Massage techniques in the office

One of the best ways to improve employee morale, increase productivity, and improve job satisfaction is to help reduce stress that arises from the workplace environment. This article will address several massage techniques that can be used within the workplace and the benefits of providing them.

Several corporations have begun to include massage as a perk to the job. Massage can take on several forms.

• Massage chairs. These can be provided in a quiet / calm room within the office.They can be used by employees during their breaks, lunch times or before and after work. They provide a place to stop and interrupt the demanding nature of the job.
• Some places might even provide the Velcro or strap on massage chairs that are portable in nature to be placed directly on your own chair. These are great for that quick break. Turn it on while still working.
• Full table massages. Some companies provide you the opportunity to take advantage of full table massages. These can be done at the office or the company may send you to a specific spa location for one. Usually if they are done within the office they are done fully clothed. Nobody has to undress, and if they really don't want their hair messed up, they just have ask the massage therapist not to massage their head. The massage is usually given in a public space and is very conservative.
• Chair massages. These are done by licensed therapists that provide a special kneeling chair that you can sit in as they massage your back, neck and head. These can be done in any place and take minimal set up and take down.

The benefits of providing massages within the workplace are as follows. It increases employee morale, lowers stress, increases productivity, decreases overuse injuries, provides some high-touch to counterbalance high-tech environments. A large volume of research has been done that identifies the positive correlation of physical touch to positive attitudes. It helps in reducing muscular tension that can result in long term pain and discomfort if not addressed. It helps in providing better self-esteem, research results have shown that self-esteem can be tied to one's ability to cope with high stress levels. Massage can also provide individuals with a few moments of peace and quiet to allow for reflection and introspection. Employees who receive this extra benefit are more likely to feel grateful and be more responsible.

So a question naturally arises from this, who pays for it? Well there are several different ways it can be handled within the business. Some corporations build it into their cost structure that is reflected as part of their incentive packages. Other companies provide the services but require employees to pay for it themselves. Or in some instances business have allowed employees to set up a collective pool that everyone pays into. The company may even contribute a certain percentage as well. Most would agree that the benefits certainly outweigh the costs. Many massage therapists exist that will provide special corporate pricing.

One of the concerns that may come up with this technique is the situation of personal comfort / harassment. Businesses need to make sure that employees aren't providing massages to other employees. They should always employ the services of a licensed massage therapist. Employees should be aware that the service is voluntary and that the professionals will only perform certain types of techniques to reduce stress.

Providing massage in the workplace is a positive and forward thinking idea that many companies are beginning to embrace. Employers are realizing that the happier the employee the more productive the employee is. A positive work environment produces better success.

More Employee Health and Fitness Articles:

• The cost of unhealthy employees
• The cost of sick employees
• The cost of getting your employees gym memberships
• The benefits of encouraging employees to work out
• Simple changes to make in the office to improve employee health
• Reducing employee absenteeism
• Popular wellness programs
• Plans to improve employee health
• On-site employee fitness centers
• Office "Biggest Loser" challenges, why they work and how to set one up