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Ryan Lee Healing
Category: Health and Medical Doctors Naturopathic/Holistic Naturopathic/Holistic
3513 N Lincoln Ave(between Ravenswood Ave & Cornelia Ave)
Chicago, IL 60657
Neighbourhood: Lakeview
(773) 807-5564
- Nearest Transit:
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Addison-brown (Brown Line)
Paulina (Brown Line)
Southport (Brown Line)
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
29 reviews for Ryan Lee Healing
29 reviews in English
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Review from Kelly H.
Chicago, IL
I'm Liz-Lemmon awkward about massages, and by the time I finally relax on the table the massage is just about done, but for some reason I thought I would give this Thai Bodywork business a try. I'm totally not big on all the zen, kumbaya scene, but thank you for showing me the light, fellow Yelpers, Thai bodywork, particularly with Ryan, is my new jam.
The entire experience was very unique, but Ryan was great about answering all the many, many questions I had before we began and then chatting with me afterwards about all the odd things he did. At times during the massage things were legit uncomfortable or downright weird (picture laying on your stomach, reaching behind you and grabbing on to someone as they try to bend you in half). At the end you just kind of lie there for awhile, and at first I was like "why am I paying to lay on the floor while someone creepily hangs out next to me transferring his energy to my spirit or whatever? I'd rather eat a cliff bar and watch HGTV for free," but then I almost fell asleep and ended the session feeling the most relaxed I ever have in my whole life, so I guess I'll drink that Kool-Aid. I was seriously sore the next day in that "I just did an hour-long session with Jillian Michaels and I hate my life but I feel awesome" kind of way, which was great. I have a chronic knot underneath my shoulder that no other massage therapist has been able to get at, but after an hour with Ryan, it was gone.
Moral: even if you've never tried Thai bodywork before, give Ryan a chance and you won't be disappointed. -
Review from Annette G.
Chicago, IL
I had a 45 minute reflexology session with Ryan Lee. It was a wonderful and spiritual experience that I will definately repeat. Not at all what I expected. It opened me up to release anger and tension. It opened me up to forgiveness, joy, gratitude and peace. Fantastic.
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Review from Amy H.
I have already sung the praises of Ryan and his Thai bodywork massage, but recently I went back to use my Yelp Deal for a 30 minute foot reflexology session and it was AMAZING!
I know that I put my feet through a lot, both as a runner and as a lover of high heeled shoes, but I didn't know how tense and stressed my feet were until Ryan went to work on them.
At first it was painful and my natural reaction was to resist against the way he was moving my feet, but it wasn't long until my entire body started to relax. The 30 minute session went by way to quickly and today (two days later) my feet still feel amazing and all of the pain that I was experiencing is gone.
This will be part of my regular routine.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/1/2010
I am no stranger to massage. I have reoccurring issues with my back, neck, and shoulders from being… Read more »
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11/1/2010
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Review from Jeka M.
Magic again. Reflexology and Thai body work are both amazing. Ryan radiates calm and it's a warm, inviting environment... the only update I can give is that I went back for more and the Thai body work is equally rejuvenating! I didn't even REALIZE my body was out of line in some ways until after.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/28/2011
Yesterday I cashed in on my Hot on Yelp deal for a reflexology foot massage! I'm innately curious… Read more »
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2/28/2011
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Review from Cassandra J.
Chicago, IL
I figured I was being pretty brave checking out this Thai massage craze before anyone I knew (in Chicago) had. My LA friends are like old school Thai massage addicts, might almost even be out of fashion there. Who knows; LA moves quick.
But yeah, Ryan isn't anything like my LA friends' stories of little Thai ladies climbing on them and pulling them around. He has an amazingly calming energy and after my first visit he totally sorted the shoulder pain I was having and left me feeling like a brand new girl. The next few weeks even my yoga practice felt stronger.
The second time I went was a week after having surgery and I swear he's the reason I healed in less than half the expected time. This time he did half the appointment as reflexology. I napped and snored a bit while he attended to my tootsies and when I woke up I felt centered and relaxed.
My first impression was "this is some next level shit" and I stand by it. The process is unique but what's really special is Ryan. Saving my pennies to go back ASAP. -
Review from Lisa A.
So I missed the $40 deal. But Ryan and his healing bare hands (and feet) worth more than that, so I don't mind paying full price.
