She is one of the most caring people I have met. And truly wants you to be pain-free.

I started seeing Marcelina in March of this year and she has quickly become an essential part of my wellness routine. She's incredibly skilled and has a real understanding of the body--she always finds the spots that need work without me even having to say it. I struggle with tension headaches, migraines, and stress, and her therapeutic bodywork has made a huge difference for me. On top of being amazing at what she does, she has such a calm and kind energy. Her private studio is clean, peaceful, and relaxing--honestly the perfect environment to reset and take care of your body. I've tried a lot of massage therapists over the years, but Marcelina is truly on another level. She's professional, intuitive, and genuinely cares about her clients. So grateful I found her and I can't recommend her enough! read more

I've been working with Marcelina for the last 5 months and would recommend her to anyone who is looking for a truly transformative experience. She does an amazing job of talking with you to understand your needs, goals and any problem/focus areas while also bringing in her own expertise to make recommendations. I'd highly recommend the 3-pack, as having her work on several related areas in sequence made a huge difference in helping release my hips and hamstrings. Marcelina's massage has been a great compliment to my other fitness practices (stretching/yoga, running, strength training). read more

Been seeing Marcelina once or twice a month for the past year and it's been a game changer!! I feel super relaxed and nourished after each session, and it's seemed to help my muscle recovery from hard workouts and injuries. Highly recommend her trio 90 series for those considering. Especially in your first few sessions you'll see how each one gets better and better! read more

I've been getting massages with Marcelina regularly for half a year and I can't recommend her enough! Marcelina really emphasizes approaching pain holistically and is so knowledgeable about what she does. I love hearing about the different strategies and philosophies she's learned -- you can tell that she is always working to improve her skills and really cares about her craft. I've seen noticeable improvements in the tension throughout my body/muscles after every session. :) read more

When you find someone who is doing exactly what they should be doing in life: that's Marcelina. Incredible massage, she's so attentive, attuned and genuine. read more

Heaven. Marcelina is so attuned and welcoming. I can tell that Marcelina is really listening to what my body is saying. As a new mom, it feels so important to have a healer working with my body and I felt really taken care of. I was gifted a 3 session package and it was worth every penny. I felt so relaxed and rejuvenated after each massage but the 3rd one was particularly healing. I can tell my nervous system is so grateful for the time and slowness. Can't wait to go back. Highly recommend. read more

Marcelina is absolutely magical. I spent a long time trying to find a good massage therapist in Oakland who can actually help treat and prevent injuries. I came to her with a knee injury, muscle imbalances, and stiffness throughout my neck at shoulders, and every single time she amazes me with the way she's able to customize and adapt her treatment based on the problem areas she finds on any given day. I leave my appointments feeling like I'm floating out of the room and have so much energy the next day. My whole body also feels significantly more aligned and balanced. Highly recommend seeing Marcelina as a part of your recurring self care / injury prevention regiment! read more

Marcelina is one of the most gifted massage therapists I've ever met (And I've been lucky enough to get massages around the world by gifted therapists)! I would describe her approach as therapy for the body. She hones in on problem areas with just a touch of her hands and is able to release the most tension from your body with her caring approach and breathing techniques. Additionally, if you struggle with anxiety or chronic stress, she's perfect for you. She made me feel safe and was able to help release me from my constant daily fight or flight mode. After the massage, I felt so happy and like myself for a change. Marcelina - I know you said you're not a magician, but I think you just might be. read more

Been going to Marcelina for over 10 years! I go back because she's a talented and intuitive body worker. Marcelina's care and skill are so evident in her massage. Highly recommend booking an appointment! read more

Marcelina is amazing. I went to her for a few months prior to moving away from the area and I was sad to go. She was so knowledgable about maintaining balance (in life!) and taught me powerful breath work that helped so much during my massage. She was able to loosen up my chronically tight neck and shoulders too. What can I say, she's the best, I highly recommend her! read more

Marcelina is gifted healer. I have been coming to her for more than two years now. I also went to her for prenatal massage. She is a holistic masseuse. She reads your body as she works on it and works through the problematic areas in your body. Her technique is not following same routine every single time. If your body needs hot stones she will recommend that. I would personally recommend her. I come to her once a month. All the future mom's get your prenatal massage through her, you will thank me later, but thank her first. On top she is a great human being. read more

