Geoff is fantastic. I have never seen anyone as ongoing as I have seen him. He's smart, kind, very skilled, and great with feedback. I am certified in massage as well, and I also have a bunch of weird body quirks and injuries. Both of these things makes me very picky. I need to be able to communicate highly specifically sometimes what I want and need to my body worker. He never fails to impress me with his humility and receptivity. He is very knowledgeable about bodies, but he knows that I know *my* body best. That being said- he is quite intuitive and has a fantastic style that anyone would enjoy even if you are like most people and don't want to talk through the session. read more

Had one of the best massages ever. What stood out to me is how much Geoff tailored the message to what I wanted, compared to most places that give you a traditional insert-a-style-here massage. My session began with Geoff warmly greeting me and then having me fill out a very well designed form with questions for customizing my massage. I've never seen questions like that for a massage and was pretty impressed. He then read my responses and we had a quick "pre-massage talk" to clarify what I wanted. The massage itself was excellent, and I left refreshed. I got a combination of Thai and deep tissue massage to open up some areas that were tight from my crossfit exercises. I was delighted that Geoff was familiar with crossfit and I felt that he knew exactly what I needed. He's also a fun person to talk with - Geoff has studied several massage techniques, done a good amount of traveling and he's a musician too. He let me take the lead with conversation, which I also appreciated since it allowed me to ask questions and have some quiet time too. The next day I woke up with much less soreness and tightness than the previous day, so his work made a huge improvement. I'll definitely be booking another appointment with him soon. read more

I'm sitting here at work, diligently getting through some mind-numbing tasks, and finally felt *compelled* to stop and reflect on my latest mind-altering experience. At the recommendation of Rachel M., I finally made an appointment with the urban legend that is Geoff Ball. I truly believe he is so much more than a massage therapist. All I know is I left his place feeling something I'd never felt before. It was the most intense and profound, yet simple and peaceful feeling. A combination of so many sensations - relief, fulfillment, pleasure, happiness, pure joy, relaxation, calm, stillness, vision... I left feeling somewhat intoxicated. I was so unfamiliar with the sensation after wards that I put my shirt on backwards! Geoff is truly a master of his craft - it's truly the most rewarding and fulfilling thing to know that someone out there, who doesn't even know you, is willing to put so much positive energy into your well-being. Because of all the physical energy he puts into caring for you, you really can't help but just let yourself go and trust that he will take care of you. One of the most mutually intuitive experiences of my life... I am counting the days until I can feel this way again. Beware - this feeling is addictive. read more

Be good to yourself - get a massage from Geoff Ball (it's more of a religious experience than a massage). Geoff is truly the most fabulous massage therapist, and his prices are unbeatable. He works out of his home but will also come to yours for treatment. You know how some people use the word "Starbucks" as a noun instead of the word coffee? My husband, friends and I have replaced the noun "massage" with the name Geoff Ball (i.e. "Dude, I'm getting a Geoff Ball tomorrow.") read more

This review is long over due. I found Geoff on yelp a couple of months ago due to just muscle pain everywhere. I remember it was a Sunday, which meant, no one would be open. Luckily, Geoff was able to take me in the following Monday morning to help my low back, shoulder and neck issues. He fully evaluates your concerns first and what kind of techniques you are comfortable with. He did an amazing job loosening me up! Keep in mind, he does his massages in his apartment. But at the same time, he is very professional and does a great job to accommodate you and make you feel comfortable. Parking can be a pain, but since this is in the mission, i usually like to wander around for a walk after my massage. I would definitely recommend Geoff to anyone close to the city! read more

My backside was giving me discomfort. A quick 30 minutes massage from Geff has made be forget I had any discomfort to began with. Geoff is a affordable professional miracle worker! read more

I agree w/ everyone, Geoff is great! During my training for a half marathon, I pulled my calf muscle, which was extremely painful. Desperate for relief, I went to Geoff based off the Yelp reviews. Not only did he see me on an extremely short notice, but Geoff managed to work most of the pain and inflammation from my calf. I have received countless massages over the years for all kinds of reasons and I can, without a doubt, say that my experience with Geoff was one of the best and most effective, if not the best, massages ever! read more

