ago how I tasked Bokhara with aging me backwards. Well, I've been mistaken for a college student three times in the last few months... And I'm in my 30s. So, it's working :) read more

I was drawn to Embody Zen because of Bokhara's carefully chosen organic and truly pure and natural products. Since my first visit, I have felt safe and cared for by Bokhara's warm and skilled hands. I have entrusted Bokhara with monthly facials and bikini sugaring sessions. It has become one of my favorite times of the month! I appreciate the time and care that Bokhara takes; I have never felt rushed in her presence and always leave feeling brighter and lighter, inside and out. I am so grateful to have found Bokhara and can't say enough to express how positive and nourishing my experience at Embody Zen has been. :) read more

Embody Zen is a wonderful small business run by the wonderful Bokhara. From the moment you enter Bokhara's home, you feel like you are in a comfortable, warm, and sacred space. I have seen Bokhara for sugaring now a couple of times, something I was very hesitant to do. Bokhara totally put me at ease with her calm energy, and also carefully explained the process before we got started. The products she uses are natural and organic, and the treatment was done with care and skill. I just can't recommend her services enough! read more

I was lucky enough to find Bokhara 3 years ago and continue to feel so nurtured and nourished by her many offerings. Bokhara will welcome you into a truly zen experience that is both relaxing and restorative, all the while holding a warm, professional and creative space for you to feel pampered and cared for. Even after I moved across the bay, I continue to make the commute without a second thought. Totally worth it! read more

I'm so lucky I found Embody Zen! I have been going for over 5 years and could not be happier. Bokhara is extremely knowledgable, caring and attentive. Her sugaring treatments, skin care/facials and massages NEVER disappoint and I always leave feeling rejuvenated. Bokhara is incredibly warm, generous and peaceful, which comes through through all of her treatments. She always listens to my needs and walks me through everything she's doing. Bokhara makes hair removal virtually painless - something I never thought possible (especially the bikini area!). Her expert sugaring technique and use of organic products has completely transformed my skin. Before Bokhara, I suffered from ingrown hairs and felt hopeless w/any type of hair removal treatment. Now I have clear AND repaired skin - all thanks to Bokhara's treatments and recommended products. The massages are also amazing. I have gotten a lot of massages throughout the Bay Area, but nothing has compared to my experience at Embody Zen. The atmosphere is incredibly relaxing and healing, and Bokhara's massaging techniques and use of aromatherapy melts away all my tension and stress. I love the Bzen facials too - the treatments always leave my skin feeling nourished and fresh. Thanks to Bokhara's advice and the oil brand "Organic Devotion" my skin has completely cleared and I get so many compliments! Bokhara has helped me feel more in control of my skin and has helped restore my confidence. She's truly a miracle worker! I can't recommend Embody Zen enough - you won't be disappointed! read more

I have been going to Embody Zen for years now. Bokhara has the magic touch, and as someone with extremely sensitive skin, she knows exactly what works best for it. Her treatments have helped tremendously with every problem that my skin has exhibited to me throughout the years. I can't think of a better person to go to. I would 100% recommend Embody Zen to anyone wanting to feel a part of her healing space and amazing energy! Literally the best! read more

I started seeing Bokhara about 3 years ago. I was having a problem with a breakout on my face. It surprised me as I am in my 30's. Bokhara lovingly walked me through what could be casing it. She did an in depth intake to assess what in my lifestyle maybe causing this outbreak. She gave me some great advise with regards to my regime and how I treated my face. When it came to the facial itself I admitted that the extraction part made me feel nervous. My extraction were for the first time virtually painless. My face felt fantastic after my treatment. The best thing was within a short space of time my skin totally cleared up. I see Bokhara once a month and have had no further outbreak problems. She is very gentle, caring but effective. The best part is she is a trained massage therapist so you get a wonderful massage as part of your treatment. I was lucky to find Bokhara and love going to see her at the beautiful Soothe Spa in Upper Haight read more

such a disappointment. had high expectation because of the organic products but it came out nothing special. besides, esthetician's mouth smells really bad and talks too much. also, extraction work is not completed. it's kinda lazy~ read more

Bokhara is an absolute gem! I much prefer sugaring to waxing (easier on the skin, fewer in-growns, less painful) and it's hard to find a good technician. My search ended with Embody Zen. Bokhara cultivates an atmosphere or zen and relaxation and also bring to this a professionalism and attention to detail which results in as "enjoyable" a bikini sugaring as one can have. I highly recommend her and since I found her through Yelp reviews I wanted to return to favor to others looking for a talented beautician. You will not regret going to see her. read more

I found Bokhara on Yelp and my experiences with her have only been professional, thorough, and with great results. I can't wait until my next appointment - her studio is so calming - and I know I'll walk away feeling refreshed and ready for whatever comes my way. read more

Simply put, Bokhara is the best thing that ever happened to my face. Before I met her, I don't think I understood the value of having a consistent relationship with an esthetician. I've been seeing her for about two years now, and my skin has never looked better. She is knowledgable and passionate about her practice, and a true delight to be around. I highly recommend her to anyone who is looking for an esthetician who isn't just good at what they do, but also a partner in your overall well being. read more

I am no facial expert, but the facial I received from Bokara was hands down the best I have ever had!!! I always thought facials were for people who "needed" them, but I realized they are not only rejuvenating, but relaxing as well! I left Bokara feeling like a million bucks. She also helped me find a perfect face wash/moisturizing regimen and gave me loads of skin care tips. She is a wealth of information and sweet as can be! I will be back many many more times. read more

Bokhara is an absolutely gifted massage therapist. I always feel so relaxed after receiving her treatment. The setting has a warm ambiance that's conducive to a healing environment. I'm a certified massage therapist and hard to please. Bokhara consistently provides excellent care. I would recommend her to all my friends. read more