I visited Marcelina after experiencing discomfort in my neck and shoulders that was impacting my ability to exercise, work, and sleep. After my first session with her, I knew I had found the perfect place for healing. Marcelina is personable, takes the time to ask questions and offer explanations, and is highly skilled at what she does. She offers a package deal on three 90-minute massages, which I highly recommend because it allows each session to build on the last for maximum results. I felt the tension being released a little more each time. read more

Marcelina is the bomb! I have pretty bad peroneal tendonitis in my right leg. Physical therapy wasn't working. But after only 4 sessions with Marcelina, I am doing much better. The pain in my leg has almost completely gone away. She really knows what she is doing. read more

I have been receiving Marcelina's talented touch for deep tissue massage on and off for many years. She is truly amazing! I have received a lot of massages over the many years and Marcelina has the unique ability to create a relaxing space (for mind and body) while also providing truly therapeutic results for my body. This is rare to find! My stiffness, stress, tightness from an old injury?... she finds it and works with it. While it takes deep tissue work to feel change she has such an intuitive way of working: it's like magic and allows her to balance ease and the needed pressure. I leave my massages feeling energized AND relaxed. The affects are long lasting as well. What a wonderful, thoughtful and talented human being and massage practitioner!! read more

Amazing masseuse. Very in tune with the clients body and needs. I would highly recommend Marcelina

After a few very stressful weeks, my wife gifted me a massage by her favorite, Marcelina. It had been a while since I had one done, so I was a little nervous at first. To my pleasant surprise, Marcelina made me feel incredibly comfortable and walked me through the entire process. The room was perfectly and delicately designed around comfort. The music was relaxing and at a perfect volume, the temperature was just right, and the different smells were calming. The massage? Let me tell you, you NEED one. She was consistently helping me understand and follow my breath patterns, while slowly increasing the intensity of my massage. She listened to my needs and focused on them, and then parts I didn't know were related to them. The way I felt during and after she was done was something I hadn't experienced before. Simply put, she absolutely blew my mind and not only will I come back, I will do longer sessions. I greatly recommend her work to anyone looking for a well informed and involved massage, especially for men who aren't used to massages in general. read more

This review is long overdue! I've had 2 massages with Marcelina and I just reserved by third. She is awesome! The first massage was a 60 minute. I was completely out of shape after having babies and so sore. I told her to be gentle with me, even though I normally like a firm massage. She really listened to what was going on with me and catered her body work around what I had told her. The second massage was 90 minutes and I felt amazing after that. I was ready for a little more pressure by that time and she delivered. I walked out feeling great and ready for a nap! Her studio is pleasant and relaxing. I also felt really comfortable with her COVID precautions, which is essential! I did street parking. Make sure you put plenty of time on your meter so you don't have to rush! read more

Marcelina is a gifted therapist and I recommend her to anyone. Her massages are relaxing and she puts a lot of effort into making you comfortable. What is amazing is that her massages can actually heal tissue injuries. I am NOT a believer in this kind of stuff, and I was thinking about surgery for the knee I busted hitting a barrel at 35 miles an hour (long story.) But after just two sessions, my knee is 80% less painful and my range of motion has improved 50%. It's still stiff, but I am confident more sessions will help. Just go - she's amazing. read more

Have you ever just wanted to get beaten up? I'm not talking kinky, I'm talking about muscle massage that gets in deep with determination and above all, care! I've been seeking a body worker for years that can utilize the breath to release tension in the body and beyond: it's wonderful to have Marcelina's guidance in breath as the body is not-so-gentle coaxed into submission and relaxation. If you're seeking fine tuned precision and intricate care, this may not be the massage for you...though bodies and mileage certainly do vary, and Marcelina is gifted at feeling misalignment and tension. My partner and I both visit regularly with a variety of past and present injuries and physical needs between us. We couldn't be happier with the location (oh so easy to get to), ambiance (lovely space and atmosphere), energy (kind and considerate with oodles of care), and capabilities! read more

I received a gift certificate for a 1.5 hour massage. I was very much looking forward to it, but alas. The space itself is small. The fan, accompanied by the open window traffic noise is not conducive to relaxing. After her asking and me telling her what I was looking for (feet/hands for a majority of the massage), the majority of the massage was spent on my back and it seemed the last .5 hours was spent on my arms/legs/feet being rushed for each extremity. And, after specifically asking for hands/feet, little attention was paid to them. I don't think I've ever had a massage therapist slap the soles of my feet like she did. Annoying? Yes. Restful? No. read more

