Why I No Longer Take Male Clients (and What That Really Means)

When I first started my massage practice, I accepted clients of all genders. I genuinely wanted to help as many people as possible through bodywork. At my core, I believe that everyone deserves access to care. Gender or sexuality does not change that.

Over time, I began to notice a pattern. Not everyone, but enough experiences where my work was misunderstood or approached with the wrong intention. In some cases, there were expectations that went beyond the scope of professional massage, including requests or implications of inappropriate services.

Massage, for me, is about healing, calming the nervous system, and creating a safe and respectful space for the body to unwind. When that intention is not respected, it can shift the entire session environment. Because of this, I decided to primarily work with women and couples and to take male clients by referral. This helps me maintain a space where I feel safe, focused, and able to fully show up for my work.

That being said, I am not completely closed off. If a male client genuinely needs bodywork, communicates respectfully, and the interaction feels safe, I am open to working together.

If you are reaching out for an appointment, I ask that you take a moment to introduce yourself, communicate clearly, and share what you are looking for and why you are seeking bodywork. This helps me understand your intention and decide if we are a good fit. Based on that, I may accept your appointment.

This is not about assuming anything about all men. It is about setting boundaries based on my experiences, while still leaving room for trust and mutual respect.

Creating a safe and grounded environment allows me to show up fully, and that ultimately benefits every client I work with.

Introduction

I was born in Japan and raised in New York, growing up between two cultures that continue to shape how I connect with people. I’m bilingual in Japanese and English, and I value clear, thoughtful communication in both my personal life and my work.

I later spent over 10 years living and working in Japan before eventually relocating to Hawaii, where I now work as a mobile massage therapist.

While I’ve been practicing massage for about two years, my relationship with the body began much earlier through yoga. I’ve been practicing Ashtanga yoga for over five years, and it has become an essential part of my life. My days begin early…Every day I wake up at 4:15 am, on my mat by 6 am, staying on for about 1.5 to 2 hours. It’s a commitment that keeps me grounded and deeply connected to my body.

Through yoga, I’ve learned that the body responds not to force, but to consistency, awareness, and care. This philosophy naturally carries into my massage work.

My approach is holistic. I believe the body has an innate ability to heal when it’s supported in the right way. Especially in the U.S., where accessing healthcare can often feel overwhelming, I believe it’s important to build a deeper understanding of your own body and take care of it in a way that feels sustainable and empowering.

My intention is to create a space where clients can slow down, reconnect, and feel safe in their bodies.

On a more personal note, I’m a twin and a dog mom. I’m also an INFP and a Taurus, which in many ways reflects how I move through life…deeply intuitive, values-driven, and passionate about helping others, while also being grounded and, at times, a bit stubborn. That balance is what allows me to stay true to my values and the way I approach my work.

Above all, I value genuineness. It’s something I bring into every interaction and every session!