About
Seated Massage
Are
your employees overstressed?
From
manufacturers to hospitals to auto dealerships,
companies across the country are using seated massage services to make work
literally less of a pain in the neck for employees. Seated massage
provides hard-working employees with a convenient method of alleviating the
stress inherent in these competitive times.
Slouching at
a desk for prolonged periods often results in lower back pain. Repetitive
motion injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, are common among office
workers. A 10-to20-minute "stress-buster" massage relieves
tension in neck, back and shoulder muscles, reducing irritability and increasing
productivity.
Convenience
Seated
massage is performed in the workplace. Your employees will be seated
upright on a special massage chair and will remain fully clothed. No oils
are used, so there is no need for them to be concerned about stains on
clothing. The session generally lasts from 10 to 20 minutes. The
chair is lightweight and portable, enabling it to be set up in virtually any
office or break room.
Benefits
Studies by
the Touch Research Institute in Florida show that
the benefits of seated massage have quick results. Immediately after
massage sessions, the subjects experienced a change in brain waves in the
direction of heightened alertness and better performance on math problems
(completed in less time with fewer errors).
At the end
of the five week study period, subjects reported reduced job stress and elevated
moods. This was in addition to the usual benefits of massage, relief of
muscular tension, revitalized energy and a stronger immune system.
The study's
findings are significant in that the International Labour Organization states in
its 1993 World Labour Report that job stress costs the U.S. economy $200 billion
annually through diminished productivity, compensation claims, absenteeism,
health insurance and direct medical expenses.
Techniques
Used
Seated
massage utilizes acupressure and Swedish massage to relieve tension.
Though beginning at a slower pace, the work moves a little faster as the
practitioner proceeds. The session ends with quick, revitalizing strokes
in order to bring the client back to a state of full consciousness.
Safety
The
practitioner will demonstrate the procedure for getting on and off the massage
chair for those not familiar with its use. Positioning is very important
and the practitioner should check regularly throughout the session to be sure
the client's alignment remains correct.
