I come from a family of massagers - we all massage each other. I believe in getting regular massages just for maintenance. Yet I rarely find practitioners that provide effective deep tissue massage. Raul - is amazing. I give him an overview of what's going on in my body, and what I'm looking for... and he knows EXACTLY where to find the right muscle groups, how to work out persistent knots, how to ready your body for healing. I strongly recommend Raul for your massage needs: tweaked neck, deep knots, or just a relaxing massage. read more

Raul Castro is a massage wizard. His ability to attune to you and listen to your body and what it needs is so incredible. My sessions with him have been SO fulfilling, useful, relaxing, and meaningful. Thanks Raul!!! Can't wait to come back. read more

To call Raul a "massage therapist" would be an understatement. His skills are next level, I think it would be more appropriate to call him a healer. Don't expect an effective session with him to be a soothing, relaxing experience where you fall asleep to spa music. He's there to fix what ails you (in my case, chronic back tension due to the nature of my work and also juggling two toddlers). This will oftentimes feel intense and you'll have to do a bit of work, kind of like physical therapy. But the results are totally worth it. The positive effects from a 90-minute session with Raul last a lot longer than that of a typical massage. Raul's space is cozily tucked away in the Leela Yoga studio. It's a comforting environment and Raul is nothing but professional. He puts his clients at ease with his soothing and compassionate demeanor. I'm really grateful to be able to have bodywork done by him and would highly recommend him to those who are looking to get more healing out of massage therapy. read more

We first met Raul at local swing dances and quad skating events so when I came across his listing in my search for a new therapist, I immediately made an appointment. I really appreciate the relief that he's brought my husband in working through the knots of severe inflammation caused by a misplaced flu shot (SIRVA). Periodic sessions with Raul keep my back loose enough to move comfortably in the morning - no more gingerly leaning on the bathroom counter while brushing my teeth. Booking appointments is easily done through Raul's website and the site also sends appointment reminders. Nearby street parking is readily available other than during the Farmers' Market on Tuesday and Saturday mornings, there are nearby bus stops on Santa Clara and Webster, and there's a post for bike parking out front. read more

Raul is a real healer and his massages are true healing experiences. I've been getting bodywork since I was a teenager and Raul, is hands down, the best massage therapist I've worked with. He's intuitive and not only follows the body's knots and tension, but follows the energy that is stored and often 'stuck' in muscles and works tirelessly to release it. He understands how the energy and emotions we hold in our bodies affects us structurally -- and, more importantly, understands how to release that energy and free up the body from tension and pain. There really isn't anyone better in the Bay Area to go to if you are serious about bodywork. read more

Raul is a great therapist and offers a truly tailored to your needs session. His knowledge of how pain travels and how to fix it is outstanding. He creates a space where you feel truly cared for and completely safe. I highly recommend Raul! read more

I first learned about Raul's Bodywork & Massage services through a yoga studio, Leela Yoga, where he rents a room in the back. I couldn't help but notice a couple of the teachers gearing up to have a session with him. They were so thrilled and anxious to enter their appointment that my curiosity was on high alert. I was able to buy one of Raul's packages and saw him on a regular basis for about 6 weeks. I was struggling with a lot of grief and as a result was holding so much tension in my body. Raul's methodology is so intuitive and connected. He never rushed a session or an area in my body that needed a lot of attention. He is truly a healer and it was the best type of therapy I could've asked for after an incredibly traumatic event. He is like a local medicine man. He's able to listen what your body needs and adjust accordingly. I STRONGLY urge anyone who's dealing with grief and loss to see him. He was able to put my mind and body back together and I feel so grateful. read more

