An interview with David from Soothing Kneads Massage Therapy

19th May 2026 Bryce Quartz

The infamous bear masseur of Torremolinos speaks with us about his body positive approach, following his dreams, and more!

David’s path into massage therapy has been quite the transformative journey for him where he’s addressed his own challenges and come to embrace the parts of himself he once sought to change, mend, or eliminate. Through his work as a masseur, his main mission is to create a safe space and body positive environment that helps everyone he works with to feel comfortable in their bodies.

Through discovering the power of treating himself with gentle affection instead of criticizing his own perceived imperfections, he’s been able to view humanity with a more nurturing and empathetic spirit. In turn, this has helped him make every experience he provides ease any and all tension in those who may have been hesitant in the past to seek massage therapy for themselves.

With his own experiences that brought him into the world of massage therapy combined with traditional Swedish massage techniques, he provides sessions that are both therapeutic and tender. Easing tension and stress while fostering a more compassionate connection with your own body is exactly what we could all use, and David gives every client just that!

I had the privilege of chatting with David about his journey into becoming a masseur and more, check it out below!

Bryce Quartz: Hey there, David! Thanks for taking the time to speak with me today. How have you been doing lately?

David: Hey Bryce, I’ve been doing pretty awesome, thanks! After 30 years, I quit the rat race of London and sold everything I owned, and set myself up here in sunny Torremolinos on Spain’s Costa del Sol along with my husband and my dog. That was last November, and it really has been a dream come true, so I’m very happy and content!

Bryce: You have such an amazing story and I’m excited to learn more about you. You’ve been a masseur for quite a while now. Can you tell us how you got started as a massage therapist?

David: The seed was planted in my mind many years ago when I met a masseur at a post club chill out. I had a really engaging conversation about his work and the world of massage. Alas, this was the late 90’s and the idea of becoming a massage therapist seemed out of reach for someone like me.

Fast forward about 25 years when we were all in the post pandemic era. I found myself very unhappy in my stable and reasonably well-paid job within London’s public transport system. Over 20 years of unfulfilling, soul-destroying work took it’s toll and for my own sanity I needed to find a new direction in which to steer my life. This is when I revisited the idea of becoming a massage therapist.

I started off doing a 6-week introductory course just to test the waters and then I went on to do the Diploma. After qualifying, I started my massage journey which has taken me to some awesome places and meeting some awesome people.

Bryce: I’ve only ever had a massage once in my life, and it was such a rewarding and peaceful experience. Can you share with us what a massage experience is like from you?

David: A massage experience with me is designed to be tranquil, soothing, and restorative. I have a nice massage studio that has a calming ambiance created by subdued lighting, invocative aromas, and soothing music. These things help promote a relaxing atmosphere and invites you to let go of your tension.

Throughout the session, you can expect both a soothing touch that promotes deep relaxation and peace with added deep pressure techniques to release adhesions and breakdown stubborn knots. I also use aromatherapy infusions, which add another layer of serenity, engaging another sense to help promote restfulness.

Each massage is tailored to the client. My aim is give you a massage that will ensure your needs are met and allow you to escape your stresses and soothe your strains.

Bryce: With body positivity being a heavy focus in your work and following that last question, what would you say sets you apart from other massage therapists?

David: For sure, body positivity is the cornerstone on which I have built my reputation. Providing a compassionate touch in a safe space for everyone no matter body shape, condition, or size was vitally important to me. But I think a common theme within feedback from clients is that I take the time to find out from them what it is they need or hope to gain from their massage.

Every massage starts with a consultation where I ask clients about themselves, any issues they have and their preferences, things that they like and things that they dislike. All of this helps me tailor the massage to meet the clients’ needs.

Whilst pre-set massage routines can be a pleasant experience, finding out more about your client really helps deliver focused intentional touch. I feel this helps you connect with your client and gives them a better massage experience.

Bryce: Many people in the bear community feel hesitant when choosing the right masseur because everyone’s body size is different and not every masseur advertises as being body positive. What would you say to those who may feel that hesitancy to ease their mind and demystify any misconceptions about receiving a massage?

David: Hangups about your body type or condition is probably one of the biggest barriers that stops people from enjoying the wonderful benefits of massage. If you are reading this now and are thinking that you’d love to book a massage but you can’t because of X, Y or Z? Then you are exactly the person I want to see walk through my door.

