NYC Healing and Massage

Feb 06, 2024

I am trying to book an hour but I can’t in person or email or phone

Feb 06, 2022

Absolutely amazing body worker! I came with a broken hand, which underwent full reconstructive surgery and caused not only a complete loss of mobility in my hand and wrist but also severe pain in my neck, back and shoulders. JR worked with me for several months and I now have almost complete mobility in my hand, my wrist is 100%, and the pain in my back and neck are no more. He taught me self-healing techniques, and built a treatment plan that I am able to use to heal myself between sessions and as frequently as I can find time for. His massage is not like anything I've ever experienced, it was more like a form of "non-invasive surgery" where he used his hands and my own body's strength to "undo" the scar tissue that had been causing me an inability to use my hand... his knowledge of movement and anatomy are inspiring! Very different than the excruciating physical therapy (that had sadly failed to resolve my issues), the experience of healing with JR was almost pain-free (keep in mind I was in agony before we met). James is a gifted and fantastic therapist and an true expert in his field. I am eternally grateful for having met and for our work together.

Feb 06, 2022

Very good massage, just commute to this place for me is not preferable.

Feb 06, 2021

I saw James last year for my debilitating sciatica pain. At my first appointment I was impressed by his incredible attentiveness and empathy. At every turn, he explained what he was doing and why. I soon discovered that his skills and knowledge were of equal proportions to his watchfulness. Trust is not an easy thing for me, especially when it comes to my body, but he quickly gained my confidence. He really cared about my situation and approached my problem holistically. He is a deep reservoir of knowledge, who understands the mind-body-nutritional connection. During our past year of working together I am on a much better path to long term health. My sciatica pain has been completely manageable for many months, and he is currently advising me on ways to strengthen my body so I can live a longer, happier, pain-free life. Simply put, James is one of those professionals that takes the guesswork out. He makes it easy, because all one has to do is listen.

Feb 06, 2021

James was a life saver. As a professional dancer who recently moved to the city, I had been looking for someone to add to my team of specialists to keep my body in a good place. Every time I have called him with a crisis physically he has done his best to fit me in the day I call, and prioritizes my physical health. Not only is James dependable, he also works magic. I have come to him with several issues, and each time he has ensured I am walking out of the room feeling better. I have come to him with back issues, knee issues, pulled hamstrings, etc.. As a dancer, I am very particular with whom I work with and James is my go-to here in New York for sure!

Feb 06, 2021

James was fantastic! I recently had a baby and have had issues with my back and hips. James was able to mix traditional massage techniques as well as stretching and pressure points. I will be going back for sure! He was able to make me feel comfortable and relaxed as he worked though my body. Great energy and a great soul!

Feb 06, 2021

When NYC started opening up after COVID, I immediately wanted someone to help fix all the back pain I had. I been to numerous doctors over the years, and tried everything to get rid of the pain. Just one session with James has helped me tremendously. His office is a super safe environment and he takes serious precautions against COVID. Highly recommend James as he helped with your pain internally and externally.

Feb 06, 2021

james was awesome! I went there in desperate need of shoulder work and he completely healed me in an hour!

Feb 06, 2020

A stretch for my budget but worth every penny for my back pain and arm nerve issues. The owner was very helpful with explaining what he was doing and even taught me some stretches to take home. We had a good chat on wellness and I learned a lot.

Feb 06, 2020

Exceptional service provided by James. He truly understands his art and he took care of my back pain like magic.

Feb 06, 2020

I immediately felt relief in my back after the massage, even as soon as I was putting on my shoes to leave! James is great and he really gets to the root of the problem rather than work on the symptoms.