Current stress levels are higher and as nonsensical as the Tower of Babel. I'm frustrated with my lack of power in 14 different situations. I keep dreaming of being unable to move while faceless haters whale on my body. I puttered through Yelp massage reviews till I found, "2 hours for $115," and made an appointment for the same day. I arrived, rang the doorbell, and was immediately assuaged with happy tongues, happy to see whoever you are. No better way to begin a massage then being loved by Raul's rescue puppies. Raul and I sat and talked about my life style, work, exercise regimen. I asked ignorant questions about his technique and entrusted myself to his proposed comprehensive method. His studio is PERFECT. Beautiful. Clean. Peaceful. He's going to open the door one morning and say, "Have you been here all night, Lydia?" Running waterfalls, calming meditative music, nature sounds, warm colors, beautiful scents. Heated bed. Just perfect. I've never had someone read my body so well. He felt my solis (sp er?) in my calf and knew that it was a symptom of my tight hip muscles. We destroyed my trigger points together. Trigger pts? When the muscle's injured, extra fluid enters and remains behind. He would massage it until they spasmed to their deaths. "Normally, I don't talk this much but I'm just answering all your questions," he apologetically said after giving me all the above info. Upper back and lower neck. He put open hands on my upper back. "Whoa, you're holding a lot in." And he began. Kneading, pressing. This is the weirdest part but there were some specific points that were very hard to get through. He wouldn't relent until it was dead. When the pain climbed to the pinnacle of unbearable, it'd release and I'd feel an emotional poof. With each dying pain point, I'd exhale emotion in my breath. Tears of release absorbed onto my face cover. Earlier while undressing, I cynically interpreted a sign that read, "GRATITUDE," to mean, "don't forget to tip me." After, while putting my clothes back on, I reread the sign and it resonated different truths. It's a stance that Raul lives by. I can attest to that by the humble and honest way he approached his work on my body. read more

Raul has magical hands, a big heart, and is truly a caring, healing presence. This year as the pandemic abated, I received a session: I came in w/ a body that was tense, hyperalert, and ragged from the isolation and uncertainty (my industry had been closed). The way he touches, the body just TRUSTS him and RELAXES...he is careful, soothing, sensitive and very knowledgable. I totally entered an altered state in the session, came out all woozy & chill like I hadn't felt in ages (without chemical influence hehe). I'd used his services over a decade ago and he was amazing then, and he's only become even more refined, skilled and professional since. --Highly recommended! read more

Raul is truly a healer. I left feeling relaxed and more physically taller and more open after the session. I came in with a lot of knots and tension in my neck, upper-back, scapula, and upper chest area. His intuitive touch and pressure allowed me to lean into the discomfort and knots for relief in the most relaxed and fluid way. This is beyond a massage, but a realignment of the physical and mental if you allow it. Raul is an amazing bodyworker and intuitive healer. I highly recommend his services if you are seeking relief. read more

Bottom line: go here! Raul is one of the best massage therapists ever - he's incredibly tuned in to the body and immediately hones in on your problem areas. He stays laser focused for the whole session and keeps great pressure throughout. His studio is small, in the back of a yoga studio, but very well appointed, with a lot of stylish touches, and his massage table is the most comfortable, cushy, with soft linens and blankets, and can be heated if you want. If you're looking for a real therapeutic massage and like trigger point or deep tissue massages typically, try Raul. If you like Swedish massage or are looking for a relaxing, spa like experience, this might not be for you. Rual practices many styles though and will tailor the session to your needs. read more

Really, the reviews below say it all!! Raul is a healer. He has tons of knowledge about the body and really pays attention to his clients specific areas of need. I recommend him for people who are in need of an active healing session and pain relief! read more

Every touch is meaningful. Raul has such attention to detail. He listened to my concerns and then honed in on those areas. He told me beforehand that he would be spending a designated amount of time on those particular areas and would most likely not have time for the lower body. I was fine with that as I knew I needed deep shoulder neck and face/scalp attention. But I appreciated him telling me so I knew what to expect and also it gave me the opportunity to change my request. He talked during the session to give me directions or to give a bit of information on what I could do at home. But it was minimal and helpful. (Unlike this hour massage I had a few years ago, where the primarily mandarin speaking woman talked to me the entire hour in broken english). Raul gave me some exercises to do at home, that I have been doing every day since 2 weeks ago. I can feel my facial cheek muscles strengthening. He is an expert masseuse. His massage room is clean and peaceful. There was some type of peaceful music playing that was very relaxing. I highly recommend Raul. He is an asset to Alameda. His massage is definitely worth the money. Thanks, Raul! read more

