Why You Should Get a Chair Massage

Maybe you've heard of chair massage, or even seen someone getting one at the airport or the natural food store where you shop. But you've always been able to find an excuse-er, reason-not to get one yourself. Well, here are answers to some of those reasons.

"I can't afford it."
Depending on where you're located, a chair massage may cost as little as $5-which is very easy on the budget. You may even be able to get a free one at a street fair or the opening of a new massage-related business, like a day spa.

"I don't have time."
Chair massage prices are usually based on the length of the massage, so a shorter massage will not only cost less, but also take less time. The shortest chair massage is about five minutes, and the longest is usually 30 minutes.

"I'd get a table massage, but I really don't need much massage work. My back, neck, and shoulders are the only places that ever bother me."
You're in luck, then! Chair massage was designed specifically to treat those areas, which just happen to be where most people have problems.

The massage therapist can also treat the arms and hands, and even do a scalp massage, in a chair. It's harder to get to the legs and feet, but some massage chairs do allow for different positioning so that those areas can also be worked on.

"I don't want to take off my clothes."
The big reason why it's possible to offer chair massage in public places is because the person getting the massage keeps their clothes on.

"A chair massage can't really do me any good, can it?"
The massage therapist develops techniques that work well over clothes, and with the client in a seated position. So it is possible to successfully treat problem areas during a chair massage.

Chair massage sessions are shorter than those done on a massage table. If you have chronic muscle tension it may take longer to resolve these issues if you're getting only chair massage. But if you can get chair massage more frequently than you would get a table massage, it may be just as helpful. More frequent sessions may also help your body deal more effectively with everyday stress, so that it doesn't affect you as severely-or for as long.

"It's not convenient for me. There are no massage places near where I live or work."
Have the massage therapist come to you, then! Massage chairs are designed to be portable because they're meant to go "on-site."

Consider on-site chair massage for your workplace, especially if you're a business owner or supervisor and would like to have an "Employee Appreciation Day." Chair massage is also great for all kinds of special events, especially home parties, whether they're holiday-related or hosted by someone who's selling something similar (like skin care products).

Keep chair massage in mind, too, if you or someone you know is celebrating a birthday or other anniversary, or just as an occasional treat. Many businesses that offer chair massage also sell gift certificates. They're a great way to show someone-or even yourself-how much you appreciate them.