For many years, I taught professional massage therapists, and I have a well-developed, educated sense of touch. A few years ago, I received a wonderful session from Stephen, and recently I returned for another. I told Stephen what my body was asking for, and he listened carefully. I was pleasantly surprised by the skill, creativity, and sensitivity of his touch. He has learned a great deal since I first saw him. For several days after the session, I felt sensations of aliveness throughout my body. Stephen's massage table is in the Castro, with easy parking nearby. He is warm and friendly, and he offers truly remarkable touch. Thank you Stephen. See you soon! read more

I've been meaning to update my 2020 review of Stephen for awhile, and just remembered, so here it is. I can't remember the exact date, but I know I have been seeing Stephen as my massage therapist for 27-28 years now. I'm updating because of the quality of his massage and in particular how his touch has grown more mature, better and better over the years. I have been through multiple strains, injuries, body pains, and what I value most is the quality of his touch, and his ability to intuit and sense areas of my body that need work. The best way to experience his work is to go in, he will ask about any particular aches, pains etc., and then let go and trust his seasoned experience. I never tell him what I want him to work on, unless I have an acute pain, because his intuition and skill are worth surrendering to. Sweet, kind, respectful - and the best touch of anyone I have tried for over 30 years. Occasionally in my travels I will book massages abroad in spas, or resorts. They never live up to Stephen's level of work. I'm also a former Zen shiatsu practitioner, and I know the moment a massage therapist first touches me whether they have 'the gift' or not. Stephen has the gift. He doesn't talk about his knowledge of the human body, he demonstrates it; occasionally he will say something about this or that particular muscle or tendon anatomically, but it is an aside almost. Look no further. He has a long history of bodywork, and he has internalized it in a very sophisticated way. Thanks Stephen for being my healer. read more

I had a lot of stress in my life when I started seeing Stephen. The knots in my neck and back were causing tremendous pain. Stephen knew exactly how to loosen some of the deep muscles and release the tension. He was kind and compassionate and I felt very comfortable in his hands. Thank you so much Stephen! read more

Where to begin! Everyone in my circle has been seeing Stephen for the past few years. He's hands down one of the best in the game at finding problem spots and fixing them. Recently I had a slew of aches and knots in my legs that Stephen worked through... The next day I set a personal record on a power lift I hadn't even really been training for. read more

I have been seeing Stephen for the last three years and can say that he is hands down the best masseuse I have encountered. Stephen is an adept, knowledgeable body worker who holds himself to ever higher standards of excellence and professionalism. He has helped me to work through a number of injuries and work related stressors, employing various modalities to aide me through the process. He also knows his limits, recommending me to a world class osteopathic physician when realizing that my injury was outside the scope of his specialization. He is too though still personable and compassionate as a person. I value our conversations and friendship. He has created a magical space in his massage room, with decorative lighting and sound, which adds to the overall experience. If you are looking for a massage, look no further than a booking with Stephen Pullis. read more

Stephen is the best massage therapist I've ever found, and I've been to MANY. He has the hands of a healer, and encourages you give him feedback on EXACTLY what you want. I've never left a massage feeling like it was quite perfect--until meeting Stephen, and that's why I see him every other week. Seeing him on a regular basis has done wonders for my posture, my headaches (now gone) and my overall sense of well-being. On the massage table, every time I feel like not only is my body getting worked on, but I'm able to truly relax (a rarity in this busy SF lifestyle) and think through big life stuff. Stephen has created a special sanctuary for body and mind here in the Castro, one that has become an essential part of my well-being, and I cannot recommend him highly enough. read more

Stephen is the most effective massage therapist I've ever been to! I've been going to Stephen for a few months now for a stiff upper back. Then, this morning, I got a crick in my neck and could barely move. I was luckily able to get a same day appointment with Stephen. In a one hour massage, he was able to reduce my neck pain by probably 90% and greatly increase mobility...now I can actually turn my head! He instinctually knows how to release muscle tension, and it feels like with every session my muscle stiffness is improving versus just temporarily feeling better (which has been my experience with most other massages). He seamlessly blends techniques and modalities to create a personalized, custom massage every time. On top of this, his starry space is magical, unique and relaxing, and Stephen is easygoing and friendly. I can't recommend Stephen highly enough! Thank you! read more