I have had Thai Bodyworks once before, but Ryan has this soothing and calming aura that enhanced the whole experience. He is also very gentle -yet strong at the same time. (Confused? You have to experience it to believe it.) All I know that at the end of the session, my body was sooo relaxed, my knotted muscles were all loosen-up and stretched-out, and my mind was such in a peaceful state.
On top his great skills, the studio also has a very calming vibe. Very cozy and comforting.
The on-line booking cannot be any easier. I have just made my next appointment. Yep. He's that good. -
Review from Harpreet K.
Chicago, IL
I'm not gonna lie. I walked in here, took one look at Ryan - slender and slight- and thought, this poor kid has NO idea what he's in for. I'm twice his height and have been so tightly wound up for months that I've probably re-virginized myself. My muscles were pretty much hermetically sealed into tight coils of stress and I could not imagine being able to let go enough to get the full benefit of a Thai massage, which requires you to relax into various guided yoga poses, many of which = not cute.
RYAN TO THE RESCUE. THIS MAN IS AMAZING. Truly a healer in every sense of the word. He was perfectly professional and polite from the beginning, asking me how I felt and then listening patiently while I yammered away about things like "blocked chi" and clogged "energy meridians."
You know, the usual.
Ryan just took it all in, smiling serenely and sincerely, and welcomed me to his space. His studio is light and airy with exactly the kind of bougi-Buddhist decor that I feel comfortable in - bonsai's next to his iphone and a Buddha head perched up on an expensive sound system periodically belting out a calming "ommmmm." You know my San Francisco heart ate that shit up.
For $40 bones, Ryan spent nearly 2 HOURS guiding my limbs into a state of utter relaxation. He made me feel very present, alive, and aware of the strength inside of me. True Thai massage is one of the greatest healing arts I have ever encountered and Ryan is absolutely the BEST at what he does. I can't think of a better gift to give yourself or someone you love. Thank you, Barefoot Healer, for helping bring me back to my center. -
Review from Riley K.
Chicago, IL
Ryan's healing work is brilliantly intuitive. He has a rare ability to open himself and his clients to the highest healing available in any given moment.
I have received energy work, Thai bodywork, and foot reflexology from Ryan, and have always felt a deep relaxation and nourishment arise from his presence and touch.
One particularly powerful time, I experienced the benefit of his energetic healing from a distance. I was in my apartment, packing and preparing to move the following week. I was feeling completely overwhelmed and exhausted by the length of my "to-do" list, and I asked him to send me some Divine Heart Energy Healing. I laid down on my couch for about 7 minutes of distance healing, and when I opened my eyes again to the box-filled space around me, I felt light, calm, and filled with an unshakable sense of peace. All after 7 minutes. From a distance.
Wow. -
Review from Erin K.
Chicago, IL
You know how a weekend getaway is supposed to leave you feeling wonderfully relaxed, but you can never quite attain that feeling because you've gotten bogged down in the details of the trip? That's what I liken a typical massage like. I have pretty high expectations from massage therapists, but I've found they fall flat. There's always some element missing.
Ryan Joy does not give the atypical massage.
After a ninety minute session of Ryan's Thai bodywork and reflexology, I felt as if someone had packed my bags for me, plunked me down on a beach, and said, "Enjoy." It's hours later and I still feel great. I'm still breathing evenly and my muscles haven't felt this good since I can't remember when. I highly recommend Ryan. -
Review from Angie M.
Admittedly I was lured in to see Ryan Lee, alias The Barefoot Healer, after reading Colleen's stellar review. I love a good massage and the promise of a 90 minute Thai massage for $40 (while Ryan is working on his Thai Massage training program, so limited time only) was too good to pass up, especially since I've been killing my poor body with spin, kettlebell and Bikram yoga classes this week.
Ryan's space is a 2nd floor studio in what looks to be a residential apartment building, so don't be deterred when you don't see a storefront. When you get to the address you'll see a little Barefoot Healer card in the window, so you know you're at the right place. Just buzz him and you'll be let in and led up to his zen-like studio space complete with Pure Moods-esque music, great lighting and a huge, flat mattress type thing in the middle of the floor.
After discussing my sore spots, concerns, health and all the good stuff you hope a massage person would ask, we got down to business.
I've never had a Thai Massage, so even though I knew I would stay fully clothed (wear loose, light clothing so you have full range of motion) and would not be on a massage table (hence the flat mattress on the floor), I wasn't really sure what to expect. Turns out it is very different than your traditional Swedish or deep tissue massage. It's a lot of stretching, breathing, rubbing of muscles and what felt like some reflexology thrown in with the attention to certain pressure points on the body. No kneading and hot oil and the like with this massage. Actually, it didn't really feel like a massage... Thai Massage is more like an interactive stretching treatment. Ryan uses his whole body to move your body around and work your muscles. It's a very cool and VERY different massage experience.