Feb 06, 2020

I started going to see James about two months ago when the back pain I’ve been experiencing on and off for over a decade grew so frequent and severe that I was missing a lot of work and also life. For all of that time I had constant at least mild to moderate aches and discomfort, which increasingly and for longer periods of time was becoming completely debilitating. I’ve tried many things in the past from pain meds and muscle relaxers (which might provide temporary relief but left me pretty useless during that time) to various spa massages, stretching techniques, and yoga (which were fine for mild aches and pains but had no effect or were impossible to do when it got severe.) From the very first session I began to feel relief and now I experience virtually no severe pain and very little of the mild aches and discomfort that I previously had 100% of the time. Even having tried some highly recommended, upscale (and EXPENSIVE) places, I had never had a REAL massage until I went to James. His knowledge of the body and its interconnections is incredible, and for the first time I really think I might reach a place where I don’t have to worry every time I make plans that I might have to cancel due to unexpected pain, and I can feel normal almost all of the time. Before, I had just accepted that I would live my life with chronic pain that would only worsen as I grew older. I know that when you feel that way it is easy to give up, but I truly believe he would be able to help anyone no matter how severe or complicated the case. Do yourself a favor and make an appointment now!

Feb 06, 2020

I started seeing James around five years ago when my body was holding a lot of stress due to a bicoastal life and a challenging relationship. I had never met a massage therapist who sat and talked prior to the session and I found it added a whole other layer to the healing process. And then there is the fact that James just has the best energy around! The minute you walk into his space you can feel it in the air and you leave with some of that energy after your session. I always do the 90 minute massage with Reiki and I always leave feeling like a whole new person. James Ruff is an amazing soul and a gifted healer.

Feb 06, 2020

I’ve been seeing James for rheumatoid arthritis pain the past two months, and he has been extraordinarily effective. Yes, he’s expensive, but I have seen dramatic improvement in the way my body feels, and he has developed a targeted exercise program which allows me to continue to build strength and flexibility and to decrease joint pain. James is a caring, compassionate professional, extremely skilled at body work, and he's totally attuned to the person he's working with. I cannot recommend him highly enough. He’s simply phenomenal.

Feb 06, 2020

James Ruff is hands down the best massage therapist in NYC. His professional and holistic approach takes massage therapy to another level of healing. He makes sure to design a treatment that is customized to your personal needs, not selected from a pre-existing menu! I went to see him for a lingering back pain since pregnancy and painful trigger points from overall PTSD. Not only did he deliver an excellent massage with immediate pain and tension relief, but he also made sure to show me great breathing tips and stretches to incorporate in my regular routine. The massage always feels like a session of physical therapy and deep relaxation combined. James Ruff is truly talented and cares about his clients’ well-being and long-term healing, a true gem. Can’t recommend him enough!

Feb 06, 2020

James has completely changed how I'm able to move around in the world and what I'm able to do. His knowledge of the body and injuries is way beyond anyone I've dealt with in 15 years of trying to recover form a serous accident. I cannot recommend him enough. Best money I've spent on my health and well-being by far!!

Feb 06, 2020

James is a great massage therapist. Very knowledgeable and motivated to help you reach your goals, whatever they may be. He has recommended me effective stretches and exercises to do on my own, which is significant because it’s the regular upkeep (“homework”) we do on our bodies that has the largest impact on our outcomes. Periodic massages are a great supplement, but due to perverse healthcare incentives in the US it actually is in a therapist’s best interest to keep you coming back by not recommending “homework”. So it speaks to James’ character that he values your best interests and thus recommends the things that are best for you but go against his business bottom line (short term at least, I believe what goes around comes around :). Highly recommend.

Feb 06, 2020

James is a truly gifted healer and massage therapist. He is incredibly open and communicative and individually tailors his work to your needs. I would highly recommend him to all.

Feb 06, 2020

James is an excellent massage therapist. But he is much more than that. He is also an excellent listener, he is completely present and he is deeply knowledgeable and wise about all dimensions of wellness. He has helped me both with knee pain and with anxiety. I always leave with my pain eased and a deep sense of calm, as well as with ideas and tools for increasing wellness.

Feb 06, 2020

James is one of the best, if not the best massage therapist and body worker I’ve ever met. While I was living in NYC, I was a regular client. James is intuitive and skilled. He doesn’t follow any manual, but rather customizes treatments to the clients need on the day. No session is the same. I was so inspired by James’ ability in bodywork that i asked him to give me some lessons. Once I moved to London, i went on to receive my license in sports massage therapy. I credit much of the foundational knowledge and the way that i approach massage to him. I would refer my nearest and dearest to this man as he has an innate gift.