I visited Geoff Ball for a massage on New Year's day. I'm fairly new to the massage experience and have only received massages twice from other people before meeting with Geoff. I can say for certain that my experience with Geoff was the best, by far. While not experiencing any specific pain at the time, I was feeling tense in the neck and shoulder areas. After a brief introduction and explanation of what would take place, Geoff had me fill out a form and discuss with him verbally what I expected from my massage experience and was very cooperative in answering any questions I might have. Geoff used a combination of techniques to work out every kink in my muscles which left me feeling almost euphoric. Quite a unique experience. The great thing about Geoff is that he takes the time to get feedback from you, making sure that everything, from the amount of pressure he uses, to the background music, and even the temperature conditions of the room are to your liking. Nice attention to detail which leads to a very comfortable, relaxing, and positive massage experience. In summation, I can't think of a better way to start off my new year than with a Geoff Ball massage. I will definitely be back. read more

My goodness. I never realized what a star Geoff was. Of course, I always knew. But I didn't know that you all knew until I saw him here on Yelp. I think intuitive is the key word to describe Geoff's work. I asked him how he knows how deep to go without my saying anything. He said he listens to the breath, feels the muscles, knows to let up near the tendons, and also checks in with you to be sure. But all I ever say is, "great". I'm also always impressed that he has a lot of stretches and other information to offer to keep chronic pain at bay. He's truly a gifted healer. read more

Awesome! I came to see Geoff in the winter time when I was having some major back issues. Geoff was very accommodating and listened carefully to my needs. In my three visits, I came out feeling so much better every time. His technique and attention to your care are superb. With his help and some stretching and light exercise, I was able to get back on track to my regular routine. His rates are very reasonable as well. Don't hesitate to use Geoff if your back is aching. read more

Geoff is truly an expert CMT. He is fluent in multiple styles of massage, and is willing to incorporate different modalities within the same massage session. I generally prefer a "sports" massage focus, and I have found that both his strength and technique have helped me to recover more quickly from hard training and injury. I have also been impressed by his approach, which is professional but at the same time laid-back and personal. He keeps notes and remembers your preferences. I have seen several other practitioners in SF and outside of CA and I can say without reservation that Geoff is the best. read more

Geoff is the best. Period. I've had back pain for years, and while physical therapy, yoga and chiropractic have helped, none are really effective until my muscles are relaxed. The only way I've found to really relax the tension is a good massage. I've had some good ones over the years, but Geoff is better than any of them: he does a great massage. Aside from his technique, which is excellent, Geoff makes the effort to understand what the problem is, what's working or not working. He's a good listener, and he uses this to fine-tune his massage. I'm going every week or two now, and it's made a real difference. read more

Oh Geoff- you changed my mind about deep tissue massages for good. I used to be scared of the temporary discomfort and insist on light handed Swedish massage only- Geoff combined the two at my request and I left floating on air, with seriously lasting results I strongly recommend Geoff for any serious back, neck or shoulder issues. I felt relaxed, taller and perfectly sore. Fantastic! I will be back read more

Geoff was recommended to me as "the best massage therapist I've ever had." I was skeptical, having had other good massages, until after my first massage with Geoff. He is, far and away, the best massage therapist I have ever had. I leave his table feeling elastic, aligned and peaceful. He's intuitive and gifted and technically very, very skilled. Go now and go often. Peigi read more

I have been getting massages from Geoff Ball for at least 5 years now and although I once in awhile get a massage somewhere else, I always wish they were as good as Geoff's, which are an amazing experience every time. He combines a variety of massage techniques/styles for the perfect combination of deep tissue, Thai stretches, and relaxing Swedish and no one else I've tried comes close to being as good, especially at the depp tissue/pressure points. He will even come to your house to work his magic! Geoff saved my life after a too-strenuous hiking trip left me unable to walk. So good! Go. read more

Geoff was incredibly thoughtful and took time to find out why I had come to see him for my first massage. I have lower back issues and he did a great job with deep tissue work. Looking forward to booking with him again! read more