The hardest thing for me was letting go and 'dead logging' it so Ryan could move my limbs around. I like control of my muscles, okay? But once I made a cognizant effort to relax it came pretty easily. I suspect I'll do even better in the next session. Ryan told me that it can make a person feel very vulnerable to totally let go of their muscles and relax. He's right. It's definitely something to work on, for me anyway!
I also can't say enough about Ryan. He's awesome! So professional, open and clearly dedicated to his craft. He made me feel comfortable immediately, which is obviously important when he's going to be working on your body for 90 minutes. We chatted after my massage for a bit about how I felt about the experience and how I can work on my flexibility on my own. He's amazing. And incredibly gifted. I couldn't imagine a person with a better disposition for massage therapy.
Appointments can be booked online. While Ryan prefers cash or a check, he does take plastic. Tip this guy well, everyone, he deserves it!Listed in: Stay Gorgeous, Chicago!
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Review from Cash M.
Chicago, IL
He is really fantastic. I have been getting massages for years and have been on a quest to find someone as good as my former favorite. I decided to try bodywork even though it wasnt necessarily what I was looking for. I didnt get the same kneaded feeling I usually love at the end, but I did feel completely comfortable and relaxed at the end. It was superb and I almost don't want to share him.
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Review from AJ F.
Roseville, CA
Woah...went here last night for a Thai massage. In college I studied abroad in Thailand and had many massages while I was there so I came into this with high expectations.
Ryan's massage blew my mind. I have had a rough few months and this was just what I needed. Unlike most massages this one had me feeling even better today-the day after-than even right after I left his studio. I will definitely be back to work with Ryan, he is so incredibly gifted. -
Review from Colleen C.
Chicago, IL
$40, 90-minute Thai Massage.
Yes, look again. You read it right. I'm sort of slapping myself virtually for even divulging, as I'd like to spend 1,000 minutes a week getting a Thai massage at The Barefoot Healer. Wouldn't that be a dream?
Why so cheap? Ryan is studying to be a licensed Thai massage therapist (already licensed in reflexology/shiatsu, etc), and this is all considered "practice." The good news is, he's PHENOMENAL. The 90 minutes flew right by...a relaxing 1.5 hours to myself. The world asleep. My muscles at the mercy of the leans and flow.
A Thai massage is a bit different in that you stay fully clothed (wear loose/light clothes similar to what you'd wear to yoga), and lie on a large padded mat (think futon cover, but thinner) as the therapist stretches your limbs and massages muscles. The real bonus? No waking up at the end of your session totally groggy with lines all over your face and drool running out your mouth. Much to the flipside...I frolicked out refreshed and full of energy. Win.
This is definitely a limited time thing, but OMG...$40 for 90 minutes!? Bliss, even in the short term. Or, of course...there's always the aforementioned foot massages, of which...I'll certainly be needing soon after all of these shoe purchases.
*Methods of payment: cash, check or credit. (prefers cash/check)
*Tip well for 90 minutes of work!
*Online scheduling is a BREEZE!
*Parking easy (meters).Listed in: Alternative Health.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/30/2010
A specialty foot rubber!? HUZZZZZZZAH!
Indeed, if you are jonesin' for a footrub and your significant… Read more »
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7/30/2010
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Review from Arden J.
Chicago, IL
I have had quite a few massages in the hopes of relieving stress and backpain but this is the first time I felt like I had been actually been helped. Ryan is truly a gifted healer.
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Review from Liv H.
Des Plaines, IL
Really friendly. Calming atmosphere. Foot reflexology was very relaxing, I think I almost fell asleep!
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Review from Kara B.
Chicago, IL
So I've been back to try out his Thai Massage and it is better than everyone describes. Much better.
Unfortunately prices go up significantly (they're still dirt cheap) on December 5th.
30 - 45 min will be $35
60 - 75 min will be $65
90- 120 min will be $95
Thai Body work is an experience not to be missed!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/8/2010
Since there are so many long reviews, I am going to keep this short and sweet. Ryan is an artist… Read more »
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11/8/2010
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Review from Iris F.
Chicago, IL
Got feet? There is no comparison...