One of my favourite things that was ever said to me during a client consultation was “I’ve not had a massage for 25 years because I always thought I was too big, but I really liked what you had to say so I took the plunge and booked with you.” This was music to my ears. Common concerns are typically “am I too big? Am I too thin? Am I too hairy?” and The answer is no, no, and no.

Other common concerns are skin complaints like acne and psoriasis, which again, these things shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a massage. You are safe with me. I’ll be sensitive to your concerns and treat you with respect and compassion.

There is also one other big barrier that prevent a lot of men booking a massage, and if you don’t mind, I’d like to take this opportunity to address it. Men are often concerned that they might get an erection during a massage! It’s true, you might, but it’s a common occurrence and it’s perfectly natural and it’s totally okay. In a respectful environment, there’s no need to feel awkward or embarrassed about it. Massage can be a sensual experience, so if during your massage, you react in that way, then just enjoy that energy! And lets face it, I’m literally pushing blood around your body, it’s got to go somewhere.

Bryce: I feel that everyone should experience a massage at least once in their life. Can you share with us a few reasons and benefits as to why someone should book a massage?

David: There are a lot activities that promote relaxation, self care, and personal wellbeing, but massage uniquely allows you to switch off, zone out, and truly focus on yourself. It’s the ultimate in “me time.”

A good massage session actively works out physical tension and stress. It helps soothe away aches and pains you may have. It provides a tangible release of tight and tense muscles in your body. This not only alleviates discomfort but a good massage can also provide a profound experience for your mind, body, and soul. It’s a time to disconnect from the outside world and deeply reconnect with yourself, enhancing your overall sense of wellbeing. It is a portion of time and an experience that is truly just for you!

Bryce: You’ve been to all kinds of events and places providing a comfortable safe space for so many people to receive your services. Can you tell us about some of the places you’ve traveled to and events you’ve been a part of as a masseur?

David: Top of my list is the bear carnival in Gran Canaria as I’m their official masseur. It’s an insanely busy 10 days for me but I absolutely love it. I’ve been the in-house masseur at the awesome Camp Bear Hug retreats in Portugal and I’ve even done a massage workshop in New York City for “Coach Cub.” You’ll also usually catch me at the hugely famous Bear Sitges Week too.

Bryce: Do you have any future events or places you plan to be at in the future? I want to see you and book you for a massage!

David: For sure, anytime our paths cross I’ll book you in for a massage! This year I will be attending the bear weekend in Cologne in November and Frosty Bear Weekend in Vienna in December. I’d love to go the bear week in Reykjavik so hopefully I can make that happen. This year I missed out on the Bear Feile in Dublin so that is also on my list of destinations. I’ll be at Beef Dip in January so maybe I’ll do a few massages while I’m there too.

But of course I’m based in Torremolinos so you should plan a trip here. It’s a wonderful place with a great scene and fantastic community. We have a big bear week in August and this year Torremolinos is hosting it’s first Daddy week which is being run by the guys behind the Daddies Torremolinos group.

And also, this is a bit of news scoop for you; I’m taking the role of weekend resident masseur at Eden Beach Club here in Torremolinons. It’s the premier LGBT+ adults only venue on the Costa Del Sol so I’m thrilled about that.

Bryce: This next question is one of my all time favorites to ask literally everyone… What are some of your favorite foods, dishes, or restaurants?

David: I’m obsessed with the mandarin oranges here in Spain. They are the most sweetest and juiciest mandarins I’ve ever tasted. Their season is now coming to an end and I’m actually sad about it. But the good news is that cherry season is about to start.

My husband is Italian and he makes the best lasagne but his Mama makes the best spaghetti alle vongole. My favourite restaurant is a place here in Torremolinos called Casero. It’s a Spanish & Middle Eastern fusion restaurant. Everything is homemade. The chef is from Amman in Jordan and his food is so delicious.

Bryce: Outside of being a masseur, what are some of your interests and hobbies?

David: Since starting my new life here in Spain I’ve started to bake Irish breads that are just impossible to get here like wheaten bread, soda farls, and potato farls! Yum, Yum!

I’m actually taking more of an interest in cooking these days and I’m drawn to lots of cuisine from Northern Ireland which is where I’m from. It’s all nostalgic comfort foods.

Bryce: Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me! Is there anything you’d like to leave our readers with today?

David: It’s been an absolute pleasure, thank you so much. Yes, I’d like all your readers to look at themselves in the mirror and say “I love you and I’m going to treat you with love and kindness.”

Oh, also treat yourself and book a massage!

And one last thing, follow me on Instagram to see where I’ve been and where the future will take me. My instagram handle is @Soothing_kneads