As a professional carpet cleaner for 18 years, I have unknowingly been doing some damage to my lower back, and have become "out-of balance" by improperly lifting my heavy machine. The pain of my back injury put me out of business for a month. As a highly trained bodyworker, Raul knew immediately what the problem was (tension in the Psoas muscle) and what deep tissue body work would remedy it. Raul is highly knowledgeable, an excellent educator, and a patient and calm healing presence. I have the utmost confidence in him and I'm sure I will be back soon to keep my body balanced and moving fluidly and pain free! read more

I have only heard wonderful things about Raul and it turns out they are all true. Bit the bullet and made an appointment and I wasn't disappointed at all. i walked out feeling physically and mentally much better than I have in a long time. I will definitely be returning. Thank you Raul! read more

If I could give Raul 10 starts I would. He has helped me regain the mobility in my hip I feared gone for good. Just to be clear, bodywork is not a massage - it can be challenging both physically and mentally. But there is nobody I would rather be on this journey with than Raul. He is knowledgeable, patient and puts 1000% of himself into healing others. I cannot recommend him enough. read more

Raul is a wonderful healer!!! I had never done body work (as opposed to massage) before and the difference was fascinating! I still left super relaxed but like some important and deep shifts had been made. I'd been wanting to get a massage since my first son 2 years ago but it wasn't until my second 4mo ago that I finally made it happen (thanks to my husband!). I highly recommend following through as soon as you have the instinct! Your body and mind will thank you. Thanks, Raul! read more

My first session with Raul was profoundly helpful and has had lasting effects all week, as though whatever he did is already training my body to find ways to let go of stored tension. I plan to make regular visits and think it will be life-changing in helping me move beyond debilitating chronic pain. read more

I'm a massage junkie. I don't have the cash to go often, but when I do, I like it to be wonderful. I've had some great massages, but I've never met someone like Raul. I had a massage from him last year right before he left town on a big trip, and I was broken-hearted. He's back, and I'm so glad. He does intuitive bodywork. Before you roll your eyes at that hippie-dippie shit, let me tell you this: Before we started today, when we were still chatting, he asked me how my back was. I said fine, because at that moment it felt A-okay. His face changed a little, and a few minutes later, I admitted that my lower back has been bugging me lately. He looked relieved. "That's what I thought," he said. When Raul works on you, it's as if he waves his hand over you and listens to some silent frequency, and then he zeroes in on the places where you're holding tension. It's impossible to overstate how good he is at this. Then he leans in and pushes the tension out of you, talking you through it. I'm not a gal who likes a lot of chit-chat during a massage, but you know what? Raul is amazing. Within the first fifteen minutes of my session today, we'd figured out something that's been tripping me up emotionally for about a month. He's a combination masseuse-therapist, I swear to God. Another wonderful thing is that during a 90-minute massage, you are IN YOUR BODY for 90 minutes. You know how your mind wanders to your parking meter during savana in yoga? Or how you think about whether you'll get tuna or chicken at lunch as the masseuse works on your quads? There;s no time for that with Raul -- with his guidance, you are working with your body as much as he is. I can't recommend him highly enough. I just hope you don't take my time slot with him. read more