If you're debating spending money on a massage - stop now, because a massage with Marcelina is worth it. Super easy to make appointments online, and a conveniently accessible location. There's a bathroom in the hall that Marcelina has the key for. She takes the time to check in about what you want to work on that day, and definitely delivers. Her pace and pressure is perfect. I've never experienced so much progress with my chronic pain areas, just after one 30-minute session. Whaaa? She has specials for 30-minute massages during the lunch hour that I definitely recommend taking advantage of if you can. Just generally, her prices are pretty competitive and more affordable than other places in the area. Check her out! You'll be happy you did. read more

Marcelina is the literal best. As a massage therapist, she manages to get more done in 30 minutes than most can do in an hour. She's powerful, and yet somehow manages to make me completely relax even as she's digging deep to get at the root of the problem areas. I have incredibly tense shoulder and neck muscles, and no one has been able to relieve the tension quite like Marcelina. She's obviously super knowledgeable about the body and massage techniques. If you have something weird going on in your body that you can't quite pinpoint, describe it to her - chances are she'll be able to figure it out and make you feel much better. She really pays attention, and you can tell she 100% genuinely cares her clients. This makes for a great experience every time. The space itself is super chill - just a comfortable room in an office building. But the relaxing decor and lovely music make it feel homey. It's clear there was a lot of thought put into the massage bed itself - it's always super fresh, comfy, and warm. It's small, but you still get the feeling that you're stepping out of the real world into a sort of oasis. read more

I was referred to Marcelina a few years ago by a fellow hairstylist after I committed to making my body feel as good as possible even though my profession makes it hard to stay pain free. Every massage I get is so relaxing and healing, Marcelina creates such a calm environment and helps me focus on my breathing and I feel like my treatments are so much more effective with her knowledge and guidance. Thank you for all that you do!! read more

Have gone to Marcelina a handful of times and absolutely love my massages. They are both relaxing and therapeutic. She doesn't shy away from working on your deep tissue if you want, but always leave feeling relaxed. My wife's chiropractor recommended her, and I couldn't be more satisfied! read more

Hands down best massage therapist I've ever been to. Intuitive and always able to read where my body issues are. The breathing technique Marcelina encourages helps me to stay focused in the present and surrender to the process. I am now a regular client and I feel a tremendous amount of relief from pain and stress. Highly recommended. read more

From start to finish, one of the most amazing therapeutic experiences of my life!! The best massage I've ever had, hands down. I was referred to Marcelina glowingly by a friend. I went to her because I have been struggling with a debilitating pain and tension in my mid-back and neck. Marcelina not only found where it hurt and was tense, but she also located the surrounding locations and areas that were connected to and causing the main pain and tension. The experience overall left me on a cloud. While the pain and tension is not all the way gone, which was not possible, she definitely put me on the path!! I will most definitely be going back again, and again!! Thank you Marcelina! read more

I just left from my very first appointment with Marcelina for a one hour massage. Man, I feel like ten million bucks!!! I am currently 6 mos preggy with twins. I have been fortunate to have very little aches and pains at this point but I thought I would treat myself to a massage anyway. Space - one room, one table, ALL of Marcelina's careful attention. Her space is on the 5th fl of a downtown Oakland building. I was totally able to tune out the outside hustle and bustle. Awesome! Relaxing music and a ceiling fan made for a pleasant ambience. Massage - Marcelina is very mindful and purposeful in her bodywork. She gets a brief history from you, asks about the amount of pressure then discusses her findings with you after so you know where your problem areas are. She had a firm but gentle touch with me. She could easily identify exactly where all the knots and tender spots were and worked on loosening up those areas. Just spectacular! Her rates are very affordable. It's easy to schedule online and she accepts credit cards. My little unborn babes moved more during her massage than I have ever felt so that was a cool bonus for me. I highly recommend you book your appointment now and TREAT YO'SELF! read more

I've been seeing Marcelina for more than 7 years and she is amazing! She is THE best massage therapist I've seen. I work in Administration and do a lot of computer work and have tendinitis in wrists and elbows, and Marcelina is always able to relieve the pain. Her space is really comfortable and serene, and she is so welcoming. I also value how she checks in with me during the massage to make sure I'm getting what I need. She is wonderful! read more

