Benefits of Seated Workplace Massage for Employers

Maybe you've seen them at festivals or shopping malls - those happy recipients of seated massage. Are you one of those who immediately thinks, "What's the point." After all it isn't like they are deeply relaxed in a spa in the mountains somewhere. Why would anyone bother with a 20-minute seated massage? Actually, there are a few good reasons why. Employers especially should take note and consider having this done at their workplace.

When I was a massage therapist, one of my first jobs was doing seated massage on workers at an auto factory and later on lab technicians in a hospital. The main thing these people in different working environments had in common was development of repetitive use problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome and neck pain.

Another workplace hazard is the lack of ergonomically correct work stations. While refitting out work areas that would be perfect for everyone would be a smart thing to do, this isn't always a realistic option across the board for every work station.

Listed below are the top benefits for seated massage in the workplace:

• Saves money: That may seem counterintuitive, but think about it. Preventing injury through massage saves the boss money on medical insurance premiums and employee sick days. Having the massage therapist educate your employees on repetitive use injuries may also result in them changing the way they do their work by paying more attention to things like posture and ergonomics. Employees might even be willing to pay for sessions themselves if you aren't able to. The average seated massage session is between 15-20 minutes. Prices vary, but they are usually lower than the standard one-hour table massage.
• Boosts morale: Employees like it when their employers understand what their work day entails. Even if you are thinking about the savings you could gain by hiring a massage professional, they will appreciate that you really know what they do day in and day out, and this will help gain their respect.
• Decreases stress: If employees are in less pain and more relaxed, the entire organization benefits. Productivity increases, the amount of sick days taken decreases, and communication is less strained. Stress is also known to lead to other health problems such as hypertension. Who doesn't want a more peaceful work atmosphere?

Will providing seated massage make you a millionaire overnight? Probably not. If you're still not convinced, hire a massage therapist for a holiday party or other special event and see how well it goes over. You might just be surprised at the positive feedback you get from your employees and how soon you reap the benefits if you then go on to provide this regularly.

To find a seated massage practitioner, check your local phone book or do an internet search for salons and doctors in your area that provide the service. You can also check the websites of professional massage therapy organizations such as the American Massage Therapy Association or the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals for a listing of massage providers.