On my kid's birthday - to the hour she was born - I indulgently got a massage by Stephen. I can't think of a better way to celebrate making it through the trials of child rearing. Need I say more? Apparently, yelp thinks I do. So, ok. Stephen is -- Professional and welcoming. Knowledgeable and responsive. Attuned and aware. I've seen Stephen for about 6 mos, and I am more impressed (and more relaxed) after each visit. Stephen is the most skilled, most responsive, and most professional massage therapist I've seen. He greets me with a welcoming smile, patiently sits with me at the start to hear of any concerns, and always leaves me in a dizzying, zen bliss. My workouts have improved, my body feels strong and healthy, and I'm ready to tackle the next year with my kid! read more

My apologies Stephen that it took so many years for me to write a review :) I have been seeing Stephen for last 6 years. I injured my back in the gym couple of years ago and none of the other therapists were able to revive me back to health and there's this guy with his magic touch somehow helped me to get back on my feet just after 2 sessions. Since then we became such good friends. He is very knowledgeable and listens to his customers and very easy to work with. His place is super clean and the massage room is like little heaven with all those lights, music and those hot stones and an angel looking down on you (such a good feeling you get). I really enjoy the little conversations we have. Will see you soon my friend. Hands down the best therapist in the bay area!!! (trust me I looked). I would recommend Stephen. -Rahul read more

Stephen is a real healer. I have been going to him for full body massage for over 10 years now. He is consistently attentive to my needs, warm hearted, and does a wonderful job with various massage techniques, clearing energetic blocks, along with stiffness and swelling. I also enjoy his warm room, and calming music he plays while receiving massage. I highly recommend him for any about of time, it's worth every penny! read more

Stephen is very professional and compassioned therapist. His expertise is always right and after every sesion, I feel better and better. He was able to help me where no one could. If you need a good massage do not hesitate just make an appointment, you won't regret! read more

Stephen does indeed have healing hands. He pays special attention to spots you ask him to, but also knows from your body other places that need attention. I've gone to him for years and find him professional, affable, and expert. If giving a 6-star rating were possible, I would give him that rating. read more

I get a massage from Stephen Just about every week. He's compassionate gives 110% every time and I always feel relaxed and regenerative afterward. He's got 25 years of experience! Yikes! You've got to be doing something right if you've been massaging for 25 years. As a personal trainer and rock climber, I do a lot of physical activity. Regeneration is something I take as serious as my training. Stephen may very well be the reason that I have not had any non-contact injuries in the 2 years that I've been working with him. Any knots, soar spots, or tightness always improves after my visit. My favorite part about stephen is that he is very flexible. He's not the most knowledgeable therapist out there, but he is wise which beats knowledge any day. If he doesn't know something he'll find out for you. If he needs to research or look further into something he'll do that for any one of his clients. I may not have experienced Stephen's massage 25 years ago, but I'm sure he's aged like a European wine. Stephen does do a excellent job relaxing you and your body. If you want to prevent injuries, decompress, and/or free your day of stress talk to stephen and he'll take care of you. H read more

I can't believe it has taken me so long to write a review. I've been going to Stephen for over a year. I continually buy packages of massages, so I get a 90 minute massage every month. Buying a few long massages at once takes the price from from luxury to practicality. Stephen is a very warm person, who genuinely cares. He checks in often to see how you're feeling and will have a good conversation with you about what's going on in your life. I feel very comfortable having him work on me. Plus, the massage studio is a balmy 90 degrees and he often uses warm towels and blankets. My favorite part about Stephen is that he has big, strong hands. He's been performing massage therapy for decades, which seems like a rarity, so he has the techniques down, and he can apply a lot of pressure if needed. I love a deep tissue massage for my crooked back, and he's great at getting the knots out of my shoulders. He incorporates hot rocks to help out with this daunting task, which I love. Stephen's massage room is profusely decorated with stars, including glow in the dark ones on the ceiling. He gives you the option of resting for a few minutes after the massage, and once he turns the lights out you can see the ceiling twinkle. Cute. I highly recommend checking Stephen out. I don't know what I'd do without my monthly visit! read more