Walking into the room at Massage by Marcelina you feel an instant relaxation. I have been committed and disciplined in going to Marcelina ever 2 weeks for over 6 months now. She is not only talented and well-educated in the industry of massage therapy, aroma therapy and hot stone massages but you instantly feel her great energy and positive approach knowing that she enjoys relaxation and the therapy of healing. Being sick and undergoing surgery, she was an amazing support system always being attentive to how I was feeling each time I went in for a massage. Her scheduling process is seamless, she is always on-time and each time she assures me that I am there to give myself some time. And that is a reminder each time that this dedication to me is important. I have zero, "0" complaints about her.. Just advise you to GO asap, you deserve it! read more

Marcelina is a talented massage therapist and I highly recommend! She said the second massage is always better and she is so right. The first massage I had was great but the second was incredible! She even added some hot stones, which is always appreciated. Also, I love that Marcelina helps me focus on breathing throughout the massage :) read more

What a great experience! This was my first professional massage so I was a little nervous, but that went away as soon as I met Marcelina. She has a warm, inviting presence which makes for a very relaxing experience. I was able to shut my mind off during this very comfortable and relaxing massage. She knew just what to do and I left feeling amazing! The relaxing music and delightful aromatherapy made it even more special. Thank you! I'll definitely be back. read more

I feel so lucky to have found Marcelina! I started going to her a few months ago- after having pretty severe back pain caused by too many long work days and too much commuting. She very quickly found the sources of my pain and has worked out so many nasty kinks. She's extremely thorough and communicates with me to make sure that she is applying the right amount of pressure. And I have to say, the heated massage bed and heated towels that she puts on my back at the end of my massage are to die for. If it wasn't for the amazing coffee drinks waiting outside at the Hat Rac, I'd probably never leave her cozy studio! Getting a massage from Marcelina is a true treat. I can see why she was voted Best of the Bay. read more

I went to Marcelina on Saturday and OH EMM GEE!!! I have been struggling with a pinched nerve and it's caused numbness down my arm to my hands, mostly my left, as well as horrible migraine headaches. I drive a lot for work, and physical therapy just wasn't helping. Marcelina focused on the pinched nerve area and I cannot say how AMAZING this experience was!!! She has made me feel better than I have felt in over six months!! I have more functionality in my hand, and my pinched nerve feels completely worked out!!! Miracle worker?? YES!!! I am so thankful to have found this amazing place!!! I will DEFINITELY go back regularly!!! read more

I can honestly say this was the best massage of my life. Marcelina is so skilled. She has a positive energy about her, and I can't wait for my next massage. Thank you Marcelina! read more

Flying across the country can be painful enough and after a long flight from New York, I tweaked my back. A friend referred me to Marcelina for some quick relief and I'm so glad I went to her Oakland studio/oasis for an hour massage. Marcelina is strong, thoughtful about pressure and pain, and effortlessly balances a conversation about your body with the meditative experience you'd hope to get from body work. I was particularly impressed with how she tapped pressure points in my legs, feet and shoulders to alleviate the severe pain in my back. She also uses a variety of essential oils (you can request a fragrance for stress relief, relaxation, etc!) and delicious lotions -- I left feeling much more mobile and smelling great. Booking the appointment online was easy (I scheduled a lunchtime massage that morning), the location is convenient near 19th Street BART and her prices are affordable. I'll definitely be coming back to Marcelina for some holistic healing next time I'm in town. read more

Omg hands down the best professional massage therapist I've seen. Marcelina is a goddess with her hand's. I have been searching for years and I think I finally found her She was referred to me by a close friend and boy she wasn't lying when she said she was amazing Today was my first visit I can to her with a couple of problems and I walked out of there like a new man I will definitely be a regular now TRUST ME U NEED TO SEE HER THANK YOU Angelo read more

Amazing amazing work. Marcelina is truly gifted. She has such a beautiful relaxing and calm space. I highly recommend her!

Marcelina has great instincts and knows exactly where my pain points are. I've been going to her for about six months and every time have left with an incredible new level of relaxation. As many have said, she is the best out there. Her intuition and knowledge of the human body and how everything is connected allows her to pinpoint exactly the root of the problem. This last time, I briefly mentioned having some tightness in my shins and she was able in the course of a few minutes, completely take the pain and tightness away. I'm a customer for life! read more

Super knowledgeable body worker. Marcelina understands the body in a way no other therapist has been able to, and I've seen a lot of therapists. She uses multiple modalities and modifies the massage to match the needs of the individual. I would highly recommend Marcelina to anyone! She's amazing! read more