Feb 06, 2020

This was truly a healing experience! I've been dealing with some on-going hand/elbow and leg pain and have been searching for ways to understand the issues better as I find ways that help me heal. From the beginning, James took the time to understand exactly what was going on, gave explanations as to why it could be happening and then provided and taught me long term relief techniques and exercises to continue to work on. And, after 1 session, I'm already noticing improvements. Looking forward to going back!

Feb 06, 2019

After having two brain surgeries this summer, I was seeking out someone who could work on my skull, neck and shoulders to relieve the pain I was experiencing in my neck and shoulders. I started with James with the intent to just meet that initial goal, however what has come out of it has been a life changing experience. I never would have thought that such a massage would evoke emotion and the responses I've experienced. I didn't understand what was happening to me and James has carefully walked with me down a path of nurturing and self realization. It's been extremely incredible and something I would never had pictured myself embracing in any way. I've learned that the human body holds pain and that finding an appropriate release is healthy. My body is responding wonderfully and my being in this physically vulnerable state has enabled me to embrace a path of healing on many levels.

Feb 06, 2019

After years of struggling with chronic headaches, and trying countless therapies, I finally found my way to James -- and I'm so grateful that I did. James is an incredibly talented and deeply knowledgeable massage therapist, and has provided an entirely new framework for me to understand my pain and approach self-healing. For the first time in a long time, I feel significant improvement. What's more, I feel empowered by what I am learning. Highly recommended!

Feb 06, 2019

I had a recovery plan. After the plan fell apart a good friend recommended James. I'm recovering from skin removal surgery after a 225lb weight loss. I have 70 inches of scarring on my 5' tall self. Every week I have unique experiences with my body. James has become a navigator as I pilot my recovery journey. He creates an ideal environment for healing. He listens, really listens to your words and your body. His voice is calming, his energy is comforting, and his heart is genuine. My treatment plan includes yoga, massage, myofascial release, skin rolling and pain management. James has magic hands and is a gifted healer. He understands the relationship between body, mind and spirit. He is passionate about healing and living pain free. James is an amazing teacher. He is generous with knowledge and communicating his experiences. I can assist in my recovery in total confidence because of his guidance. No matter how intense my session is I leave feeling relaxed and satisfied. Peace of mind is priceless and having James as part of my recovery plan provides a stress free road ahead. I'm forever grateful.

Feb 06, 2019

James has truly changed my outlook on just about everything in a positive and wholly beautiful way. Grateful would be a understatement for the experiences I continue to have when I am in session. I suggest his services to anyone looking to change their lives for the better. Whether the issue be anxiety, depression, etc...the perspective that this particular practice gives is profound. I am constantly reminded throughout my day of what I’m learning because of NYC Healing and Massage. Everyone should experience the process.

Feb 06, 2019

James is a gifted healer. His knowledge of the body is extensive and when he doesn't have the answer for your pain, he researches the causes and conditions that could have triggered them. Without question he is the top body worker I have ever worked with.

Feb 06, 2019

James is a highly intuitive and gifted healer. I was happy to find that our session was just as much about the mind-body connection and the intricacies of how we hold and release emotions and patterns, as it was about relieving stress and pain. Highly recommended!

Feb 06, 2019

James is gifted healer he truly understands how to connect your mind body and soul . He both has a knowledge of the spiritual, emotional and physical aspects of life. He knows and understands how to connect you to your body . He has a way of teaching that makes you love your self on a higher level. He teaches you how to truly feel impowerd on your own and appreciate all the gifts he has to offer as a healer. I’m grateful that he’s a part of my journey.

