Celebrating 25 Years in South Orange County
By Jody Robinson
There is a quietly beautiful book by Haruki Murakami titled What I Talk About When I Talk About Running.
On the surface, it appears to be about miles logged and roads traveled. In reality, it’s a meditation on discipline, intention, and the art of achieving results so seamless you barely notice the work behind them. It’s about process as much as outcome—and that same philosophy lives at the heart of The Massage Associates in San Juan Capistrano.
Michelle Bryant, owner and founder, understands the power of doing one thing exceptionally well. Born and raised in Southern California, Bryant earned her degree in Biology from UC San Diego before settling in Orange County. In February, she celebrates a milestone worth pausing for: the 25th anniversary of The Massage Associates. Since opening its doors in February 2001, the practice has quietly built a reputation not on trends or indulgence, but on trust, consistency, and results.
What began as a two-person operation has grown thoughtfully over time. “At the start, it was me and one other therapist,” says Michelle. “As our clientele expanded, so did our team.” Today, The Massage Associates is home to six highly skilled massage therapists specializing in deep tissue and therapeutic massage. But like Murakami writing about running while really writing about life, Bryant isn’t just talking about massage. She’s talking about relationships.
At The Massage Associates, massage is a vehicle for long-term wellness and community-based pain management. “The only way to help someone feel better is to truly know their needs,” Bryant says. “Once we understand that, we can tailor each session.” Detailed client notes ensure continuity of care, so even when a regular therapist isn’t available, the experience remains seamless, personal, and effective.
Unlike many wellness spaces that offer an extensive menu of spa services, The Massage Associates has chosen a singular focus. There are no facials or steam rooms here—just massage, done exceptionally well. Whether a client needs focused deep tissue work on tight shoulders, reflexology for tired feet, hot stones for relaxation, or targeted care with CBD cream for a lingering sports injury, each session is customized with intention. The philosophy is simple: specialize deeply, rather than broadly.
After 25 years, the true hallmark of The Massage Associates isn’t just longevity—it’s loyalty. Clients return not out of habit, but because they feel seen, heard, and cared for. The work is disciplined, deliberate, and deeply human. Like Murakami’s miles on the road, the effort is steady and often unseen—but the results are undeniable.
An end to pain, and the thoughtful work that gets you there. That’s what The Massage Associates has been offering South Orange County for a quarter of a century.