So happy Ryan has his own sanctuary to share with those in desperate need of relaxation, stimulating and very healthful choice.
I'm still in shock that my second session, I feel asleep. Who does that in 30 minutes?
Worth the trip and time for you soothing the body and mind. I purchased a package which I can mix up from 30mins or 60 mins. -
Review from Erin T.
Chicago, IL
Ryan is amazing. I have issues with my back, so I've had plenty of body work done, but there is something extra great about Ryan. I agree with all the reviews that he's is not only really good at what he does, but he's got a great gentle/strong/soothing vibe that makes the whole experience not only therapeutic but pleasant and cool. I feel awesome for days after a session.
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Review from Tina M.
Chicago, IL
Ryan is great and his office, located on the 2nd floor of a residential building, is a nice little oasis of calm. I booked the yelp deal, which consisted of thai bodywork, sort of like assisted yoga. I layed on a floor mat and Ryan stretched out all my muscles. As other reviewers have mentioned he is much stronger than he looks! The stretches hurt at times, but just for a few seconds, and I received a nice neck massage at the end. By the time the session ended, I was SO relaxed and calm. Seriously I could have taken a nap right on the floor. Ryan gave me water and asked if I had any questions. He did not try to sell me anything. I commented to him that it was obvious he loves what he does. I can't wait to see him again for another session.
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Review from dee l.
Chicago, IL
Ryan was amazing. Already recommended him to friends. Can't wait to go back.
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Review from Tory w.
My world was officially rocked tonight.
Maybe in part due to the fact that there was a full moon and everything was a bit dreamy and surreal to begin with...
Nah, my world was rocked, and it was 100% Ryan.
I have to say I agree with Harpreet K., on first glance you wonder how such a slender human being could possibly have the strength to help someone like me (twice his size and then some). It's all in the hands, man.
I can't believe that after the Hot on Yelp deal there are not more reviews on here. I want to jump on the rooftops and sing the praises of all that is Barefoot Healer. I may be slightly high right now. I'm full of energy, wide awake, and my feet are tingling with happiness.
So, I went for the foot reflexology, which I have never done. Word to the wise - this is NOT a foot massage. While there is considerable rubbing involved, there were moments when it was actually painful - I suppose that's what that pressure point stuff is all about! Ryan spent a great deal of time both before and after the session discussing various things with me - health concerns, how to relax and let my mind wander, an explanation of reflexology - it was really great. I never felt rushed or like I was wasting his time with my silly questions and comments. He is patient and gives thoughtful answers, I suppose as a result of his meditation, unlike yours truly, a high school teacher, always ready with a sarcastic or mean comment for some poor unsuspecting teenager. Self-reflection, me? Not so much.
The space is warm, welcoming, and calming - requisite bonsais and groovy ocean breeze music included.
So I've decided - I have my mani-pedi ladies, I have my hair guy, and now, I do believe I have my foot guy. I can't wait to return and try the Thai massage.
I have nothing negative to say about the Barefoot Healer. He is truly a healer. And barefoot. -
Review from Ttoya H.
Chicago, IL
I have 9 screws & a plate in my right ankle from orif I received in 2009. Since then I've had problems with able mobility and tightness in my back. After my thai body work, my ankle feels almost like normal. If it weren't for the screws, I would be like new! I almost can't believe it. I could actually feel the blood flowing in my back.I'm getting the screws removed this friday and after that I plan to include the foot reflexology and thai body work with ryan as a part of my rehab. Just make sure you wear very comfy clothing and are a few minutes early.
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Review from Samantha L.
Chicago, IL
Best.massage.ever. Yes, I only went there for the reflexology. I stand by the statement, best massage ever. I had a full body massage a few weeks earlier elsewhere and it pales in comparison, and he only touched my feet!
This is the kind of thing that you feel in your whole body. At one point I felt like I was floating. Ryan does such a good job. First off, the massage room. There is a lot of attention to the details. The room is nice and warm, low lighting, a little seating area where Ryan does a proper consultation before he gets started and to give you some tea or water. I liked that he asked me if I had reflexology before, and then asked what I did or didn't like about my previous experience. I liked that. He also made me feel really comfortable with his demeanor. There is something sort of relaxed and soothing about him which I think transfers when you get the massage.
There was a combination of rubbing, stretching and pressure point. I loved every minute of it. He has you lie down on a proper massage table and offers an eye pillow which I thought was a nice touch. I have never understood the term "hurt so good." Mainly if something in a massage hurts I think it hurts but it is worth it for a greater good. With Ryan it actually "hurt so good." I get it now. He also really helped me focus on breathing during the massage, which also feels great.
