Announcements and Reviews

Presently, Moving Body Massage offers therapeutic massage sessions in Asheville, North Carolina. Please be in touch about setting up an appointment.

REVIEWS

Below you will find some reviews from Yelp, there are others when you link to the Yelp site, and on my Google page as well. 

Modes of Making 2025

I started with Joel in 2022 after a car accident and have remained under his singular care since. My first session, Joel spent time really listening to where I was feeling pain and tightness and I walked away from my first session feeling relief I wasn’t even aware I could experience. Beyond the car accident, I have chronic back, hip, and shoulder pain and Joel has continued to provide me with deep and long-lasting relief.  Unlike others, both in the medical massage realm and the large  realm of bodywork, Joel has a deep and intricate knowledge of the body and is acutely capable of addressing concerns and pains beyond where *I* think they’re emanating from, making expert assessments and locating the areas that are the roots of muscular malfunction and tension.  When Joel moved to his own private practice, I followed him without a second thought. I know that after every session, I will feel relieved and fully at home in my body again.  I’ve mentioned him and his work so frequently I had folks considering traveling from out of state to experience it for themselves.  Medical massage is a true craft with Joel, and he has mastered it. Beyond his skill, he has a comforting presence and a professional demeanor that assuaged any anxieties of deep tissue and full body massage from my very first session.  I could not recommend him more highly. Not only in the region, but in the field of medical massage at large, Joel stands supreme.

Brent 2025

I have received massage therapy in many states and worldwide and I can say, Joel is one of the best I have experienced! He takes time to listen, suggest and partner with you to get the most benefit out of every session. He has become an important part of my health regimen. I have referred others with certain physical concerns and all have become regular clients. If you are looking for a massage therapist with knowledge, skills, personality, interesting life experiences and grounded in caring for clients, then I highly suggest you schedule time with Joel. You will certainly be glad you did! Brent

Mallory 2025

Joel is an intuitive and thoughtful practitioner. If you want to feel amazing then book a session with him. He combines a variety of techniques in order to really personalize what your body needs. On top of all that he is just a really great guy. 10/10 recommend!

Sharon 2025

Joel is extemely knowledgeable in many healing and massage techniques.  He listens to what you need and aligns his massage or healing session to your needs.   I have known Joel for  few years and he has helped me tremendously with my knee and back issues.  Also, about 2 months ago, I woke up and could not lift my left leg from sleeping wrong.  I called him for an emergency healing session.  He immediately opened up time for me.   He checked up on me to see how I was doing.   Joel has a gift with knowing people, massage and deep tissue methods, and many healing techniques.  I highly recommend Joel.

Michelle 2024

 Joel did an excellent work and incorporated several forms of massage and therapy. He was able to identify my source of pain and discomfort. Joel also offered cupping while working on other parts of my body and felt like having two massage therapists!! Would definitely recommend!

Solange 2024

 I recently had the pleasure of experiencing a massage with Joël, and it was truly amazing. Joël has a remarkable ability to create a calming atmosphere, which immediately put me in a state of relaxation. He took the time to understand my specific needs and concerns and shared his background experience as a massage therapist, making me feel comfortable and relaxed.  He seemed to know exactly where I needed the most attention and applied the perfect amount of pressure. His professionalism and expertise were evident throughout the entire session, making it one of the best massages I’ve ever had. I left feeling rejuvenated and more in tune with my body. If you’re looking for a massage therapist who is not only skilled but also genuinely cares about your well-being, I highly recommend Joël. I will definitely be returning for more sessions!  Thank you.

Alexis 2024

  Joel is a very attentive and intuitive practitioner… providing incredible deep tissue therapeutic massage as well as cupping to alleviate problem areas on the body. I truly appreciate working with someone so adept in their field. Do yourself a favor and book a session!

 Charlotte 2023

 I was just coming out of surgery when Joel took care of me and it really was a special moment. He worked on a healing technique on my body focusing on the vagal nerve. The practice was fantastic, i really felt emotionally liberated, balanced vibrating and alive after it. Joel is the kind of person you really feel safe during the massage, he is really listening the body and the needs with a great kindness. He is grounded and you can really let go of with your feelings and emotions. Thank you Joel, i can’t wait for another session with you!

Julien 2024

  Joel is an incredibly skilled bodyworker -- one of the best I've had! When I work with him I feel safe and held to soften into the experience, trusting his intuition and thorough knowledge of anatomy and the body to bring me into greater balance and ease. He listens deeply to what my needs are and right away gets to work addressing tension and injury at the root. After decades of experiences with massage therapists and body workers with a variety of specialties I put Joel at the top of my list of skilled healers and recommend him to everyone I know!

 Ofri 2023

 I received a massage from Joel after a long week of hard kitchen work  at a retreat center The massage was relaxing yet deep and defined. In one hour I felt all the tension and aches melt off. Joel combines knowledge from different techniques of bodywork to create a great experience. On top of that he's very personable and respectful.

