The Tranquility Company

My initial thought when I first got off John’s table: Is this the first masseuse I’ve had who actually knows what he’s doing? That’s how transformative the experience was. So I’ve had the occasional relaxation and stress-​relief massage in the past (mostly while on vacation or when gifted to me; a couple of times after a marathon). And they’re nice, but they’re just not… this. As I started getting increasingly into weightlifting, I knew I could benefit from more muscle attention, so I specifically sought out a therapist that specializes in neuromuscular work and myofascial release. In the first fifteen minutes, I knew the work was going to be different; eg, he’d deftly locate a trigger point, then ease a limb back and forth at the joint while applying pressure to the point. It was clear he understood how the body «fits» and «works» together.
My first visits with John were at The Retreat. Since then, he and his wife have opened their own wonderful practice in South Durham with simple online scheduling, text message reminders, and seamless confirmations. The room is inside a yoga studio, but even when class is in session, it’s quiet, comfortable, and without interruption. Earlier this year I began struggling with serratus pain which was impairing my ability to perform certain lifts with the necessary weight, and also causing discomfort while sleeping and doing normal day-​to-​day things. In two sessions with focused work, the pain has nearly completely melted away. After these sessions, I’ve come off the table feeling totally wiped out (I can only imagine how John must feel!), and can tell the massage work has had effect and my muscles are really responding. There are also some techniques that I’ve never received elsewhere: I respond well to his neck release, a place I always hold tension, in particular; and here discovered the deliciousness of stretching and opening the upper pecs.
On top of his immense talent, there’s the fact that he’s just a genuinely great guy! I mean really. I’ve had zero other therapists follow up with me to inquire how my body is doing, or send stretching videos to help potentially address functional issues at the forefront. He’s passionate about his clients, and his work — currently studying for additional certifications, seemingly always expanding his knowledge. As I’ve told fellow gym bro’s (girls too!): If you need body work, you should come here. I can’t recommend it highly enough.