Massage in the Workplace is a firm fixture on many of our client’s workplace wellbeing agenda. Sorely missed during the pandemic, it’s safe to say office massage is back in business. Massage is hailed as one of the ultimate work perks that never fails to draw people to the office that day. So much so, that massage in the workplace has become a fortnightly or monthly fixture for many of our clients.
Few people require much convincing to down tools and enjoy a massage. But if they do, here are 5 reasons why massage is your secret weapon to boost productivity and morale at work.
Massage in the Workplace can Reduce Anxiety
A study compared participants who had a 15 minute chair massage versus those who just relaxed in a chair for that time. Results showed a significant improvement in brain performance and reduction in anxiety for those who’d a massage.
With 58% of employees experiencing anxiety (and only 9% of those seeking mental health support), any initiatives that can help reduce anxiety at work are essential. Although office massage alone isn’t the answer to the anxiety epidemic of 2022, it’s proven to be an effective supporting act alongside other workplace wellbeing initiatives.
Regular Office Massage can Improve Mood and Sleep
A 2021 article by business magazine, Forbes shared several studies proving massage can reset circadian rhythms. Having balanced, in-tune circadian rhythms leads to improved mood, better sleep and more energy. Poor sleepers are twice as likely to struggle with productivity and 3 times more likely to struggle to concentrate (source). So, employees can do with all the help they can get to reset and improve their sleep patterns.
The article went on to celebrate the of benefits of massage for employees to offset job stress:
“Job stress can lead to absenteeism and impaired work engagement and productivity. The relief from a licensed massage therapist soothes aches and pains and calms the mind and body. And has been shown to assuage the negative consequences of job stress.”
Massage in the Workplace can Increase Job Satisfaction
A 2000 study found that employees receiving a massage at work maintained their job satisfaction. Whereas those not receiving massage had a decrease in job satisfaction.
In a culture of ‘quiet quitting’ and estimates that 20% of workers plan to quit in 2022, businesses must pull out all the stops in a bid to increase job satisfaction. By offering office massage, organisations are proving to staff that time for self-care and to de-stress is a business priority.
Office Massage yields the best results for relaxation in the shortest time frame
With the average office massage 15 minutes in duration, massage in the workplace packs a punch for the time-poor. After just 15 minutes in a massage chair, employees return to their desks more energised and productive. Whilst we’re also firm advocates of a 60 minute yoga class or 45 minute HIIT class, there’s no denying the ROI of wellbeing benefits on a quick 15 minute office massage.
Chair Massage Targets Desk-Bound Aches and Pains
Back, neck and shoulder pain accounts for 84% of work-related musculoskeletal absences. Thankfully our office massages focus on ironing out tension in the neck, shoulders and upper back. These are the areas which frequently feel the strain of computer and desk-bound work. Our massage clients return to their desk feeling much more free and mobile around the neck and shoulders and far less likely to hunch and slump at their desks. Regular massage and posture awareness will help avoid even more aches and pains.
To find out more about Massage in the Workplace and to join other organisations such as British Airways and Rolls Royce who have enjoyed office massage with Stretching the City, click here.
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