I have been seeing Stephen regularly for more than 4 years now. He has an ability to unlock sore, tight muscles in a way no other massage therapist has before. I thought about leaving town this weekend to get away from all of the smoke from the fires but I literally decided not to go because I had a massage appointment that I didn't want to miss. He's that good. He is a master of his craft and I recommend him highly. read more

Five trillion stars for Stephen and his amazing ceiling filled with infinite stars! I met Stephen a long time ago - back when people still related to one another and not their cell phones. To put it simply, and it's still true to this day: Stephen knows how to take the peace in the entire Universe and put it into your heart, mind, and body. After a massage from Stephen, I am so relaxed, that I could look at a concept like Dick Cheney or people who deny climate change without losing my composure. I'm totally serious. How could a mere mortal as I am be so fortunate to have met Stephen and still know him and be able to call him and arrange for this world-class, beyond-anything-describable massage with a very short notice? I must be dreaming. :) read more

I just had my second massage from Stephen F. Pullis. It was so relaxing -- exactly what I want a massage to be. Into the massage I told him that God worked through his hands. I don't know where that comment came from in me -- but it did just roll out. He was amused by it, and said that it would look good in a Yelp review. So, here it is. Maybe it was the hot rocks, the strong hands, the gentle voice, or maybe even the stars on the ceiling. It is, however, five stars from me for a Yelp review. read more

Very good bodywork. I went to Stephen when my regular guy was out of town. Stephen's hands were strong, his space was clean, atmospheric and restfull, and he's a nice, friendly guy. I have chronic neck pain, which Stephen's expert touch relieved! Though my regular guy is back in town, I have gone to Stephen again for extra work, and will continue to do so. read more

Stephen is best professional massage therapists in the area. I have received numerous massages by him because my partner recommended me to him. I am now convinced that he is the best. He is truly one of the best at what he does. read more

Stephen is an amazing massage therapist whom I've had the pleasure of knowing for many years. I rarely go to anyone else for massage as I've found the best there is! His technique is consistent yet but no two massages are every the same. His space is warm, clean and inviting. Highly recommended! read more

After 20 years of massages I can say Stephen Pullis remains one of the most the important massage therapists that is a must see whenever I return to San Francisco! read more

Stephen is simply the best massage therapist I have met in San Francisco over the last decade. My family is in the medical field and a lot of them are osteopaths or physical reeducation therapists. Stephen has tremendous experience overall but has this extra, uncanny ability to discover where you hurt, need help, are blocked, etc. He is also a super nice and calming person. I have sent quite a few friends to Stephen, who all were ecstatic about his skills. read more

My acupuncturist recommended Stephen and I am grateful I took the time for this nurturing experience on my recent trip to San Francisco. Stephen is intuitive, warm and engaging. My massage was rejuvenating and I felt like I released a boat load of stress. I liked the use of the heated stones. He took time to ask about trouble spots and helped with a couple that always need attention. Stephen obviously navigates with great care and compassion when he works. One of the better massages I have had. read more