Excellent! Geoff realizes that massages are not one-size-fits-all, and works very hard to understand your likes/dislikes. If you want a massage with deep pressure, you'll get it here. He's not afraid to dig in. Every movement is deliberate and purposeful, and he seems to enjoy his work. I'll be back, for sure! read more

Caring, thoughtful, very present in the moment. That`s how I describe the 2-hour long customized massage I received from Geoff today. I left refreshed and relaxed, which was exactly my goal for the day. Thank you, Geoff. read more

I just had the best massage of my life - and I've had a lot of massages. Geoff Ball is not only incredibly skilled and experienced, he's also very thoughtful, pleasant, and comfortable. To begin with, Geoff took the time to talk with me beforehand and curated a massage that exactly met my needs. I was able to choose a mix of massage styles, and he even asked about my music and temperature preference. Also, I've found that most masseuses have a standard routine and my experience with Geoff was unique in that rather than following a pre-set routine, he seemed to really be in-tune to every knot and tangle in my body and he took the time - never rushing - to work on them attentively. My body and my soul are feeling at peace and wholly blissful, many thanks to Geoff. I'm looking forward to going back. read more

Traffic was crazy in the city yesterday due to SF marathon and Folsom street fair... neither of which I took part in. So needless to say my car was barely crawling; it was like a parking lot on Valencia & Mission. So I was stressing that I would miss my appointment with Geoff. He was very friendly and accomodating even though I was very late. He still was able to give me a 40min deep tissue massage focusing primarily on my neck, shoulders, and back. Well I have to say it was pretty amazing. And I will definitely be back! My only complaint is that I still prefer the spa-like ambiance, since he works from home... I didn't feel that comfortable at first. But I am searching to find a phenomenal massage therapist so that I can become a regular customer... and so far Geoff may be the one. read more

I visited Geoff about a month ago due to lingering neck strain. I'd visited my doctor the day before and she had recommended massage to me (in addition to some muscle relaxants) and Geoff was local and highly rated. Geoff started by discussing why I came in, the issues I was having, and where I'd like to have work done. During the massage he spent a lot of time working on the trapezius vs the neck. Afterwards, he explained he saw a good degree of knotted muscle there and how the trapezius influences the neck. He followed by saying that with what he did, it would be sore for a few days but that I would feel a substantial amount of relief afterwards. He also gave me a sample of some cooling gel for any pain I'd have for the neck in the short term. Sure enough, a few days later I had more motion in my neck than I had in a month and an understanding of why I'd been having neck pain in the first place. Geoff was very professional throughout and I highly recommend him. He does work outside of his apartment which I could see being unappealing to some. However, his work space is very professional and as well equipped as any spa. I will certainly be visiting him again. Update: I've continued to visit Geoff every few months. I've gotten a lot of relief each time and often information on the parts of my body he noticed were very tight and some stretches to address them on my own. It's made me more aware of my body and its problem areas which has kept me in the gym more consistently and more limber day to day. read more

Geoff asks lots of questions and really listens and tailors the massage to your needs. i've never had a regular massage before and I love it! The price point and ease of scheduling makes it accessible. As others said, his studio is in his house no no fancy spa but its completely comfortable and professional. read more

I have been seeing Geoff for over 15 years now. He gives, without a doubt, the best massage I have ever ever received. Always checks in with you as to how your body is feeling; where do you need the work; what sort of pressure do you prefer; do you want stretches; and always has pressure which for sure you know is working your body. I have had massages at resorts all over the world, for like 3X the price, and without a doubt Geoff schools them all. As long as I am living in the bay area Geoff will be my massage therapist and friend. Go give your body some loving!!! read more

