Business Details
6 Years
experience
Expert Massage Therapy & Ancient Healing Techniques
Carino Massage was born from a transformative journey of healing and resilience. Founded by Johnny Ray Nelson, a Certified Massage Therapist since 1988, our practice blends modern therapeutic techniques with ancient Mayan and Papil Indian traditions. After a life-altering accident in 2003, Johnny rediscovered his ability to heal through the wisdom of a blind healer in El Salvador. This experience led to the creation of our signature Carino Massage technique, designed to heal the body, relax the mind, and restore spiritual peace. Our San Francisco Bay Area location offers a private, tranquil oasis where clients can escape daily stressors. We specialize in Swedish, Deep Tissue, Shiatsu, Sports, Reflexology, Thai, Pre/Post-Natal, Lomi Lomi, and Integrated Breathing techniques.Johnny's extensive experience working with chiropractors, physical therapists, and exclusive spas across California forms the foundation of our approach. We provide both in-office treatments and mobile services for clients in the Bay Area. By combining ancient healing principles with contemporary methods, we offer a unique wellness experience that addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Our commitment to personalized care ensures each session supports individual health goals while maintaining the highest professional standards.
Services
Swedish Massage
Deep Tissue Therapy
Thai Massage
Sports Recovery
Pre/Post-Natal Care
Details
- Year established: 2020
Highlights and features
- Certified therapist with 35+ years of experience in diverse modalities
- Unique integration of ancient Mayan healing traditions with modern techniques
- Mobile services available across San Francisco Bay Area
- Specialized treatments for physical therapy, prenatal care, and sports recovery
- Personalized approach combining multiple therapeutic disciplines
Services
Swedish Massage
Utilizing long, gliding strokes and rhythmic tapping, our Swedish massage promotes relaxation and improves circulation. Ideal for stress relief and muscle tension, this technique prepares the body for deeper work. Practitioners adapt pressure intensity to individual comfort levels while incorporating essential oils for enhanced therapeutic benefits.
Deep Tissue Therapy
Targeting chronic pain and muscle knots through concentrated pressure on connective tissue. Effective for postural issues and repetitive strain injuries, this technique requires specialized training in myofascial release. Sessions often include stretching recommendations for sustained results.
Thai Massage
Combining acupressure and assisted yoga postures to balance energy lines called 'Sen'. Clients remain fully clothed during this floor-based treatment that enhances flexibility and reduces stress. The practice incorporates Buddhist mindfulness principles for holistic wellness.
Sports Recovery
Customized treatments addressing sports-related injuries and performance optimization. Techniques include neuromuscular therapy, trigger point work, and joint mobilization. Designed for both professional athletes and active individuals seeking injury prevention strategies.
Pre/Post-Natal Care
Tailored sessions for expectant mothers using specialized positioning for comfort. Addresses pregnancy-related discomforts like sciatica and edema while promoting emotional well-being. Certified prenatal therapists ensure safe, effective treatments throughout all trimesters.
People
Johnny Ray Nelson
Certified Massage Therapist
35+ year Certified Massage Therapist trained in 8 therapeutic techniques. Survived a severe accident, studied Mayan healing traditions in El Salvador. Founded Carino Massage to combine ancient wisdom with modern therapy.
Questions
What is the Carino Massage Massage technique?
Carino Massage Massage combines Swedish, Deep Tissue, and Thai techniques with ancient Mayan healing principles. The method focuses on holistic wellness through physical manipulation and energy balancing.
Do you offer mobile massage services?
Yes, we provide home and office visits across the San Francisco Bay Area, including Newark, San Francisco, and surrounding communities.
How long are your massage sessions?
Standard sessions range from 60-90 minutes, with extended options available for customized treatment plans. Appointment duration depends on individual wellness goals.
What should I wear during treatment?
For most techniques, clients disrobe to personal comfort level with proper draping for modesty. Thai massage requires loose, comfortable clothing.
How do I book an appointment?
Contact us through our website or phone to schedule by-appointment-only sessions. We recommend booking at least two weeks in advance for preferred time slots.
Do you accept insurance for massage therapy?
While we don't directly bill insurance, we can provide superbill documentation for potential out-of-network reimbursement. Check with your provider for coverage details.
Reviews (7)
Claire Rochon
Oct 03, 2020
Report
Love love love this place!! Johnny Ray is magic. With my first good exhale I knew I was long overdue for a massage - I mean who knew your armpits could be tight?!?! Geez, I really needed that! He takes so much care and treats the body with respect and reverence. His hands are strong and work out all the kinks, but in addition to a great massage he creates a nurturant, peaceful environment - its so relaxing you can really just let go and trust that you will leave a better version of yourself than you walked in. I highly recommend this spot - youll be clamoring to go back - I sure am!!!
Megan Brenan
Sep 21, 2020
Report
Run. Now. Make an appointment with Johhny Ray. Seriously, hands down best massage I've ever had.
Been going to Johnny Ray for 10+ years and he is nothing short of AMAZING. I do not use this word lightly, but the best one word description of the experience of his massage is Godly. You feel so taken care of, supported, uplifted- physically and mentally. He has a talent I've seen in no other masseuse and a gift of reading bodies. His set is up is nothing fancy, but great location on Melrose in Weho and the space is super clean/safe. Do yourself a favor and book now, as he fills up fast.
Been going to Johnny Ray for 10+ years and he is nothing short of AMAZING. I do not use this word lightly, but the best one word description of the experience of his massage is Godly. You feel so taken care of, supported, uplifted- physically and mentally. He has a talent I've seen in no other masseuse and a gift of reading bodies. His set is up is nothing fancy, but great location on Melrose in Weho and the space is super clean/safe. Do yourself a favor and book now, as he fills up fast.
Maria Florescu
Sep 03, 2020
Report
WONDERFUL. Johnny, thank you so much for an amazing massage. You truly are so kind, great and so thoughtful. I really appreciate your Cario massage and can't wait for another session. I highly recommend Johnny if you are looking for a true massage experience. The space is super cozy and clean. Easy parking on Melrose. I will def recommend getting a massage package.
Victoria Avalon
Aug 13, 2020
Report
I highly, highly recommend Johnny Ray to anyone. Incredible healing soul who has always made me feel welcome and taken care of every time Ive come in over the past decade. Consistently the best massage out of any Ive had in LA.
Lovely In La
May 19, 2020
Report
Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality
The best professional in the business. Johnny is a true intuitive healer and the only person I trust for massage. He has helped alleviate my upper back/neck issues to help me get my range of motion back. Literally the best massage I have ever had. I leave there feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. I don't ever want to go anywhere else.
The best professional in the business. Johnny is a true intuitive healer and the only person I trust for massage. He has helped alleviate my upper back/neck issues to help me get my range of motion back. Literally the best massage I have ever had. I leave there feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. I don't ever want to go anywhere else.
Nikki Kaffee
Dec 08, 2019
Report
Just returned from a thoroughly relaxing massage from Johnny! He certainly knows the right pressure, soothing strokes, gentle stretches, breathing patterns and thought-provoking self-assuring responses to make any tight muscle, stressed mind or injured area relax! I feel refreshed to take on the world, prepared for a great nights sleep and reminded that self-care really matters. Thank you, Johnny for the attention my mind, body and soul needed! I will be back!
Charles R.
Sep 05, 2019
Report
Johnny Ray is the best massage therapist I've ever been to. I was asked what areas I wanted him to focus on, what pressure I wanted, and then was transformed into a most relaxing state. I definitely plan on going back. You've got to try it. I'm telling you, you will not be disappointed!