Stephen is a consummate professional, but perhaps this word is not even sufficient: artist might be more accurate. Stephen is like a concert pianist who makes music on your back (not to mention neck, legs, and arms!) He continually dazzles me with the energy, focus, and technical skill he brings to massage. I would regard his massages as an essential component of my routine to stay healthy---I always leave his studio standing up straighter, with greater mobility in all of my joints and muscles, and completely relaxed from any stress built up during the work week. I have been going to Stephen for about 5 months now and plan for that to be just the beginning of many years of phenomenal massage. Already I have recommended him to my parents, close friends, and girlfriend, and everyone who has gone has gone away totally happy. I recently had a serious back injury that immobilized me for a few days; I knew I had to get to Stephen. After 3 days of agony I got across the bay and was not disappointed; in 1.5 hours Stephen took me from 60% to 90%, getting me back on my feet and able to enjoy my life again with almost no pain. This guy is magic. Not only are the massages superb, but Stephen is completely reliable: he gets back to me extremely promptly, we are always able to schedule something when I need it, and we always start on time. Stephen is someone who will truly respect your time. Finally, hIs location is great: in the heart of the castro, easy to get to and easy to be in, and his studio is full of unique character that enhances the total relaxation of the massage experience. Overall, could not recommend more. read more

I've been a client of Stephen's for many years and I can't conceive of going to any one else for massage. Stephen is a wonderful person and an amazing masseur. He is intuitive, caring and tailors each massage to what is happening with your body at that moment. There is no such thing as a rote massage with Stephen. Stephen provides a healing, nurturing, and professional environment and is simply the best there is!! read more

Stephen is the best massage therapist I have ever been to, and I've had a lot of massages. My mother agrees with me, and she has also had many massages. Other reviewers have mentioned his uncanny ability to find the tension (or, as he calls it, "crunchiness") and release it. Every massage he gives is unique because he uses this special intuition to help him figure out how best to help you in that moment. I always leave feeling refreshed and healthy, and this feeling stays with me and keeps improving with each massage. He also just gives off a vibe of truly caring. Can't recommend him highly enough. read more

I first started going to Stephen by my count, over 20 years ago now. I just had a session with him yesterday that reminded me of why he has been my only masseur for so long. I currently have some issue with my IT band on my right leg, and Stephen spent concentrated time on it, with various techniques in his toolbox, and created significant relief that I felt after the session and also today. I sit for my work several hours a day, and so he has also routinely and significantly reduced lower back, hips, and neck strain. His work over the years on my wrists and forearms has changed painful carpal tunnel symptoms to tolerable now and then discomfort. Stephen is professional, personable, and dedicated to working on whatever you bring him: highly intuitive, seasoned, and talented. I am a former masseur and have always been highly selective in body workers. I return to Stephen over and over because he has what I call 'the gift,' meaning, everything you need to know about a bodyworker's talent happens the very first time they put their hands on you. You can tell right away if they have the gift, or they are more a technician. Stephen has a sweet soul, and has made a significant impact on my well being. Don't hesitate, he's the real deal. He has the gift. read more

During a particularly stressful period in my career about 20 years ago, I began going to Stephen for massages and I have been a client of his ever since. He is gentle and capable. Invariably I am relaxed after I have visited him. As I tell friends, at this point, Stephen knows my body and its aches and pains better than I do. Let me also mention that Stephen is a genuine and nice person -- a really sweet soul. read more

Nice guy, nice location but he does whatever he wants, not what you ask. Kind of an older hippie guy. Not for everyone. He does more pushing and pulling and no expertise with Swedish. read more

Due to economic hard times, its been over a year since I got a massage from Stephen. However, tonight was my birthday and I treated myself. I had forgotten how truly talented and knowledgable Stephen is. His hands found places in my body that held tension and tightness of which I was completely unaware...and he worked out the kinks. His technique is a mix of so many traditions that he blends seamlessly into an incredibly healing and relaxing experience. He is also incredibly compassionate and kind -and respectful in any way. I HIGHLY recommend him to anyone needing bodywork or to give as a gift to someone you love! read more

Been going to massage therapists for 40 years plus and saw Stephen for the first time about two months ago. Have been back for treatment four times since. Stephen has really helped to loosen up my lower back and legs. He's got strong, capable hands, and he does great stretching for me. Great value for the money too! read more