I was a bit nervous to receive a professional massage. The only massages I'd ever received were from lovers in a sexual context so I was concerned that I wouldn't be able to fully relax and enjoy a massage from a stranger. But Geoff is a true professional. He was able to put me at ease and give me an intense massage that really did feel beneficial. Geoff was able to delicately question me to see what type of techniques would be most beneficial, despite my ignorance of the various massages types. He has a thought out process, with attention to detail that even includes a glass of water waiting for you when you arrive. If you're looking for a professional massage therapist that knows what he is doing, Geoffs your guy. Super easy to get to his place as well. Right by 16th Street Bart. read more

update 09.26.07: he plays the BEST music during each session, none of that ocean surf/rain drops/wind chimes pseudo new-agey crap. *********************************************************************** seems we've all been on that quest to find the perfect CMT. i'm talkin' a REAL massage THERAPIST, not some bogus wimpy aromatherapy expert at some plush spa. i think i might've found him and it's thanks to yelp! this guy busted some sweet moves i'd never seen before on my neck and shoulders to rid me of my chronic pain. he got in that shoulder blade like nobody's business. and he knows when to lay on the pressure and when to ease off w/a gentle touch. he assures me he's got some more tricks up his sleeves. so i guess you know where i'll be every tuesdays at 5. (oh and it's true about his rates. i think he gave me MORE than an hour and he's a bargain!) read more

I recently got a deep tissue massage with a focus on my back from Geoff and it was awesome. I felt like he completely opened up my back and loosened up all of my muscles. I had so much tension in my shoulder blades and he completely got rid of it. I paid for an hour long massage, but he spent longer than an hour really getting the knots out. This is a real professional massage not a spa massage. If you are dealing with pain, you need to see Geoff. He seems to really understand the body. I will definitely be back!!! read more

Today was my second visit to see Geoff and it was another excellent experience leaving me feeling loose, relaxed and pain free. I very much appreciated that Geoff called to let me know that there was some surprise roof work being done and that he was more than happy to reschedule to another day when it wouldn't be so loud-more than kind! I'll be back over and over for over all body maintenance and relief of painful spots. read more

Geoff is a fantastic masseuse--very attentive and gentle. I have seen him a few times and he has always been fantastic. He is also extremely conveniently located if you live in the Mission!! read more

Geoff is the best! I've been seeing him for at least 6 yrs ... not as regularly as I would have liked, but the first one I call when I need some kinks worked out, a stiff neck relaxed or just a melt me away massage! Can't wait, I'm getting some Geoff time tonight! read more

10-10-09: I just saw Geoff because I have been having terrible neck and shoulder pain. I can clearly say he is the best massage therapist I have EVER been to. I live in Concord and take the bart to see him and it is totally worth it. He is amazing. There is no massage therapist in my area nearly as good as Geoff! In fact, they don't even come close! He does amazing shoulder/neck/chest work. He really gets in there. Takes him time and gets the work done. read more

What they say is true - had my first massage w. him very recently and he's professional, relaxed, and makes you feel GOOD. I've had plenty of quality massages before, but none of them have made my back feel like something that may eventually be free of knots (and I wouldn't blame Geoff if it is never knot-less). He's also a very down-to-earth guy, friendly, and accomodating. read more

Geoff Ball is the BEST masseuse in the world. I can say in the world because I took a year off and traveled around the world and everyplace I got a massage, I kept thinking to myself, "This was nice, but it was no Geoff Ball massage." He knows just where the knots and tight area are located. He does wonderful stretch work and applies the right amount of pressure. I like deep massages, and unlike others who treat too lightly, he applies a good amount of pressure, to relieve all the tight areas. It also helps that Geoff is a very nice guy. read more

It's true! I just chuckled reading the last few reviews...because that is exactly what I thought when I left... "That was by far the best massage of my life." I was introduced to Geoff at my yoga studio where he was giving complimentary 10 minute massages. I have had lower back pain for years...and have subsequently over compensated tension in other areas of my body. Geoff asked me a few questions and took it from there. His intuition is incredible. It's like he knew exactly what I needed. He even spent extra time with me (even though he wasn't getting a dime) just to ensure that I had a good experience. ...which I certainly did. I left feeling altered...on multiple levels...and about 10 pounds lighter. He's magical, truly. Check him out...you won't be sorry. read more

