Maria Santoro, LMT

Maria is a licensed massage therapist, movement therapist, and herbalist in New York City. Her approach is to provide treatment integrating both Western and Eastern techniques, specific to each individual’s physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well being.

She holds a degree in massage therapy from the Swedish Institute in New York City. She is trained in Swedish, Ohashi Touch, Shiatsu, Thai, Reiki, Reflexology, Cranio-Sacral, myofascial release, structural integration, medical, sports, and deep tissue massage, and Active Release Technique (ART). Some of her respected teachers are John Barnes, Dr. Michael Leahy, and Shiatsu master Ohashi.

While living abroad in Asia, Maria studied Thai massage at Wat Pho School of Thai Massage in Bangkok and Medical Thai Massage with Nipha Sangkhwai.

She completed advanced studies in physical anthropology, movement science, and rehabilitation. She provides therapy for neurological disorders in hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, and assisted living facilities.

Maria completed two years of plant medicine at The Gaia School of Healing in Vermont. She integrates herbalism into her practice.

Maria is a NADA (National Acupuncture Detoxification Association) practitioner, providing ear acupuncture, beads, and seeds for addiction, stress, and trauma. She volunteers at NYHRE, a harm reduction based program in East Harlem.

While living in Korea, Maria earned a 1st Dan Black Belt in Taekwondo. She is also a dedicated yoga practitioner, studying Iyengar yoga in Pune, India, and holds a certificate from ISTHA (Integrated Science of Hatha, Tantra and Ayurveda) in New York City.

In addition to her passion for bodywork, movement, and herbal studies, Maria is a Japanese Zen Buddhism practitioner. Her devotion to her practice has allowed her to deepen her insight and mindfulness, allowing her to embrace each person she encounters with compassionate care.