Let me just begin by saying that I am not the kind of lady who would generally seek out a male to get a massage from. Nothing against the less-then-fairer sex, it's just that the idea of laying near naked on a table with a guy who's not my BF touching me is generally the opposite of what I consider relaxing. With that being said, however, I felt the need to share with you, dear reader, of my trans-formative experience with one Raul Castro. Upon my first visit (a house call to my Hayes Valley home), I was nervous. I went out on a limb to express my reservations and was met with empathetic understanding (What? You're not insulted that I am stereotyping your gender? Not at all). Fast forward two hours, I couldn't even see through my bliss to find my skepticals, er, spectacles. Putting words to the pleasure of this massage is like trying to describe the liberating sensation one feels when stopping in Coalinga on I-5 (think about it, what would be the ONLY reason you might stop in Coalinga?). Nourishment in an otherwise barren wasteland, relief when you needed it most, a breath of fresh air, a pause from the literal fast track of life. I didn't even realize how fast I had been driving until I slowed down enough to book another session. Six massages later, I haven't reached the finish line and frankly I don't want to. Raul has strong hands, intense intuitive ability and a professionalism that has long since put any doubt to rest (stop--okay I'll stop). He has completely transformed my idea of "the male massage therapist" (not that I'll be trying someone else anytime soon). His prices are fair and he will go out of his way to accommodate your schedule. I feel comfortable communicating with him (none of that laying face hoping they "figure it out"...though I think I've maybe spoken two words since we've been working together: "Can you do that thing to neck? Yeah. Perfect.) In the days following my massage, I feel light and free. Yoga is easier, dancing is sweeter, birdies sing. No really. Take it from me, a fairly foxy 25 year old gal with a FULL and busy life, Raul's abilities and trustworthiness will far eclipse your expectations of what a massage should be. Making time to see him regularly has made a huge difference in my life. I wouldn't take my body anywhere else. read more

A true, humble healer. I have been seeing Raul for more than 3 years. The very first time I met him for a 40 minute massage through my work, he held the space so completely that I was able to release an incredible amount of grief that I'd been holding and he was right there with me, didn't even skip a beat despite not knowing me from Adam. I continued to see him for several years intermittently until I could no longer see him through my work's subsidized massage program, so I decided I needed to get a longer, full massage at his studio. The first two hour session I had with him at his studio was so wonderful, it felt like a half hour! As to his technique, Raul is firm and sensitive, and always learning and applying new techniques. As for the space, Raul's attention to detail in his studio is wonderful. Everything is conducive to letting go. I could go on and on, but basically have zero hesitation to recommending Raul to anyone looking for a massage therapist who sees beyond the body and has a sensitivity to the whole energetic system of a person with true humility and service to healing. read more

I've been reluctant to write this review for one reason: if everyone finds out how much Raul can help them, I may never be able to get another session. I had major surgery last year, which took a serious toll on my body. Raul was able to not only relieve a lot of pain, he was able to explain to me why I wasn't able to do the things I wanted, and suggest how I could strengthen the muscles I needed to do those things. He found the source of discomfort, and made me feel much better. One thing I really like about Raul is he gets right into the muscle; he doesn't just rub the surface. This can be uncomfortable, but is tremendously effective, but don't worry; if it is too much, just let Raul know. He won't hurt anything. A lot of people (like I did) might worry that a massage is too much of a luxury. I found the opposite -- by lessening (and in some cases eliminating) the pain, Raul has helped make me more productive. I heartily recommend Raul. read more

I went to see Raul for a sprained ankle that was causing me to walk/lurch around awkwardly and thus, various other parts of my body started seizing up... my calf, quad, hip, rear, lower back, shoulders and neck!? To make matters worse, all this body tension had caused me to have a nasty headache for a week. I'm one day post massage a la Raul Castro, and my headache is completely gone. While my ankle is still sprained (Raul is not a witch doctor) it feels more fluid and I'll be a bit more confident out on the trails with my dogs today. Couldn't be more grateful! read more

I was in Alameda for three weeks after a stressful and challenging period of months on the road traveling for work and family reasons. I booked one session as a 'treat' to see if I could get some relief and respite from the dread "tense neck and shoulders" from working hunched over a computer. After the first session I booked as many more as I could afford before I was due to leave the state, and wished I could have had more. I have received many hundreds of massages in my life with probably almost as many therapists given how much I travel and move around. Raul is one of the very best practitioners I've ever had work with me (honestly, top 1-3 easily). His technique is great and he is also a very kind and lovely person. I felt very nurtured at a time when I really needed it. And his music selection is beautiful... softly played Chet Baker AND Nina Simone mixed with swishy ocean sounds during one session - I couldn't believe my luck ;) read more