HOLY bananas Batman! Geoff was not only the consummate professional in every way shape and form,but he was an encyclopedia of information about local bay area musicians(he is one,the lead singer in a fantastic David Bowie tribute band,The Jean Genies)AND sketch comedy! What a fun guy to talk to! But he also took his work VERY seriously and really took the time to get a full diagnosis of what i needed.I have the posture of a Seahorse,and as a result my neck and shoulders are always tighter than heck.I FLOATED off that table,and woke up with my shoulders feeling like they were filled with whipped cream and clouds! Geoff was also very well informed about chronic pain,which sadly i have tons of,and he made several references to things to try and natural remedies and local places to purchase said products,Thanks Geoff! I will most certainly be going back to Geoff,and will be really,REALLY looking forward to seeing how he can work his magic into my body again and again. And his massage room is like being inside of a Genies lamp.It is visually calming,gorgeous and magical.He obviously spent a lot of time making that space the ultimate comfort zone. There is a reason Geoff has so many good reviews.Book him now and you'll never regret it. read more

I've been getting massages from Geoff for almost 10 years. I call him magic hands Geoff because what he does to your body is truly magical. He is without a doubt, the best masseuse I have ever seen. He works with you on an individual basis and tailors his massage specifically to your needs. The breadth of his knowledge is astounding and the array of work he can do - pressure, swedish, sports stretching, deep tissue, breathing is awesome. I recommend him to everyone I know and even made my mom a convert (and she lives on the east coast!) Really, make an appointment with him and you will be a convert as well! And if his skill weren't enough - he is also one amazing guy! read more

Geoff is very talented, professional and personable. He blends Swedish style and deep tissue techniques with great results. He is attentive and takes time to listen to you, but overall is very time efficient with doing the actual massage. Overall he's the best I've experienced amongst a very good group of pros here in San Francisco. read more

I'm very picky with massage therapists and Geoff is hands down one of the best I have ever been to. Runs his biz out of his home so it's not a spa but its still fantastic and he is always spot on with pressure and speed. HIGHLY recommended! read more

I have been coming to Geoff for the last 6 months. He is possibly the best CMT ever! Started with 60mins and quickly moved to 90mins. We always discuss the areas of focus and he makes sure you are 100% comfortable before he starts. He is a very talented and a very kind person. I have experienced all kind of massages everywhere and this is hands down, the best massage in San Francisco! Enjoy! read more

Wow, wow, wow. A few years ago I was looking for a massage therapist in SF. I must have gone through 4 or 5 before I found Geoff. This review is horrendously overdue, and all I can say is, Geoff is the best massage therapist I've had since moving to the Bay Area. He does massages in his living room, and his home is in the Mission, so if you drive a car and expect to find easy, free parking, good luck. But he's very close to the 16th St BART and Valencia St. is one of SF's busiest cycling routes, so consider taking a more environmentally friendly form of transportation (it's better for your health too). And of course, if you need the slick, upscale spa experience with candles, expensive stone work and frosted glass doors, look elsewhere. There's plenty of that around. But what Geoff offers that no other massage therapist I've had in the Bay Area has offered me, is an extremely attentive massage that's completely tailored to what I need. With Geoff, the massage is all about *you*. Whatever you want and need at that moment. Geoff is great about asking for feedback as the massage progresses, giving me extra attention where I need it, adjusting pressure. He's versatile, being excellent both at fluid, long strokes as well as relieving specific spots and pressure points. I usually go to Geoff when my neck and shoulders are hurting from long hours at the desk, but I leave his home with my feet, hands and legs singing with delight. If you're looking to chat, Geoff will gladly have a conversation with you during your massage. If you want peace and quiet, he'll create the perfect ambiance. Life is too busy these days, but for 90 minutes (I most recommend this length in order to get the most thorough massage), I'm in another world, away from my worries and problems. Right there, on that table, I'm enjoying the most heavenly bliss. read more

Absolutely wonderful massage therapist. He was very attentive and very thorough. I paid for an hour-long massage, and unlike many other massage therapists he definitely spent more than an hour on my massage, as well as additional time for followup advice. Will definitely be back the next time I am having muscular problems. Thanks Geoff! read more