 Chris 2023

 I've worked with many fine masseurs over the years, including some at Esalen, and I tell you straight out that Joel is the very best. He has an extraordinary range of techniques which he applies with great sensitivity and originality. He has an uncanny ability to track problems to their source and clear them. With Joel you don't get a "standard massage;" you get time with a gifted healer dedicated to his craft and your well being. I've worked with Joel for over a year and a half and will continue doing so. I'm in my 70's and Joel keeps me feeling younger than I am.

Doon 2024

 TVM can be life changing if you have chronic tensions in the body that you want to release.  That has been exactly my experience here. I’ve done 4 TVM sessions now. The chronic tensions in my body that were the underlying cause of chronic anxiety, restlessness, and sleep problems are fading away. Overall, I am more relaxed and feel more like myself again after each session. I can feel my body shifting out of a fight/flight state more and more after each session. I plan on continuing with these sessions until these tensions are completely gone.

 George 2023

 As a retired clinical massage therapist, I am very careful about who I choose to work on my body. I received the best bodywork from Joel that I have had in many years. The extent to which he relieved stress in my muscles was impressive. His attention to the areas I requested was spot on and he took great care around areas where I have had injuries. I left his table feeling the best I have in months. Reserve a 90 minutes session. You will be glad you did.

 Igor 2023

 I don’t have a tremendous amount of experience receiving bodywork, always figured a “massage” does help the body and relieves stress and have enjoyed them before, but this is different (for me) and despite it sometimes getting to points of discomfort, Joel works through them with me and ultimately I leave feeling extremely refreshed. Other techniques such as cupping and more are done and it all adds to the experience and what I walk away from. However perhaps the best thing here is Joel himself as a person. He’s extremely professional, yet also personable and completely genuine. We chat before, during and after the session yet we can also just focus on the session. He gives me feedback on how I can take care of my body outside of these as well. Great person, great bodywork professional. Will be back and highly recommend Joel to all!

 James 2023

 Joël is able to customize massage and bodywork to what your body needs.  He listens to what you want and the feedback from your body.  Much better than one size fits all massage approaches.

Jayanthi. May 2019

 Do yourself a favor and book an appointment with Joel today. I have been seeing him for almost two years and he continues to work wonders on my body.  I can't recommend him enough.

I've given multiple family members gift certificates for his massages and it has always gone over so well. My sister has even booked multiple appointments with him since.

As a busy New Yorker who works a minimum of six days a week and travels all around the city, I can't begin to express how appreciative I am of what Joel does. I am a musician and carry countless bags and instruments while constantly standing on public transportation. No matter what part of my body ails me, Joel is able to work magic and make my body feel relaxed and work better. He also offers cupping and it is truly one of the most relaxing and rejuvenating massages I've ever experienced. His prices are great and you won't regret it.

Michele March 2018

   Joel is quite honestly the best massage therapist I have ever experienced and I have been to a lot of massage therapists.

He takes the time to understand both your physical ailments and activity levels in order to tailor the massage to address current issues while also preventing new ones from arising. He is professional, caring, and well educated in massage therapy. His rates are more than fair and he's got great stories!

I really cannot recommend him enough! Joel is THE BEST!

Dina

   As an avid massage client I can't speak highly enough of Joel! He knows exactly how to release muscle tension and find trouble spots. He listens to whatever concerns you have and tailors the session accordingly.
As someone who experiences chronic body issues, this work has been extraordinarily beneficial.
I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for an excellent therapist.

  Felishi

   I attempted to schedule a very last minute massage, and Joel wasn't available.  I ended up getting a massage from a "day spa" where the price is right and walk-ins can easily be accommodated.  Needless to say, I got what I paid for.  Joel followed up with a text the next day to make sure I was able to get some relief.  Who does that?  5 weeks later when the tension in my muscles started to build again, I made an appointment and yesterday, I got the best massage I've ever had.  I've had many, from really expensive spas to inexpensive massage joints.  Once in a while I've had a really good massage, but mostly they've been mediocre.  Joe took the time to talk with me to understand what my issues are and the massage was exactly what I needed it to be.  He was professional, highly skilled and obviously extremely knowledgeable about the human body.  He also has a great energy.  This is his apartment, and I wasn't sure what to expect.  But, it was very comfortable and Joel made sure I was happy with the temperature and the music before getting started.  When the massage was over, he showed me how to use a foam roller to target my problem areas.  There won't be any more random massage transactions, groupons or cold calls where I arrange for 60-90 minutes of bodywork and hope for the best.  Joe is now my massage therapist.

 1 Layla

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I chose Joel after reading the reviews.

I really enjoyed my session, Joel took the time to sit down with me and discuss how my body was feeling and the areas that needed attention. He really listens during that time and concentrates on those areas.

He also checks in during the massage to ensure that the pressure is okay and that everything is alright. I will be coming back.