I read all the 5-star rave reviews a few weeks ago after moving to Alameda and bookmarked Descano for a to-be-determined future visit... and today was that day! My office buidling was evacuated today, an event worthy of 2 firetrucks and a hazmat team showing up. Any Monday productivity was shot, and our CEO sent everyone home. As I came back home in the early afternoon, I thought to myself, maybe this is a sign from the universe that I better use this time to take care of myself and get that massage I have been wanting since my move. When I called Raul, I was lucky -- he had a cancellation. Raul charges $115 for a 2 hour massage! I took a short drive to Raul's place -- before I found his home studio, I hesitated a bit, thinking to myself that maybe I shouldn't have been so impulsive, but my hesitation fade quickly away after I met and talked with Raul. The studio he had set up in the backyard was very professional as well as quiet. I have had massages before, but I have to say that he released aches the tightness that I didn't even know I had! My body got worked in ways that I haven't experienced before with spa massages. I now know what the difference between bodywork and massage is! I was so impressed that I purchased a massage for my husband before I left. read more

Who knew that for $50 I could get the massage of my life? I've had dozens of massages over the years, but never one that made me REALLY want to go back on a regular basis. Anyone in the EB should really try this...heaven! ... and if I can keep raving about this massage, I will! I was mildly concerned as I've not been massaged by a man since my first one ages ago, and it was completely comfortable with no weirdness whatsoever, so I appreciated that very much. :) read more

This man is a true Healer. I was experiencing increasing pain in my leg and at the point where I could barely walk, I searched and found Raul Castro. He understood the muscles and after an hour of his bodywork on me, I walked out of his studio pain free and a month later, I am still without the pain! I cannot give him enough praise! read more

Go here soon and often, and check this guy's swing band out (I am-- April 16th at the Verdi Club). I've had a lot of massages, but none as thorough or painstaking as the 2 hour intro one I had with Raul Castro, who, ironically, is not Cuban. The intro goes for a steeply discounted price--$100 or so. Each session is two hours, which, actually I appreciate. He is a skilled body worker, and interested in long-term muscle and stress relief. I cannot wait to return. Plus, I may take up swing dancing. read more

Long overdue review. I go running to Raul whenever I am immense pain and nothing helps. By the end of a session I am so relaxed and renewed that I feel woozy! ( a good woozy) Raul operates in his private studio which is located behind the Yoga station. I also want to emphasize that he is behind a karate studio and they can get very loud. I intitially thought this would be a problem but turned out he is so good at what he does that its not even something you'll focus on. This is coming from someone who can hear a fly from a mile away. Go to him, you wont regret it!! read more

I recently had a massage with Raul. He is no doubt worth 5 stars, more if there were more to give. I have had many massages over the past 20+ years and Raul is one of the best. He knows his anatomy and has a way of working with the muscles to release long built up tension. I have had ongoing hip pain and have seen massage therapists over the past year to address this, and with one session, Raul's work made a huge dent where others had not. I have more mobility in my hip and the results are still lasting over a week later. I am a sports acupuncturist, and I can say I will be referring all of my patients in need of body work to Raul. read more

I've been to see Raul several times for issues ranging from mobility limiting muscle injuries to just needing to relax and unwind. I've never been disappointed, expect for when my time was up. He has an uncanny ability to listen to what your body needs when you may not be able to adequately express it yourself. I won't go anywhere else if I don't have to. read more

Words cannot express how deeply grateful for Raul to come into my husband's and my life. For years he had suffered from severe low back pain and over all hip tightness. Seeing someone you love in pain is never easy to take and with a glowing recommendation we had to try! After just his first visit he left Raul studio feel like a new man! I couldn't believe it! Ever since that day he has been back for Raul's expert touch. I too needed to seek his expertise with a pain in my knee and WOW is all I can say! The next day I took a yoga class and never felt so good...and pain-free! Lastly, his healing hands and kind heart is like no one I've ever known! read more

