Mbodi - St. Matthews Studio

Overview

MBODI Louisville is a specialized mindful bodywork studio offering somatic bodywork, trauma-informed massage therapy, and complementary wellness experiences like sauna sessions and group somatic events. Unlike traditional spas, it focuses on nervous system regulation, embodied rest, and holistic healing for busy movers, shakers, givers, and doers dealing with chronic stress, burnout, and dysregulation.

• Overall atmosphere and experience: Clients describe it as a serene and tranquil oasis, grounded, alive, and beautiful—a nervous system-friendly sanctuary that promotes deep relaxation, safety, and reconnection to the body. The space emphasizes reliable, embodied rest, with barefoot techniques, trauma-aware practices, and a non-sexual, person-centered approach that educates and empowers.

Features & Amenities

• Sauna: Available for use before or after bodywork to enhance relaxation, warm tissues, and extend parasympathetic states; complimentary post-sauna Citrus Cleanse spray provided (no showers on-site).
• Treatment rooms: Private spaces with windows for ventilation, GermGuardian air filters (UV + HEPA), and EPA-approved sanitization between sessions.
• Studio lobby and Sanctuary: Upstairs area for small-group events like sound baths (max 6 people); mindful transitions encouraged with 15-30 min early arrival for settling in.
• Additional amenities: Herbal teas, essential oil towels, online intake forms, and retail products (20% off with gift card purchases during events).
• Safety protocols: Optional masks (recommended for unvaccinated), 30-45 min breaks between sessions, clean air/surfaces, and transparent risk-reduction practices.

Services

• Introductory somatic bodywork sessions: Tailored trauma-informed massage using techniques like barefoot bodywork, myofascial release, and Sarga Bodywork for rest, healing, and resilience.
• R&R Subscriptions: Regular bodywork plans (e.g., every 2-4 weeks) for ongoing support; popular among long-term clients since 2015.
• Heat therapy: 20-min add-on with bodywork sessions.
• Group events: RETUNE Sound Baths (immersive rest with cacao and instruments), ‘Body-Mindset’ Somatic Workshops (mindfulness + small-group bodywork), and seasonal gatherings.
• Somatic Experiencing (SE): Body-based trauma healing focusing on sensations, regulation, titration, and pendulation; complements talk therapy.
• Holistic touch: Head, face, neck, back, arms, legs, abdomen, glutes, feet (no genitals or breast tissue); client consent emphasized.

Pricing

• ‘Body-Mindset’ Seasonal Somatic Workshop: $79 per person (limited to 5 spots).
• RETUNE Sound Bath: Pricing via Vagaro booking (not specified in content).
• Bodywork sessions and subscriptions: Payment required at booking for new clients; full charge for <24-hour cancellations. Gift cards and retail discounts during events (e.g., 20% off retail with gift card purchase). Specific session rates not listed—book online for details.

Location & Hours

• Location: 121 South Sherrin Avenue, Louisville, KY 40207 (tiny studio; by appointment only, no walk-ins).
• Operating hours: By reservation only; online booking up to 4 hours in advance (text/call for last-minute). Studio responsive 9am-6pm; events like workshops (e.g., 4-6pm Saturdays) and sound baths (6-8pm Fridays).

Notes

• What makes this sauna/bodywork studio special: Trauma-informed and somatic-focused, distinguishing it from standard massages—emphasizes nervous system healing over ‘treat yo-self’ luxury. Sustainable model: Therapists have 10+ years experience, with fair pay and low burnout (vs. industry 5-year average). Client testimonials highlight personalized, educational care (e.g., TMJ relief, stress management). Committed to non-sexual boundaries, transparency, and embodiment practices. Weekly newsletter offers somatic tips for rest without retreats. Ideal for leaders, creatives, caregivers seeking bottom-up healing beyond talk therapy.