2  Eric W

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This is one terrific massage. Joel spent time at the beginning of my visit going over exactly what I wanted from the appointment, and even more time afterwards explaining what he recognized as the trouble-points in my body. In between he worked out all the knots. Lots of pressure but never any pain; he knows what he is doing

This isn't a spa where you spend a lot of money on atmosphere and a mediocre back rub. Come to Moving Body if you want a real massage from somebody who knows his stuff.

3   Shawn G

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A massage was just the thing to work out all the kinks in my body after a grueling job search for the past few months.  Joel sat me down and asked a few questions about my physical health as well as my expectations and goals for massage.  I'm an avid cyclist, so he focused a lot on my neck and leg muscles, where I tend to hold a lot of tension.  He has training in physical theater, which I think helps him understand how the body works a bit better than average.  There's even a discount for first time clients!

4    Holly B

 Washington, DC

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I've been to a few studios in the DC area and Joel is by far the best. I need more of the deep tissue type. He puts in the right amount of pressure that endures through the whole hour but checks to make sure it's feeling alright throughout. His prices are very reasonable and he turns his home in to a relaxing environment. Every time I leave, I have full range of movement without the aches which gets me back out for more training. He is a must for anyone doing marathon or other serious training.

5   Hilton M

 Brooklyn, NY

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Fantastic massage. Joel is very communicative and responsive and creates a safe and relaxing space. His deep tissue massage is outstanding-- it is appropriately deep without making you feel beat up. And believe me, that is a tough balance to find. And thank the good lord he doesn't play that annoying Enya music and he was not insulted when I actually requested no music. Highly recommended--A++.

6      Kirstin M

 Washington, DC

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As the other reviewers thus far, I was blown away by the time Joel took to prepare for the session. We sat and discussed all aspects of my lifestyle so Joel could determine how best to use the hour. He listened to my responses carefully. Minor details that aren't always discussed (like what type of music I'd enjoy) are actually a huge bonus to the overall experience.  I never felt that we were rushed-- which is oh-so-important for a Sunday afternoon massage.

Joel's home studio is comfortable and safe, and in a great location. He has an incredibly professional and caring attitude.

Joel's hands are gentle, firm and strong. It is amazing how often we forget the importance of that sort of human touch.

I plan to be back for more!

7    Joy H

 Washington, DC

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Let me just preface this review by saying that I am a weird combination of a massage snob and a massage junky.  If only I had kept track of how many massages I have had...  hundreds, for sure.  I am definitely picky -- I move a lot so sometimes it takes me a little while to find the perfect therapist.  I usually end up going through five or six until I finally settle on someone I am willing to go back to.  It has been a long time since I have found a therapist where there was no settling involved, but I did!

I like deep tissue.  I need someone not just strong but really knowledgeable about what muscle does what and why and is able to properly diffuse that strength so that it doesn't hurt, but feels more like physical therapy.  Before we began Joel really took the time to find out what was going on with my body and what I wanted out of my massage.  I have had therapists in the past who have done this, but then they just go ahead and give their standard massage, not tailored to me despite all their inquiries.  This was not the case here - he was able to address all my issues during the session.  

The environment in his home feels very safe and relaxing.  Great location and parking is not a problem.

Second Review from Joy H.

For the second year in a row I have purchased a gift certificate for my dad for father's day. A massage is a great gift to give to those who really enjoy massage but can never seem to find the time - they usually manage to find it when presented with a gift certificate!

8       Lara

 San Francisco, CA

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I found Moving Body Massage on Yelp and was extremely pleased with the massage. I have a hard time finding massage therapists that can really give a good deep tissue massage that is effective without leaving bruises. Joel seemed very knowledgeable about anatomy and back/neck ailments (which I am currently suffering from).  He asked a lot of questions about where I was experiencing pain and really focused on those areas. It is a bonus that he is just a few blocks away from my home but even if he wasn't I would still go.

9      Kristen G

 Cheverly, MD

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Joel has an incredibly soothing presence that immediately puts you at ease when you walk into his cozy studio.  Always the consummate professional, he takes the time to really get to know you and your lifestyle so that he can properly address the areas of the body that need treatment.  Joel is a very intuitive healer and an engagingly  warm person, who also happens to have great taste in music, which adds to the ambiance!  I highly recommend Moving Body Massage.

10   Kenny H

 Washington, DC

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Awesome.  Best massage ever!  I'm usually shy, ackward and nervous with massages, but Joel was really cool.  I felt at home

11    Steve P.

 Silver Spring, MD

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I was a client of Joel's for nearly two years when he lived in DC, and he is the best massage therapist I have ever had.  He paid attention to my neck and shoulders, where I carried a lot of stress, and our regular appointments helped to relieve stress as well as prevent injury as my job requires a lot of physical movement.

He was the consummate professional, ensured that the ambiance was relaxing, and was always thorough.  He used just the right amount of pressure, and I always left feeling much more relaxed than when I first arrived.

I was sad when he relocated to New York City and was able to squeeze in an appointment when he was in town recently.

Joel puts his clients first and is very flexible schedule-wise.  If I lived in New York, I would schedule weekly appointments with him