I am so grateful to Raul for giving me an amazing prenatal massage prior to my delivery! I was 3 days past my due date and feeling very ready to have my baby. Raul gave me a massage on Tuesday evening and the next day things started moving quickly. Our baby girl was born the following day weighing 7 lbs. 3 oz. and 20 inches long. She is the greatest gift we could've ever hoped for! A healthy, beautiful angel sent straight from heaven. My labor went very fast, 14 hours total and only 13 minutes of pushing. I truly believe that the massage helped open and prepare my body to deliver this wonderful life into the world! I can't recommend Raul and his prenatal massage enough. He is truly an expert and can help you + baby prepare for labor!! read more

Wow!! I have to say that I am so pleased, I feel just amazing! Today I had the absolute pleasure to have some much needed body work done on me by the fabulous Raul Castro!!! I recently got into a really bad accident, went through surgery and have been pretty bound to my bed. My muscles and body aches have been through the moon. With the help of Raul's knowledge and healing hands I am grateful! Thank you again! I will definitely be back! read more

The work that Raul does is healing and therapeutic. I have had a number of issues with my body for many years that I thought I had to live with. After four sessions with Raul, my body feels better than I thought it ever could. It's extremely powerful work and it's not always easy. It can be intense, but it is authentically healing, and I can't express how happy I am to be working with Raul. The first time he put his hands on me, I knew that I could trust him. He truly is gifted and works with you on getting to the heart of healing. I can't find enough words to express it, but if you are struggling with pain and movement issues, go see Raul. He will help your mind, body, and spirit. read more

I've been a massage therapist myself for 14 years and can be quite picky about finding bodywork that is satisfying and also truly effective. Raul is so specific, focused and 'care'ful in his work. He has literally almost erased pain after some sessions and I leave on a spiritual, as well as physical level, incredibly better than when I came in. His massages are truly beyond any level of expertise than others I've experienced and he really cares about his clients. I'm so thankful to have found him! read more

Raul is a fortunate being who has discovered his life's calling and is sharing it with the world. He has a genuine gift for massage. It a dis-service to call his work "massage"; it is truly body work. My experience with Raul was the most transformative massage of my lifetime - and I have been getting massages consistently for 20 years. He read and listened to my body's needs. As a result, painful energy that had been deeply stuck within my body for a long time was finally released. The work he did with me not only restored balance to my body, but also to my heart. I didn't even realize how tense my body was until Raul helped to un-bind me. And, let me tell you, after the massage, I went home and slept for 10 solid hours. I awoke feeling like a new woman! I am so grateful! His massage studio space is lovely and filled with excellent energy. It's a peaceful oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of The Bay Area. Additionally, Raul is a wonderful person with a beautiful heart. I highly recommend utilizing his talents!! read more

I've been seeing Raul/Descanso Massage for about a year and I'm finally ready to let y'all in on the best kept massage secret in the East Bay. I've had lots of massages, even physical therapy, and his Compression Therapy technique is the ONLY thing that got rid of the horrible knots in my neck & shoulders from too many tense hours at a desk. Don't be dissuaded that he works out of his home, it's very professional and the massage studio set up in his backyard is as lovely as any high-end day spa. Raul also does out-calls; he massaged me and my bridal party in our hotel as we got ready for my wedding and I was so relaxed walking down the aisle! read more

Raul is a most beautiful human being. I felt immediately safe and nurtured in his presence, even before the body work began. Raul took time to talk and get to know my needs, wants, and hopes for the healing session before the massage began. As I entered his healing studio it was like i was entering a warm and cozy cocoon. The colors, the warmth, the sounds of water and peaceful music, and a delicious aroma of scents all played a part in the experience. Raul's healing touch, patience, and compassionate spirit led me through a journey of years of emotions stored within my flesh and bones. This was only the first of many healing sessions with Raul that I will treasure. The world is blessed to have such a talented and compassionate soul sharing his healing intuition with us all. I highly recommend Raul to all. read more

Anyone who can make me be still for an hour and a half deserves some sort of award. I felt very safe in Raul's hands. He's very intuitive, but also checked in with me throughout the massage in a very unobtrusive way. After the massage, I felt rested and full of energy, which carried through for the next week. Amazing. He was also able to tackle a very tough spot that's been bothering me for quite some time. I highly recommend Raul, and, unless I move far, far away, he'll be my go-to guy for years to come! read more