I loved it so much that I made another appointment for next month, which I rarely do. I think that sessions with Ryan may become a part of my routine of things to do to promote overall health and wellness. I booked another reflexology session but might try the Thai massage on my third go round. -
Review from allana i.
Chicago, IL
After reading the wonderful reviews of "The Barefoot Healer" I had to try out this miracle worker for myself. I chose the 60min foot reflexology and thai blend combo. I was a bit uncertain of what to expect upon arriving at his cozy zen-like studio. After answering a few general questions about why I was there and what I would like to achieve, my session began. Ryan suggested we spend more time on the mat due to my many back issues. The next hour was amazing. The body work consisted of various stretches and compressions on troubled areas that I could never have treated on my own. The reflexology was interesting and although I don't know how effective it was, it is definitely something I suggest trying. If you are looking for a way to enhance your life physically and mentally then you should definitely visit Ryan Joy.
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Review from Jean P.
Chicago, IL
RYAN IS AMAZING!!! To call thai massage, "massage", is a bit of a misnomer. Yes, are relaxed and your muscles are massaged like in a "traditional" massage, but on a deeper, more spiritual level, your body is also freed to move and heal in ways that a "traditional" massage just does not allow. Ryan's gift is that he manages to move and relax your body, while simultaneously allowing you to heal and center yourself. The whole experience is pure bliss!!! I have never felt so refreshed, centered, and relaxed as after 30 minutes of thai bodywork with Ryan. He is so calm and thoughtful, and makes you feel comfortable and welcomed from the moment you arrive. I would recommend him to ANYONE looking to truly feel what complete, genuine relaxation and peace feels like!
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Review from Allen B.
Chicago, IL
......just want to add to my review how great Ryan's Thai Massage is!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/26/2010
I love reflexology, and I love, love, love the way Ryan does a treatment. The Barefoot Healer… Read more »
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9/26/2010
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Review from Nicole V.
I have a stressful job. Often I do not take the time to relax and de-stress...unwind if you will. After I made the appointment to have a reflexology session, I was not sure what to expect. I had only had one other session years ago and it consisted of a woman telling me how my different parts of my feet directly correlate to each organ of my body. Not an altogether awful experience, but I had higher hopes as I shook Ryan's hand upon entering The Barefoot Healer Wellness Studio. After being greeted by Ryan we had a chat regarding my current state (i.e. stressed out). He then helped me with some relaxation exercises and then we started the reflexology session. {As an aside; The surroundings were very calming and helped to put me in the right frame of mind to relax and enjoy.} Now on to the actual session, his hands are like magic. I almost felt as though there was healing happening via my feet. No dialogue about what part of the foot is connected to which organ...just pure relaxation and a cleansing of stress that I completely needed and enjoyed. Ryan is truly gifted in this art and I think he will be able to help many people through his technique. I have already recommended him to a number of friends. I suggest you give The Barefoot Healer a try too!
Listed in: Keeping up appearances
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Review from D A.
Los Angeles, CA
Ryan Joy is incredible.. Seriously, the man is gifted. I got a thai massage which is a lot of pulling and some areas depending on what you are dealing with in life are intense, but overall when I left I felt invigorated and great! I did this as a treat for my birthday, along with a foot reflexology appt. He has been doing this for over 9 years.. and he is really intuitive and his studio and nature is calming. I would definitely recommend him!
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Review from Paul P.
Chicago, IL
I bought & completed a "package deal 5, 1 hour sessions (or cumlative time) for $225. I found it to be very healthful & stimulating. After the first session It really moved things around in my body like in my colon.... I drank a lot of water (I always do anyway) and good thing, cause a cleansing did a happen just that 1st night. Wow... In each session, the "work" tested my senses a mix of pleasure and pain. It's not a gentle foot massage but a foot/body workout. I recomended it to my wife & anybody that believes in alternative therapies and may have any kind of health issue. I beleive in the idea of nerves in the foot relating to all the major parts & organs of the body. I suffer from a back injury & Between the work and "Kona Kava" Ryan Recommended I am feeling much better. I can't say how much, but I beleive the treatments have helped. I also Like Ryan's style, he's very knowagable & helpful explaining all about the process and what each point corressponds too, & he's generally easy to talk too about other things as well, when you you feel like it.