Feb 06, 2019

The best massage in New York awaits you below the hands of Mr. James Ruff. As a business owner dealing with the daily stresses of trying to survive here on this island, I came to James for help and left feeling completely relaxed, peaceful, and rejuvenated. Much more than massage occurs here -- James Ruff is remarkably present and aware, as if he can see straight through you to your soul. Now I understand why he is known as a Massage Therapist and not a masseuse, because what he offers is truly therapeutic. You can tell that he really cares, a true rarity in this city. I don’t understand exactly how the Reiki works, but I do understand that it does work as the heat and energy that I felt even before he touched me was profound. Not only did my body feel 1000 times better than when I arrived, I also felt that my soul had been bathed in warm light and cleansed of worry. There is wisdom and expertise here in what seems to be a very very old soul.

Feb 06, 2019

There are times in life when people arrive at just the right moment. James is one of those people. I was suffering from a 'frozen shoulder' for over a month that was caused by anxiety, stress, and over-work. The pain severely restricted my movement and further deepened my depression. I found James after carefully researching options in New York that most resembled Zentherapy, a mixed healing practice that I spent the last ten years following back in the Bay Area. It was very clear from the get-go that time with James was not going to be like any other body work session. Before he even worked on me, we spent time talking about my condition, pain, challenges, and what I hoped to get out of my sessions. It was, during that first conversation, that I realized what a strong healing and calming presence James has. At that moment, I was so relieved to have found someone that I could share my story with and know that he only has my well-being at heart. He crafted a program for me that has served as the catalyst in my effort to re-learn a balance between mind, body, and spirit. I've had numerous sessions with James and his trigger point technique is excellent. With his help, I'm also learning what it's like to open my energy pathways and in particular release long-held pain through his vocalized sound therapy technique. I went in to have a 'frozen shoulder' fixed and received so much more in return. I highly recommend James for anyone who understands that true holistic healing requires an approach that only experience and wisdom can bring.

Feb 06, 2018

In just four visits, James has put me on the road to healing a bad hamstring that others haven't been able to figure out. He listens and then customizes a treatment program to fit an individuals specific needs. And he seeks to leave you with self healing techniques so that you can speed the healing in between appointments. I'm thankful for having found James and you will be too!

Feb 06, 2017

I’m so incredibly grateful for James. I didn’t quite realize just how much pain I had been suffering until after our first session and I began to feel better. James provides so much more than massage, he is an incredibly gifted teacher. Even from our first conversation, I realized that he was someone truly special, when he said we would work together to “get ahead of the pain, rather than always chasing after it” and he has remained true to that promise ever since. He has taken the time to pass on his in depth knowledge of anatomy and muscle physiology so that I can learn how to get benefit beyond our sessions with the exercises and stretches that he teaches. He has also shown such incredible kindness and compassion, looking to connect on an emotional level to provide a comprehensive healing environment unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. I’m confident that the profound changes I’ve begun to experience after a few sessions with James are only a signal of what to expect in the future.

Feb 06, 2017

James is a miracle worker! A true expert at his craft. Takes the time to listen to your body and understand how your life choices and experiences impact the energy, movement, and structure of your body. Wholistic, effective and kind approach to massage therapy.

Feb 06, 2017

James is hands down, the most talented and knowledgeable massage therapist I have ever seen. It took me a long time to find him, but I'm so glad I did! He is totally committed to his craft, and is constantly educating himself. When he told me once that he spent hours on the computer, on his own time, to research my condition so he could better help me, I was blown away. James is one of the sweetest, most caring, genuine individuals I have ever known, and he has helped me heal in ways that words simply wouldn't do justice to.

Feb 06, 2017

My experience has been one of safety and comfort. I've been able to express my fears and hopes in such a non-judgmental environment. I've struggled with some serious issues and James has created a space where I'm able to express myself. The environment is safe and the experience has been educational, eye-opening, and healing.

Feb 06, 2017

The hands of a poet, the mind of a healer. I have sought the services of James for more than 9 years. Simply put, he is the best massage therapist I have ever met. I have only praise for his professionalism, his kindness in assessing the work to be done, his attentive touch, his overall manner during our sessions. It may be that James is also an accomplished musician: all I can say is that he made music of the knots, the stiffnesses, the tiredness on my bones. I wholeheartedly recommend James; he is worth every penny and your body will thank you for days afterward.